Page 47 of Falling for the CEO

"Hannah's Place."

"Never heard of them."

"It’s on Boylston Street. My employer used to have offices here. I haven’t been to Hannah’s Place in a while.”

"Look, I've got to call Grandmother, okay? Can I talk with you later?"

"Sure." My stomach sank a bit. I liked hearing his voice. I hoped we’d chat a while longer. After he hung up, I noticed I had a few messages from Mom. Mostly emojis and pics of a cat. I sent her a few heart and kiss emojis. Mom loved sending me stuff like this.

I’d only taken a few steps when I heard a door open.

"Hey, you wanted to get inside?" a female voice asked.

I turned around. It was the same sales associate who’d said sorry before.

"Yes," I said, completely shocked now, wondering why the change of heart.

"Come on in. I've still got a few goodies left."

"Thanks."

I was giddy. When I stepped inside, she said, "I didn't manage to get everything put away. Tell me, what do you want?"

"How come you let me in? I thought you were closing."

She shrugged. "I got a phone call from a guy named Spencer Whitley who gave me a very romantic pitch about keeping this place open for you."

My jaw dropped. My heart grew in size. A wave of happiness swept me up.

"Between you and me, I think the guy is trying to get in your pants."

I threw my head back, laughing. I was sure he was, and I was going to let him very soon.

"So, what do you want?"

"Let's see." I glanced at all the goodies. “I’ve always loved your scones."

"You do look vaguely familiar."

I smiled. "I used to work around here."

I especially liked the ones with cherry, orange, and strawberry. After glancing at the prices, I decided to rein in my cravings.

"I'll just have one scone today, please.”

She looked up, perplexed.

“Funds are a bit tight," I explained.

"Sure. Which one do you want?"

"Strawberry, please. You don't need to pack it. I'll eat it right away."

"Here you go."

After paying, I immediately bit into my scone. I finished it before I even stepped out of the bakery. I’d forgotten how good they were. I should’ve splurged a bit, but honestly, I wanted to build up my nest egg more than I wanted to indulge in scones. I hurried to the subway station and arrived home twenty minutes later. I didn't even bother going inside Taylor’s house. I went straight to Spencer’s and knocked on the door. I heard slow footsteps, which meant Jeannie was still here. Then she opened the door.

"Hi, Penny darling. Goodness, I hope I didn't ruin your plans."

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