Faux Vows, True Desires novel Chapter 31

Stefan was a unique dude. He was super particular about the ladies, and even his grandparents couldn't force him to marry a girl he didn’t fancy. He was only going to tie the knot with a woman he truly loved.

"Easy there, Holt. This is my business."

Even though Stefan was still grinning, Holt got the hint and changed the subject as soon as those words left Stefan's mouth.

"I gotta split."

Stefan gathered several bags with evening dresses, bid Holt farewell, and then took off.

Holt watched as Stefan hopped on his bike and pedaled away.

Stefan made a beeline for Serendipity Cafe. It was a busy afternoon at Serendipity. Lucinda, her business partner, and their staff were busting their asses.

When Lucinda saw Stefan walk in, she greeted him with a smile, "Stefan, I'm slammed right now. Grab a seat and let me know what you want. I'll have someone whip it up for you."

After taking in the scene, Stefan walked up to the counter and set the bags down. He said to Lucinda who came over, "Lucinda, I've hired some evening dresses. About that thing you promised..."

"I'll keep my promise, Stefan. Where did you get these dresses?"

Lucinda pulled out a dress, mesmerized by its beauty, and hastily put it back in the bag, worried she might dirty it. "When I get a chance, I'll head back to my apartment and try them on."

"A friend of mine runs a clothing store, and he's got evening dresses. I got a few from him. When you get a chance, try them on. If they fit, change into one and wait for me at your door at seven. I'll pick you up for the business cocktail party."

"Sure thing." Lucinda agreed quickly. They needed to help each other out.

Stefan locked eyes with her. His look softened and she couldn't read him. "Lucinda, I gotta head back to work."

"Okay."

Lucinda packed the dresses away and prepared a box of pastries for Stefan. "Stefan, I've tried these pastries and they're scrumptious. They're the best we've got. Take them back to your office and give them a try. Let your coworkers try them too. If they like them, they can come here for a bite."

If Lucinda knew her boyfriend was the CEO of Ascend Global, she wouldn't have said or done that.

"Thanks."

Stefan wasn't much of a sweets guy. But since they were from his girlfriend, he would give them a go.

"We don't need to be so formal," Stefan said, laughing. He pulled out a tissue and wiped the sweat off Lucinda's forehead.

It was scorching hot and she was already sweating, having just been a few minutes away from of the AC.