Page 12 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

I roll my eyes, but I can't help smiling a little. "It wasn't like that, Soph. I was just trying to be thorough."

"Uh-huh, sure," she says, clearly not buying it. "So what made it weird then? Did he confess his undying love for your garlic pizza crust?"

And just like that, my smile's gone. "We were talking when suddenly there was this scream from somewhere nearby. Mr. Anderson just... changed. He got all intense and pushed me back, told me to stay and not open the door for anyone but him, then he ran off."

Sophie's jaw drops like I just told her pigs can fly. "No way! What did you do?"

"I decided not to stick around even if he told me to stay put. Who does he think he is? He can’t just boss me around like that. And I was scared.” I admit, feeling that knot of worry tighten in my gut again. "I tried calling his office this morning, but they said he hasn't come in yet. And there's nothing on the news or online about any kind of incident."

"That is weird," Sophie agrees, her forehead all scrunched up. "Do you think someone was hurt? Do you think he's okay?"

I shrug, feeling about as useful as a chocolate teapot. "I don't know. You should have seen his face, Soph. He looked... scared. And Mr. Anderson doesn't seem like the type to scare easily."

Sophie's about to say something else when a customer raps on the serving window. We exchange a look—this conversation isn't over—before slipping into our usual routine.

The morning rush keeps us hopping, but my mind keeps drifting back to Axel. Where is he? Is he all right? And what in the world happened yesterday?

I'm just finishing up a fresh batch of garlic bread when I spot Gio Rossi, owner of the sleek "Rossi's Risotto" truck, sauntering over like he's God's gift to Italian cuisine.

Great. Just what I need today.

I plaster on a smile as he leans against my window, all gleaming teeth and calculating eyes. "Lila, darling," he purrs, "Have you had any more trouble with the health inspector? Such a shame, truly."

I bristle at his tone, but I keep my voice level. "Thanks for your concern, Gio, but we're handling it."

"Of course, of course." He waves a dismissive hand. "I'm sure you'll have everything up to code in no time. Though, it must be difficult, running this old clunker all on your own."

My grip tightens on the serving spoon. If I'm not careful, I might bend it. "I manage just fine, thanks."

"Oh, I don't doubt it." His smile turns predatory. "But you know, if you ever need any advice or support, my door is always open."

I fight the urge to scoff. Like I'd ever take business tips or want to get close to a snake like Gio. "That's very generous of you," I say through gritted teeth, "but I've got it covered."

He leans in closer, his cologne so strong I'm pretty sure it's melting my nose hairs. "Just remember, Lila, this is a cutthroat industry. One wrong move and," he snaps his fingers, "poof, you're yesterday's news."

My blood's boiling, but I refuse to give him the satisfaction of a reaction. "I'll keep that in mind."

"You do that." He straightens, smoothing his designer shirt. "Well, I should get back to my adoring customers. Ciao, bella."

With a final smirk, he saunters away, leaving me seething in his wake.

"What was that all about?" Sophie asks, poking her head out from the back.

I shake my head, still glaring at Gio's retreating form. "Just Gio being his usual charming self."

"Ugh, that guy." Sophie wrinkles her nose. "He's so slimy, I bet he leaves a trail."

I snort out a laugh, feeling some of the tension ease from my shoulders. "Probably. But what I don't get is why he's suddenly so interested in my business."

Sophie shrugs. "Maybe he sees you as a threat."

I raise an eyebrow. "Me? A threat to Gio Rossi?"

"Think about it, Lil. You're the only other Italian truck on this block. And your pizza is way better than his panini sandwiches."

I mull that over as I start prepping for the dinner crowd. Could Sophie be right? Could Gio actually be worried about little old me stealing his customers?

"You know what, Soph?" I say, reaching for a pot. "I think it's time we reminded everyone why they love our pizza so much."

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