e watcAlessia woke from a dreamless sleep, sat up in bed, and pulled back the curtains. Shhed the quiet street outside for a moment, lost in thought. Eventually, she picked up her phone to check the time–9:30 a.m.

Just as she was about to set the phone down, it buzzed with an incoming call.

“Hello?” Alessia’s voice was soft and a bit husky with sleep, carrying a lilting note that sounded almost playful.

On the other end, Cole fumbled his pen, dropping it noisily on his desk. His ears flushed pink, and the tough tone he’d planned evaporated in an instant.

“You just woke up?” His voice was low, tinged with exasperation, but something about it made Alessia want to curl back under the covers.

“Mmm.” She answered lazily, eyes half–closed.

“So that’s it? I help you out and then you ignore my messages? Is Miss Morton really that busy?” He sounded more like a big dog left out in the rain than an aggrieved executive.

“I was busy talking things over last night. By the time we finished, it was nearly morning, so I just crashed.” Alessia yawned, not bothering to hide it.

Cole frowned. “Anything serious going on?”

“Nothing major. Oh, I need to head to Mr. Dawson’s place the afternoon after tomorrow, and I’ll be taking Zachary.”

“The old man’s going to complain you only call on him when you need something,” Cole said with a sly grin.

tapped her nose and didn’t deny

the way, I’ll send you a list later. Can you drop the stuff

errand boy. Is this what I am to you–a delivery guy, at your beck and

drill. Opening day got

fine. Your order will be delivered within the hour, madam. Please remember to sign for

tossed a half–hearted insult his way, and hung up, feeling more awake

1/2

15.36

a fresh cup of coffee; even

and wandered into the kitchen,

then popped a piece

with anticipation, though she seemed

nodded. “Perfect. Not dry, not tough–just

a piece of seaweed roll and offered

up, and she happily accepted

at the market this morning–your dad and I went early. I had a chat with the vendor, and they’ll give us a better bulk price from now on.” Karen looked proud, clearly pleased with Alessia’s

said, nodding. “By the way,

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