I FOCUSED ON wiping the already crystal clear counter, in the corner of my eyes I could see Elijah - ruffling with the papers in his hands before throwing them on the glass counter.

"You're not paying another bill for this stupid shop, Leah," he said and I abruptly raised my head, looking directly at him - quite offended.

"You don't own this shop, I do. So don't poke your nose around it." I stated, keeping my hands on my hips.

"I'm your boyfriend, I got the right to poke around into many things," Elijah smirked at his silly double-meaning joke while I softly smiled.

I peered at the tray full of cupcakes sitting on the counter and then to the big glass doors - waiting for the bell above it to jingle with the hope of customers. I could see the hustle-bustle of people outside on the streets glowing in dim orange streetlight through the large transparent window - with a huge pink logo in center - 'Leah's lovely cakes'.

I didn't realize Elijah standing behind me, he wrapped his hands around my waist and rested his chin on my shoulder. I smiled warmly, tugging my fingers in his hair and playing with his loose blonde locks - it makes me feel relieved.

"You should consider the option-"

"God, Elijah not again," I said, groaning and pushed him away, "You can't think of anything else, can you?"

"Can't you see it yourself?" he threw his hands in the air.

"This is my dream!"

"It's turning into a nightmare, open your eyes," he remarked making my jaw unhinge, I folded my arms and let out a loud scoff at his words.

"I just opened it." I gritted my teeth feeling a wave of anger rising within me.

"It's been six months-"

"Only."

"I know you're quite smart - but this, this just plain dumb." he rolled his eyes and picked up his jacket from the hook before making his way towards the door.

"You're an asshole-" I yelled after him with nothing to say as a comeback as he left.

It was a Friday evening, the beginning of the weekend and I was hopeful of seeing some or any customers. To my dismay, there was not a single sale, making me think if Elijah is right about it.

I glanced at the clock on the wall painted in pastel blue as the shorthand passed the number 9 - time to close. Another day went by with no profile - there hasn't been any good profit since I've opened this bakery. Everything I earn vanishes in the bills and rents - leaving me with just pennies.

Gosh, I hate when he's right.

To lift my mood, I grabbed my favorite - strawberry cupcake, drizzled with chocolate chip and topped with a cherry, from the tray and took a huge bite. I closed my eyes savoring the flavors as they - like usual took hold of me.

"You're just a disappointment Leah." the voice of my mother in my head, made my eyes shot open. My breathing hitched as I stomped my foot with all my force and let out a muffled scream - it echoed into the empty room and ringed back into my ears. I curled my fingers into my fist as my eyes started to brim with tears.

Why isn't the cupcake working today?

I heard the bell jingle behind me, even with my back facing the door - I knew he's back, so I yelled, "The shop's closed, Elijah!"

"Boy trouble huh? Have a strawberry cupcake with choco-chip and cherry - you'll feel better."

My head shot up at those words, making the cake in my hand fall at the familiar voice. I hastily turned around to meet her eyes first- her hazel orbs which always reminded me of my favorite nuts were deep and darker than what I remembered seeing three years ago, of what I remembered of - Arryn Parker.