Page 5 of The Promise Born
“That really depends on how many you would like.”
“Enough to last me a month.” Asante lifted his chin. “I want to have these every day.”
“They don't really set well for more than a day. It's why I make them fresh each day.”
“I understand. So, if I want more, I have to come back every day?”
“That is impossible.” Domin fussed.
The prince paused, a thoughtful frown creasing his brow as he considered his next move. Again, he looked different; his eyes held a newfound intensity, and his posture was more confident.
“I’m sorry if he offended you earlier.” His words shocked me as he referred to the man whose name I now knew was Domin.
“It’s fine.” I shrugged. “You're used to getting what you want. He probably is, too. And all the women out there want you, so you’re probably not used to coming across a woman who would deny you.”
“I have to ask you. Would you really deny my request?” Asante narrowed his gaze.
“To be your fiancé? Why wouldn’t I? You know nothing about me.” I scoffed. “Also, I hear how the elders talk about you.”
“Oh? How do they talk about me?” He looked amused. “Do I have a terrible reputation?”
“Yes, you do.” I said honestly and glanced at Domin, who looked displeased at my answer. “I know it's not right for me to say this to your face, considering your position. But you asked, and I am an honest person.”
“Your honesty comes sharp like a blade.” He dusted the sugar from his fingertips. “But it's good to know. That’s a shame. I suppose I should work to repair that.”
“It couldn’t hurt.” I agreed with him.
“Would it change your mind?” He looked me in the eye. “If I work to fix my reputation, would you be open to my request?”
I considered his question, knowing full well the life he led wasn’t one I wanted to be a part of. “No, it wouldn’t change my mind.”
“You seem sure of that.” Asante quickly glanced at the helpers who lined the store before returning his eyes to me. For a moment, it looked like I had embarrassed him.
“I am.” I adjusted the apron around my waist. “What you're offering isn't something I want. So, no matter how much you improve yourself or what actions you take to fix your reputation, it won't change that. But I'd be happy to see you repair the thoughts of the old ones.”
“Very well.” He looked around. “I’ll take everything.”
“What do you mean?” I asked.
“Everything you have, I’ll take it.” He waved at the display cases.
“Oh, I can’t do that.” I refused his offer. “That wouldn’t be fair to my other customers. I have regulars who rely on me.”
“Interesting.” He sighed. “Well, give me what you can. Domin will pay you for everything.”
I nodded and turned to bag up the items I could spare, leaving a few of the goods I knew my regulars would come in looking for. Like the buttery breads that Calli came for every night. She loved to have them with her soups. She would hold it against me if she couldn’t get at least two of them. I pretended not to hear their hushed whispers and muttered complaints while I focused on my work.
“Why can’t you just order her to come with us?” Domin fussed. “If you want her so badly, just make it happen. You’re the prince.”
“I don’t want to make anyone do something they don’t want to do. Besides, you know my mother. She will recognize the deception easily. Gather the sweets, pay her, and let's go.”
“As you wish.”
Asante turned to leave the shop, leaving just Domin and one other woman behind. When I finished bagging the goods, the woman took the bags, Domin paid me, and they left. The second he was out the door, I covered my mouth with my hands and screamed into my palms.
“I hope you never return!” I fussed and stomped back over to the counter.
Chapter 3
