11.12
Chapter 100
“They should be upstairs. Your dad’s up there too.”
“Okay.”
“Mom, why don’t you take a break? Lethelp 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
the layout was tidy and inviting. All the old décor had been torn down and replaced with something much more
fitting for a breakfast place.
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 tto linger over breakfast.
The kitchen was separated by clear glass, 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 Stella that Max beat up that guy from the Lanes for you. | didn’t expect you 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 t| go, it’s so awkward!” Justin's voice rose with
feigned indignation.
“If you're so embarrassed, why do you still go every day?” Alessia shot him a withering look, not bothering to
hide her annoyance.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt
“Well, it’s not like | have a choice. You girls insisted on hiring a male singer, and
now Stella’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
14.16 11:03
“Don’t worry. He's not really Stella’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 clammed up as soon as Alessia shot him a warning glare.
“If you have so much tto hover around, why not do something useful instead of running your mouth all day?
If you really push Stella's buttons, I'm going to back her up-no questions asked.” Alessia made her position clear.
“Yeah, yeah, | get it.”
“So, how much longer until the place is done?”
“We're almost there. Should be finished by next Wednesday.”
“Faster than | 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,
glancing 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 accept 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 thingsynectough?”
Aessiaeplied Stietly. The content is
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chapter there!
People in their situation—she'd seen
so many of them, ridin high engday,
ESI the Ninlichs ending
up-ddbbing on their knees, begging
for a miracle. The The content is on
novelenglish.net! Read the latest
chapter there!
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.”
2/3
14:46
Chapter 100
“Got it.”
With business wrapped up, Justin left
in high spirits. The group finished
tidying up, and the Qe" them (1)
neafediiomel6ae er, chatting and
latighing. For Alessia, it was a rare,
genuine moment of warmth—one
that left a real smile lingering on her
face. The content is on
novelenglish.net! Read the latest
chapter there!
14:46