Chapter 358 Compensation Matters
Bella didn't dwell on past grievances. She simply stated the amount needed for compensation and presented the receipt for the door from the original renovation as evidence.
"Here's the receipt for the door from the renovation. Take a look," Bella said, handing the receipt to the mediator, who then passed it to Charlotte's parents.
Charlotte's parents took the receipt and examined it carefully. Their expressions grew serious as they realized the gravity of the situation.
"Ms. Grey, Charlotte knows she messed up. Could you maybe..." Charlotte's father began to plead, but Bella cut him off.
"I get how you feel, but what's done is done. We need a fair solution."
Bella's tone was firm yet gentle. "I've made it clear. The amount needed for compensation is as stated. If you have any objections, we can discuss them, but please don't try to dodge responsibility."
Charlotte's father looked at Charlotte, then at Bella, and finally nodded. "Alright, Ms. Grey, we agree to the compensation. We hope you won't trouble Charlotte anymore."
Bella smiled slightly. "Don't worry, I won't. As long as the matter is resolved, we can all get along peacefully."
But Charlotte's mother snatched the receipt and started shouting, "What kind of door costs over ten thousand dollars? That's a scam! It's just paint! I can get someone to clean it for you. Over ten thousand dollars, you're definitely trying to rip us off!"
Bella replied calmly, "You might not be familiar with the cost of renovation materials and craftsmanship. This door is made of special materials and has a unique design, which we carefully selected. It did cost over ten thousand dollars during the renovation. The receipt is right here; you can take a closer look."
Charlotte's mother clearly didn't bother to look closely and continued, "I'll only pay for the cleaning costs, not a penny more."
At this point, the mediator stepped in, trying to calm the dispute. "Ladies, please calm down. We're here to solve the problem, not to argue. I suggest we follow legal procedures and have professionals assess the door's value, then negotiate the compensation based on the assessment."
Bella sighed silently. Like mother, like daughter. Charlotte's temper was indeed a mirror image of her mother's.
Under police pressure, Charlotte's side eventually agreed to compensate Bella for the full amount.
Though Charlotte's mother continued to mutter and curse as she left, Bella ignored her unreasonable behavior.
Bella knew that engaging with such people would only drag her into deeper trouble. She chose to remain silent, quickening her pace as she left the mediation room, feeling relieved that the dispute was finally resolved.
In the afternoon, Isadora had to bring her three-year-old daughter to her shop temporarily due to a lack of childcare at home.
The little girl was an adorable little sprite, with delicate features that seemed like they could be squeezed to produce water. She wore a pink jacket, looking especially playful and cute.
Her big, blinking eyes seemed to hold endless secrets, like a starry sky hidden within. Every time she blinked, it felt like she was sending a mysterious and enchanting signal to the world around her.
The customers in the shop were also captivated by the little girl, with some even approaching to play with her. The little one was not shy at all, always responding to everyone's enthusiasm with a cheerful smile.
Bella looked at the adorable little girl in Isadora's arms, her eyes filled with affection. She smiled at Isadora and said, "Isadora, you must have saved the entire galaxy in your past life to have such a cute daughter. What's her name? She's just so lovable."
Isadora gazed at her daughter with loving eyes and gently replied, "Her full name is Nova Ramirez, but we call her Novi."
Bella thought the name was both cute and meaningful. She couldn't help but play with Novi a bit more, and Novi seemed to sense Bella's kindness, giving her a sweet smile.
Bella then sincerely said to Isadora, "Isadora, Novi is just too adorable. If you ever have trouble at home, feel free to bring Novi to the shop. She's always welcome here, and it won't interfere with the business."
Bella certainly hoped to see the cute Novi every day.
Isadora felt warm inside, knowing Bella was a kind person who genuinely liked Novi. She gratefully nodded, "Thank you so much, Bella. Sometimes I really can't be with Novi all the time, and having her here would put my mind at ease."
Then she casually added, "You should have a daughter too. You're so beautiful; your child would definitely be gorgeous."
However, Bella's smile suddenly froze. She struggled to speak, "I can't have children."
Isadora was surprised and quickly asked, "Why?"
Bella took a deep breath, trying to calm her emotions. She spoke softly, "I had some health issues before that caused damage, and now I can't get pregnant."
Isadora felt a surge of sympathy and understanding. She held Bella's hand tightly and gently said, "Bella, don't be sad. Even if you can't have children, it doesn't mean your life lacks meaning. Everyone has their unique value and mission. Your existence is beautiful in itself."
Bella looked at Isadora gratefully, her eyes glistening with tears. She whispered, "Thank you. I need to get back to work."
Isadora sighed helplessly. Such a wonderful girl, why is life so unfair?
As time passed, the days at the dessert shop became increasingly peaceful and pleasant, thanks to Sterling's secret recipes. The business was booming, far exceeding Bella's expectations, and the costs were recouped ahead of schedule.
These high-end desserts were offered at affordable prices, naturally attracting a steady stream of customers.
To better manage the shop, Bella established strict working hours. This way, she and Anna no longer had to work late into the night, giving them more time to rest.
As April arrived, the city's temperature gradually rose, the sun becoming hotter. People switched to light short sleeves, enjoying the warmth of late spring and early summer.
However, occasional rain showers brought a touch of coolness, reminding everyone to keep a jacket handy for the changing weather.
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