They walked in, and Ara was sitting with Lucca. He was cutting the meat into small pieces for Aracely, while Kate and Bastien’s plates were set in front of them. Lucca looked up with a mischievous sparkle in his eyes.“Better?”“Much better,” Bastien smiled.“Were you sick, Mr. Bastien?” Ara asked.“Yes, something like that. I was having withdrawal symptoms and going crazy.” He looked at Kate with a smile that made her blush. He pulled out her chair for her to sit and kissed her knuckles. Then he leaned into her cheek and whispered in her ear, “Behave, and maybe I’ll give you your panties back.”“Bastien…” Kate whispered his name while he turned to Ara.“Aracely, don’t call me Mr. Bastien, just Bastien, okay?”“But Lucca calls you that.”“Yes, because I’m his boss. And if he doesn’t call me that, I’ll dock a month’s salary. But you? You’re different. You’re Kate’s friend, and I think Lucca’s too. Don’t call me Mr., just Bastien. Every time you do, I’ll dock a month’s pay from Lucca, s

"Alright, time to work..." Kate sat down to print the design."Look, girls, what do you think? It’s a women’s dress and a men’s suit. I made four versions so we have more options to choose from.""Looks great, we can totally make it."Kate walked out to the living room where Arthur and Jake were sitting."Miss…""Guys, I’m going to need your help. Please go put on something comfortable, preferably shorts and a T-shirt. You’re going to be my models."Arthur and Jake exchanged confused glances."But miss—""Okay, if you don’t want to, that’s fine. I’ll find two other guys. I’m sure Cristy and Ally will love putting their hands all over them to take measurements.""No!! Okay, we’ll go change!""That’s what I thought. You’ve got five minutes.""We’ll be in the workshop in three," they said before running out. Kate smiled and turned around, only to find Bastien standing there with an amused smile."So my woman learned how to manipulate my men, huh?""It’s easy. They’re all gorillas like yo

Ara entered Lucca’s room with tears in her eyes. She knew he couldn’t be hers, but seeing him hugging that woman had hurt so much… He had a girlfriend. Lucca followed her inside.—Ara, sweetheart, it’s not what you think...—It’s okay, you don’t have to explain. I saw it. I didn’t know you had a girlfriend. I’d better get out of your room. I don’t want to cause any problems. You’ve already done so much for me.Lucca smiled and pulled her into a firm embrace.—Ara, she’s not my girlfriend. I don’t have one. I couldn’t.Ara tensed as Lucca looked into her beautiful blue eyes with a tender smile.—She’s my boss’s sister. I could never be with her because I… I’m in love with someone else.Lucca stepped back to see her teary eyes and wiped each tear gently.—Why are you crying? Do you really think I’d just leave you behind?—I… Lucca, I...—What is it, Ara? Tell me.—I...Aracely looked into Lucca’s dark eyes. He caressed her cheek, gazing at her with immense sweetness.—What is it…? —Lucc

In the workshop, Bastien had his arms wrapped around Kate's waist while the girls excitedly explained the designs for their project, the fabrics they chose, and every little detail with contagious enthusiasm.—Well, girls, what can I say? It's perfect. The change to gold was wonderful—a very smart choice —Moira said approvingly.The girls began jumping around with excitement, squealing with joy.—In fact, Kate, darling, I think I'll use this design in my runway show next year.—What!? —they all exclaimed at once, eyes wide with shock.—Yes, it’s beautiful and avant-garde. I think all four of you should attend the show, since you’re the co-creators of this masterpiece.—AAAHHH! —they shouted, laughing and hugging each other between jumps.—Well, girls, I think it’s time to go shopping —Bastien announced, leaving a kiss on Kate’s neck and pressing his hands on her stomach to pull her closer against him.—Shopping? I want to go too! —said Ella with a mischievous smile.—No, you're not in

Hours passed and it was getting late. Kate yawned deeply.—You're tired. Let’s go home —Bastien whispered, brushing his hand over her back.—Alright…Lucca looked at Ara tenderly.—Love, do you want to go home or keep going? Tell me. We’ll do whatever you want.—Home. I’m exhausted —she replied without hesitation.Lucca smiled and kissed her lips.—Let’s go, little one.Bastien walked over to Arthur and spoke quietly:—We’re leaving. Everything’s paid for. Take care of the girls. I’ll see you first thing in the morning.—Yes, sir.Bastien returned to Kate, who was dozing off on a couch. He picked her up in his arms, gently covered her with his jacket, and carried her out as if she were the most precious thing in the world.—I’m so sleepy… —Kate murmured, barely awake.—Shhh, we’re going home.Bastien carefully settled her in the back seat.—Lucca, you drive. Kate’s asleep.—Yes, sir.Lucca turned to Ara.—Come, love. Sit in the front next to me. The gentleman will carry the young lady