Chapter 10 - The Real Estate Empire and the Baker’s HeartThree months later.
The morning sun streamed through the wide glass windows of Ellison & Vale Artisan Bakery on Clover Street.
The storefront was unrecognizable from its old, rundown days. The cracked brick facade had been restored to historic perfection, the interior expanded with gleaming copper counters, state-of-the-art French ovens, and a line of customers wrapping all the way down the block, eager for her famous salted caramel tarts.
Mara stood behind the main counter, wearing her favorite flour-dusted apron, sliding a fresh tray of pastries into the display case.
The bell above the door chimed.
She looked up, expecting her morning rush of regulars. Instead, a tall man in a sharply tailored charcoal suit walked in, carrying a single, flawless red rose.
Kieran Vale walked past the bustling line of customers, completely unfazed by the murmurs of recognition from the morning crowd. He stopped in front of the counter, placing the rose right next to the cash register.
"Ninety days are up, Miss Ellison," Kieran said, his dark eyes sparkling with quiet amusement. "The legal counsel has the final paperwork ready. The bakery is officially yours, free and clear of all debt, with a nationwide distribution deal attached."
Mara wiped her hands on her apron, leaning against the counter with a calm, radiant smile.
"And the fake engagement?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.
Kieran reached across the counter, taking her flour-dust-covered hand in his, intertwining his fingers with hers.
May you like
"Voided," Kieran murmured softly, stepping through the service door into the private kitchen behind the counter, pulling her flush against his chest in full view of her cheering customers. "Because I have no intention of letting my wife walk away."
The bakery erupted into applause and cheers as Kieran pulled Mara into a deep, decisive kiss that sealed the most unexpected, dramatic, and fiercely won love story in Chicago.
