Chapter 375

Madison

“He’s persistent,” Ellie observed once he’d left. “Kind of sweet, actually.”

“Kind of annoying,” I countered, wiping down the espresso machine.

“He’s successful, good-looking, clearly interested.” She waggled her eyebrows. “Could be worse.”

“Could be better too.”

***

The café settled into its mid-morning lull. A few customers trickled in and out, but nothing demanding. I used the quiet time to prep for lunch, checking inventory and planning tomorrow’s specials.

I reorganized the pastry case, restocked the cream and sugar station, and wiped down already-clean tables.

Anything to keep my hands busy and my mind off yesterday.

Off Alexander showing up after years like it was nothing. Off the way, my traitorous heart had stuttered when I saw him standing on the sidewalk. Off the fact that part of me had wanted to throw myself into his arms, while another part wanted to throw my coffee in his face.

“Boss?” Mark’s v