The Bride Who Said No: Escaping the Shadows of Yesterday

Chapter 282

Preston set aside the stack of papers he had been sifting through and slowly left the study.

In the living area, Hans, clad in an apron, was bustling about the kitchen, putting together a simple but hearty meal.

Freya had always figured someone of Preston's stature would dine exclusively on exotic delicacies or, at the very least, feast on steaks and lavish entrees every night. So, when she saw the spread on the table - a few dishes of green vegetables, the only indulgences being sautéed shrimp and a baked salmon in a rich, red wine sauce - her perception of Preston was utterly shattered.

Wasn't Preston supposed to be outrageously wealthy? Then why settle for such simplicity?

"Ms. Dawson, Preston really went all out with dinner. It looks like he thinks highly of you," Neil observed, clearly impressed by the evening's menu.

Finding a dish as simple as balsamic vinegar-dressed potato salad at Preston's was a rarity in the past. And then, a full six dishes plus a soup graced the table. Preston, however, remained silent.

Hans said, "We didn't expect Ms. Dawson to stay over for dinner, so the fish and shrimp were last-minute additions from Mr. Tyler. Hope it's to your liking, Ms. Dawson." "Sure," Freya reassured him. "I usually prefer a light dinner and enjoy simple, clean flavors."

With that, Freya discreetly took out her phone, snapped a photo of her meal, then sent it to Kieran.

become a daily ritual for Freya, almost like clocking in for work.

couldn't wait,

Dawson, who were you messaging? Were you checking in

say that," Freya replied.

burst into laughter after hearing Freya's explanation, "Getting paid to eat on time? What is this, a new kind of

"Romance? I'd rather die than be in a romance with

to Preston, noting the lack of reaction on his face before turning back to Freya, "It seems

I want nothing to do with

to make

his words carefully before continuing, "Used to admire Mr. Sutton quite a bit." Neil's understatement made

different now The old Freya might

you considered seeing other men?" Neil's question

Preston. ve

to the hint, opting for directness, "Dr.