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.

ritual for Freya, almost like clocking in for

was unusually delayed. Freya couldn't wait, so she pocketed her

were you messaging? Were you checking in with Mr.

say that," Freya replied. "I eat on time, and

explanation, "Getting paid to eat on time? What is this,

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

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

I want nothing to do with Mr. Sutton," Freya said through gritted

happened to

to..." Neil trailed off, choosing his words carefully before continuing, "Used to admire Mr. Sutton quite a bit." Neil's understatement made Freya scoff, "Admire? You mean, I used to be head over heels for

past is the past, and things are different now The old Freya might have revolyed her world around Kieran, but the Freya of today doesn't want to live for anyone. That's all there

you considered seeing other men?" Neil's question aimed

Preston. ve

directness, "Dr. Anderson, are you