Page 46 of The Rebel Billionaire

“Delivery for you, ma’am.”

I take the box he’s holding out.

“Thank you.”

“Have a good evening,” he says, walking away.

Closing the door, I reattach the chain before placing the box on the table.

I slide a knife through the packing tape, biting my lip as I stare down into the box. Inside are unwaxed lemons, unsalted butter, eggs, self-raising flour, baking powder, sugar, a carton of milk, along with a note.

Dear Brooke,

Thought this would give you something to do over the weekend.

I’ve included the lemon drizzle cake recipe belonging to my amazing cook, Mrs Transmere.

She said to call if you have any questions. I’ve included her number.

Happy baking.

Kris.

I smile at his thoughtfulness.

ME:

Thank you.

KRIS:

You’re welcome. Try not to burn down the apartment building.

ME:

Oh, ye of little faith.

I unpack the ingredients, putting away those that need refrigerating.

At least I won’t be bored this weekend. I’ll now be baking, as well as playing catch-up.

With Callie out of the office, I didn’t want to risk another scheduling incident. So, I double-checked every task I carried out this afternoon.

After seeing Sue, I spent an hour with Monty, the cafeteria manager. We discussed the menu and previous events they’d catered for. I learned who to go to in future to get budgets approved, although I copied Alessandro into the correspondence as he requested. By the time I left, each department manager had messaged to say they would arrange a whip-round for anyone who wants to contribute to Callie’s leaving gift.

I spent the rest of the afternoon arranging for all the reports and presentations Alessandro wanted to be printed and ready for Monday.

I return to the sofa and pull my feet up under me, a large mug of tea in hand. I’m normally a coffee drinker, but today, I need a taste of home. Dragging the throw I’d had delivered over my knees, I open my laptop and search for local stores selling baby gifts.

Holy shit, there are a lot of them.

Two hours later, my eyes are fluttering shut, but I’ve bookmarked a list of potential gift items I know Callie will love. Gift-giving has always been one of my favourite pastimes.

Dragging myself into the bedroom, I face-plant on the bed. Week one complete!

My only consolation is that Callie seems to have a life, so clearly once I’m up to speed, things will calm down.

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