Chapter 414 Peaceful Years
"Look, Mrs. Penrose, you can't just make accusations like that. We've got security cameras all over the store, and you can check them anytime. This is Isadora's first day off in ages; she's always here working hard. Trust me, she's dedicated. And the work here isn't as tough as you might think. Sure, it gets busy, but there are plenty of slow times too. Isadora loves her job and always leaves in a good mood, not exhausted and miserable."
"Isadora often brings her kid to the store. She's super attentive to her child's needs and education, so she's definitely not neglecting them. If there's nothing else, I'll get back to work. Feel free to look around."
Felicity clearly wasn't used to being challenged. Hearing Bella's words, she flew into a rage, slamming her hand down on the counter with a loud bang that made the nearby dishes rattle.
Isadora's mother-in-law's eyes widened, and she shrieked, "Get your boss out here! I refuse to believe there's no one with common sense around here!"
Bella's smile finally faded, her gaze turning firm and calm. She said coolly, "Mrs. Penrose, I am the owner here, and I've made things very clear. Isadora's salary is her personal business, and we can't disclose it to you. Moreover, her work performance has always been excellent, and we all see that. I hope you can respect her privacy and our store's policies."
Felicity was taken aback for a moment, then rolled her eyes, full of disdain and anger. She seemed unable to believe that the young woman in front of her was the owner of the dessert shop, muttering, "You, a boss? I doubt this place will stay open for long!"
With that, she stormed out, throwing a few more glares back at Bella.
Bella watched Felicity's retreating figure, shaking her head lightly, feeling a mix of helplessness and sadness.
Serafina curiously leaned in, whispering to Bella, "That's Isadora's mother-in-law? I never would have guessed. They're so different! Isadora is so young and carefree, while this lady looks like she lives a very meticulous life. She seems tough to deal with. Isadora must have a hard time at home."
Bella listened to Serafina's comments, smiling wryly before saying, "You're still a kid, only seeing things on the surface. When you look for a husband, make sure to choose wisely. Otherwise, if you end up with a difficult mother-in-law, you'll be exhausted and miserable for life."
Serafina stuck out her tongue, making a funny face and giggling, "Got it, Bella. I'll be careful. But seriously, Isadora is really unlucky to have such a mother-in-law."
Bella sighed softly, her eyes showing a hint of sympathy. "It's their family business, and we can't say much. I just hope Isadora can stay strong and handle these family issues well. Life goes on, after all."
Suddenly, a delivery order popped up on the computer screen. Bella glanced at it, her eyes widening slightly.
The order was for Sterling's company, and it included his usual favorites: desserts and American coffee. Though the order didn't specify his name or phone number, Bella had a pretty good idea who it was for.
Bella printed the order and turned to Serafina, instructing, "Serafina, can you watch the register for me? I need to head to the kitchen to prepare this." With that, she hurried into the kitchen.
Despite Bella's efforts to stay calm, anything related to Sterling always made her anxious. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, and began preparing the desserts and coffee.
In the kitchen, Bella skillfully handled the tools, creating exquisite desserts and rich coffee. Her movements were quick and precise, but her eyes revealed a subtle fatigue and helplessness.
Finally, everything was ready. Bella packed the items and handed them to Serafina, then quietly returned to the register.
Serafina noticed Bella's distracted look and gently patted her shoulder, "Bella, you okay? You look really tired."
Bella forced a smile, "I'm fine, just a bit worn out. Don't worry, I'll be okay after a little rest."
Serafina took care of the delivery, so Bella didn't have to go herself. She stood behind the register, her gaze softly sweeping over the bustling store, where every customer's face was filled with satisfaction and happiness.
This peaceful scene strengthened Bella's resolve to stay here and not return to Harborvale.
Thinking of the promise she made to Anna and Isadora, Bella felt a surge of determination. She had vowed to them that no matter what the future held, she wouldn't abandon them and would always be there, facing life's ups and downs together in this warm little shop.
That evening, the store closed earlier than usual. Serafina and another employee had already left, leaving Bella alone in the dim light, quietly sorting through the accounts.
Time ticked by, and Bella finally finished the accounts. She looked out the window, realizing the night was deep, the streetlights dim, and the surroundings silent. A sense of unease crept in, as the walk home wasn't too long but not short either. Taking a cab felt wasteful, but walking made her nervous.
Bella took a deep breath, mustering the courage to close the store. Without looking back, she hurriedly started her journey home. The cool night breeze tousled her hair as she quickened her pace, trying to dispel her fear.
On the way, Bella frequently glanced back, worried about any suspicious figures following her.
But each time she turned, she saw only empty streets and swaying tree shadows. She continued forward, her determined steps reminding herself to be brave.
When she finally pushed open her front door and closed it behind her, she let out a soft sigh, the sound of her inner tension releasing.
Bella leaned against the door, closed her eyes, and took a deep breath, feeling the warmth and safety of home. All her fears and anxieties melted away in that moment.
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