Faux Vows, True Desires

Stefan was a unique dude. He was super particular about the ladies, and even his grandparents couldn't force him to marry a girl he didn't fancy. He was only going to tie the knot with a woman he truly loved. "Easy there, Holt. This is my business."

Even though Stefan was still grinning, Holt got the hint and changed the subject as soon as those words left Stefan's mouth.

"I gotta split."

Stefan gathered several bags with evening dresses, bid Holt farewell, and then took off.

Holt watched as Stefan hopped on his bike and pedaled away.

Stefan made a beeline for Serendipity Cafe. It was a busy afternoon at Serendipity. Lucinda, her business partner, and their staff were busting their asses.

When Lucinda saw Stefan walk in, she greeted him with a smile, "Stefan, I'm slammed right now. Grab a seat and let me know what you want. I'll have someone whip it up for you."

After taking in the scene, Stefan walked up to the counter and set the bags down. He said to Lucinda who came over, "Lucinda, I've hired some evening dresses. About that thing you promised..." "I'll keep my promise, Stefan. Where did you get these dresses?"

Lucinda pulled out a dress, mesmerized by its beauty, and hastily put it back in the bag, worried she might dirty it. "When I get a chance, I'll head back to my apartment and try them on."

"A friend of mine runs a clothing store, and he's got evening dresses. I got a few from him. When you get a chance, try them on. If they fit, change into one and wait for me at your door at seven. I'll pick you up for the business cocktail party."

agreed quickly. They needed to

and she couldn't read him. "Lucinda, I gotta

"Okay."

the dresses away and prepared a box of pastries for Stefan. "Stefan, I've tried these pastries and they're scrumptious. They're the best we've got. Take them back to your office and give them a try. Let your coworkers try them too. If they like them, they can come here for a

was the CEO of Ascend Global, she

"Thanks."

But since they

don't need to be so formal," Stefan said, laughing. He pulled out a

was scorching hot and she was already sweating, having just been a

at the handsome man in front of her and feeling his gentle touch, Lucinda's heart started racing. By the time she came back to her senses, Stefan had pocketed his hand, taken the box of pastries, bid her

of the shop, watching Stefan until he disappeared from sight. Just as she was about to turn around and go back inside, she saw George. George had been standing next to her without her noticing. She

two putting on a show the other day? He can't have much money just zipping around on a bike. I bet you're still single and still seeing

girl. Being her boyfriend was a stroke

his vanity, thought it was because she couldn't forget him. After all, he was the only boyfriend Lucinda

pursue Lucinda, no matter how excellent or beautiful she was. The only reason he was able to be Lucinda's boyfriend was because she

me the broom."

what she was doing, grabbed a broom, and handed it to Lucinda. After glancing at George, Cecilia yelled out to her friend, "Give