Chapter 1 - The Flour Explosion
Inside Honey & Rye Bakery, the warm air was usually filled with the comforting scents of toasted butter, fresh cinnamon, and warm sugar. Glass pastry display cases gleamed under soft amber lighting, showcasing tiers of golden croissants, fruit tarts, and frosted cakes.
Suddenly, the bell above the door chimed, shattering the peaceful morning quiet.
Clare Bennett stood behind the counter in her white puffed-sleeve top and blue floral apron, her dark wavy hair tied back neatly with a blue bow. Her chest heaved with quiet rage as Roman Duca stepped into her shop.
Roman was a towering, muscular figure in a dark charcoal patterned suit, his dark hair neatly cut, intricate ink creeping up his neck and covering the backs of his hands. Behind him stood his elegant aunt, Sophia, wearing a sharp black blazer and pearl earrings, watching the scene unfold with an amused smirk.
Without warning, Clare grabbed a five-pound paper bag of white baking flour from the counter.
She hurled the paper bag directly at Roman’s chest! The bag burst open on impact, sending a massive white cloud exploding across his custom charcoal suit, powdering his dark hair, lapels, and expensive leather shoes.
Aunt Sophia gasped softly in genuine shock, stepping back toward the glass display cases.
“Maybe now you’ll finally understand what no means!” Clare declared in a furious, sharp tone, her hands trembling as white powder settled over the counter.
Roman didn't flinch. He stood motionless in the center of the bakery, slowly looking down at his ruined suit and flour-covered shoes without losing his cold composure.
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“You’re terrible at negotiating,” Roman said in a calm, low voice.
👉 Clare pointed a flour-covered finger straight at his chest, her posture stiff with defiance as the secret behind his relentless visits began to surface.
