meeting

Aliana has become more cautious ever since her little girl's encounter with a customer at the bakery. Ava safely left in the care of her nanny Amanda for the weekend. She arrived at work dressed in a simple yet elegant two-piece skirt ensemble in a soft pastel shade, complemented by comfortable strap sandals that allowed her to move swiftly around the bustling kitchen. Her accessories were minimal yet tasteful—a pair of stud earrings glinting in the warm light and a delicate pendant necklace resting against her collarbone.

Aliana's brown, flowing hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail, framing her face in a way that accentuated her gentle features. Her light blue eyes, often described as warm and inviting, sparkled with a mix of determination and genuine hospitality as she interacted with her staff and customers.

She greeted each customer with a welcoming smile, her posture relaxed yet attentive. Her hands moved with practiced efficiency as she handled orders, her gestures fluid and precise.

Amidst the flurry of activity, Aliana's focus zeroed in on Ms. Ophilia's order—an important task that she intended to personally oversee. This upcoming wedding was more than just a business transaction to Aliana; it was an opportunity to showcase her culinary skills again.

After ensuring that all bakery operations were running smoothly, Aliana left for the wedding venue, her anticipation growing with each step. As she arrived, her demeanor shifted slightly to one of professional authority. She engaged with her staff with a blend of warmth and assertiveness.

Inside the venue, Aliana was a whirlwind of excitement and pride. She meticulously inspected the setup, checking table arrangements and ensuring that the catering team was well-prepared. Her eyes sparkled with satisfaction as she envisioned the joy that her creations would bring to the wedding celebration.

As the day drew to a close and Aliana returned to her bakery, a sense of fulfillment washed over her. She knew that she had given her best, not only in running her business but also in making a meaningful contribution to a couple's special day.

Mrs. Cody arrived at Aliana's bustling bakery, the scene was a flurry of activity with customers coming and going. She turned to Anderson, her brow furrowed in surprise, and asked, "Is this place always this busy?"

Anderson, standing beside her, responded calmly, "I think it's because it's the weekend, ma'am."

Mrs. Cody considered this for a moment before making a decision. "Then let's drive around and return in two hours. Perhaps it will be less crowded by then," she suggested.

Anderson nodded in agreement. "Yes, ma'am," he acknowledged, before leading her back to the car.

Driving away from the lively bakery, they arrived at a nearby coffee shop where Mrs. Cody settled down at a table to go over some pending matters. Anderson sat close by, attentive to her needs and ready to assist.

Two hours later, they returned to the bakery. As Mrs. Cody stepped inside, she was greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the air, a stark contrast to the bustling atmosphere she had encountered earlier.

Choosing to take a seat, Mrs. Cody gestured for Anderson to inquire about Aliana.

Meanwhile, Dalia, noticing Mrs. Cody's presence, approached with a friendly smile. "What would you like to order?" she asked politely.

Mrs. Cody shook her head slightly, declining the offer. "I would like to see Aliana Johnson," she replied firmly, her tone carrying an air of authority.

At the same time, Anderson was engaged in conversation at the counter.

Alex, who happened to overheard Anderson's inquiries. Sensing this visit must be important, Spotting Aliana's car pulling into the driveway, he hurriedly approached her.

Aliana returned to her bakery, the weight of the day's activities was evident in the slight slump of her shoulders and the weariness in her eyes. Her steps, usually confident, now carried a hint of fatigue as she made her way back to the bustling storefront.

Unbeknownst to her, Joe had parked the vehicle close to a luxurious black car, a detail that would soon catch her attention. She entered her bakery, her focus was solely on finding a moment of respite before addressing any outstanding matters.

However, Aliana glanced around her familiar surroundings, her gaze was drawn to an unexpected sight—a well-dressed woman in her fifties exuding an aura of authority, seated by the window. Standing beside her was Dalia, and Alex approached her with visible relief etched on his features,their path intersecting just as she opened the door

"Oh, Ms Ana, thank goodness you're here," Alex exclaimed, his voice tinged with urgency.

Concern flickered in Aliana's eyes as she responded, "What happened?"

"There's someone here to see you," Alex replied, gesturing discreetly towards the mysterious woman seated nearby.

Aliana's mouth formed a silent "oh" of surprise, her mind racing with questions about the visitor's identity. She exchanged a glance with Alex, silently seeking answers.

Mrs. Cody's attention was drawn to the door opening, she turned gracefully to observe one of the bakery staff members making their way towards a familiar-looking lady. Recognition sparked in Mrs. Cody's eyes as she recalled the photograph she had seen of this woman before.

A half-smile played on Mrs. Cody's lips as she considered the scene unfolding before her. She couldn't help but wonder about the hushed conversations she had observed earlier. "Why all the secrecy? Do they think I'm here to disrupt things, or perhaps they have misconstrued my intentions?"

Mrs. Cody masked her intrigue with a friendly demeanor. She saw potential in the woman she recognized and briefly imagined a different context where she could offer recommendations or opportunities.

From her vantage point, Mrs. Cody discreetly observed the woman's mannerisms—the confidence in her steps, the sincerity of her smile—as she approached her destination. Mrs. Cody's keen eyes missed nothing, capturing each detail with precision.

As the woman drew nearer, Mrs. Cody turned fully to face her, her expression shifting to one of polite interest tinged with a hint of curiosity.

Finally met eye to eye, Mrs. Cody's demeanor softened into a welcoming expression. Her gaze held a glimmer of anticipation, eager to unravel the nature of their unexpected encounter.

Aliana approached the woman and greeted her warmly, a polite smile gracing her lips. "Hello, ma'am," she began, her voice calm yet curious. "I'm Aliana Johnson. How may I be of service to you?" Her introduction was accompanied by a graceful extension of her hand for a handshake.

Mrs. Cody stood up, shaking her hand with a warm smile, "Would you like us to talk here or in your office?" Her tone was polite and accommodating.

"My office will be better, ma'am," Aliana responded confidently, leading the way. Mrs. Cody followed, and Anderson discreetly trailed behind, maintaining a respectful distance.

Entering Aliana's office, Mrs. Cody observed the organized and professional environment, which exuded a sense of efficiency and attention to detail. Aliana gestured graciously for Mrs. Cody to take a seat, her movements fluid and welcoming. "What can I offer you—coffee or tea?" Aliana asked courteously.

"Water will be fine," Mrs. Cody replied calmly, her tone businesslike and composed.

Aliana swiftly retrieved a bottle of water from the fridge,placing it on the table. She then took her seat across from Mrs. Cody, her mind already assuming the purpose of the meeting to be related to another significant dessert order.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Cody observed Aliana's preparations with interest. Sensing an opportunity to introduce herself formally, Mrs. Cody took the initiative. "I'm sorry, I haven't introduced myself," she began, her voice calm. With a deliberate motion, she uncapped the water bottle and poured it into the glass.

"I am Susan Cody Johnson," she revealed, "John Johnson's mother." Mrs. Cody paused, her gaze steady as she looked up to gauge Aliana's reaction.

The notepad and pen slipped from her hands, clattering softly on the floor . Her initial smile faded into shock, furrowed brow and a drained complexion..

Aliana's emotions were a whirlwind—shock, disbelief, and a dawning realization of the significance of Mrs. Cody's identity. The weight of this revelation left her momentarily speechless, her mind racing to process the implications.

Mrs. Cody observed Aliana's reaction keenly, her expression poised yet inscrutable. She noted the impact of her words with a mixture of curiosity and purpose, recognizing the gravity of the moment for both of them.

In the charged silence that followed, the room seemed to hold its breath as Aliana grappled with the revelations before her. Mrs. Cody's calm presence contrasted sharply with Aliana's visible distress, creating a poignant tableau of unexpected connections and unfolding truths.

As the weight of the moment settled over them, Mrs. Cody spoke again, her voice softened with understanding. "I understand this is a lot to take in, Aliana," she offered gently..