11.12
“They should be upstairs. Your dad’s up there too.”
“Okay.”
“Mom, why don’t you take a break? Let me help you out.”
Alessia climbed the stairs, catching snatches of conversation between mother and son drifting up behind her.
She didn’t rush to find Justin right away. Instead, she took a moment to look around the shop. It wasn’t huge, but theyout was tidy and inviting. All the old décor had been torn down and reced with something much more fitting for a breakfast ce.
The ground floor was open, with a big front window–perfect for customers who wanted to eat in or just grab something to go. Upstairs, they’d set up a cozy dining area for those who had time to linger over breakfast.
The kitchen was separated by clear ss, so customers could see their food being prepared. It was a thoughtful touch, catering to both the Mortons‘ habits and the needs of their clientele. Every little detail seemed just right.
“Well, what do you think, princess?” Justin called, grinning.
“I’d say three hundred grand was put to good use.”
“Of course! I’m worth every penny.” Justin swept a hand through his hair.
“I heard from Ste that Max beat up that guy from the Lanes for you. I didn’t expect <i>you </i>to press charges against him when he didn’t even report you guys.”
“Word travels fast, huh?”
“Couldn’t you just open a men’s section at your bar? Every time I go, it’s so awkward!” Justin’s <i>voice </i>rose with feigned indignation.
“If you’re <i>so </i>embarrassed, why do you still go every day?” Alessia shot him a withering look, not bothering to hide her annoyance.
“Well, it’s not like I have a choice. You girls insisted on hiring a male singer, and
now Ste’s basically glued to him, acting like he’s a gold mine.” Justin’s grumbling was tinged with resentment.
“Watch your mouth. That’s my brother you’re talking about.”
Justin rubbed his nose, wisely dropping the subject.
110
<b>14.16 </b>11:03
“Don’t worry. He’s not really Ste’s type. Besides, he’s only performing tomorrow–then he’s done.”
“Yeah, and after him, there’ll be another Liam, or a Lee Liam, or a Chen Liam…” Justin muttered under his breath, but mmed up as soon as Alessia shot him a warning re.
“If you have so much time to hover around, why not do something useful instead of running your mouth all day? If you really push Ste’s buttons, I’m going to back her up–no questions asked.” Alessia made her position clear.
“Yeah, yeah, I get it.”
“So, how much longer until the ce is done?”
“We’re almost there. Should be finished by next Wednesday.”
“Faster than I expected.”
“That’s what happens when the money’s good–things get done quick. But honestly, Alessia, you could just give the Mortons a better life outright. Why drag it out like this?” Justin shook his head, clearly baffled by her approach, though he respected her decision.
“The Mortons aren’t like that. They’d rather work for what they have than take a handout.” Alessia paused, ncing downstairs. She could see Mr. Morton and his son hauling supplies, while Karen wiped down the counter with focused care.
“And?” Justin followed her gaze.
“And if they ever did just ept the money… well, I’d have to think twice about helping them at all.”
“Still obsessed with pride, huh?”
“Is it really so bad to hold onto your pride, even when things get tough?” Alessia replied quietly.
People in their situation–she’d seen so many of them, riding high one day, crashing down the next, some ending up sobbing on their knees, begging for a miracle. The
Mortons were different.
Justin finally understood and nodded. “Alright, let’s call it a day.”
“Yeah. Thanks for your help.”
“Oh, by the way, Max is leaving tonight. No idea why York decided to stay behind, though.”
14:46
“Got it.”
With business wrapped up, Justin left in high spirits. The group finished tidying up, and the four of them headed home together, chatting andughing. For Alessia, it was a rare, genuine moment of warmth–one that left a real smile lingering on her face.
14:46