The Bride Who Said No: Escaping the Shadows of Yesterday

Freya looked down at the apron Preston had tied around her waist, spacing out for a moment. By the time Freya snapped back to reality, Preston had already moved to the side, continuing with his chopping. Outside the kitchen, Hans and Neil, as if oblivious to what had just happened, made their way to the living room, engaging in some unknown conversation.

Freya couldn't help but take another look at Preston.

He was deeply focused on his chopping.

The profile of Preston's face seemed flawless. Although he was usually reserved and not much of a talker, he appeared quite serious in the kitchen.

Actually, not just in the kitchen. Whenever he was working on something, he was always serious.

Otherwise... he seemed a bit standoffish.

"Seen enough?"

Suddenly, Preston's words broke Freya's train of thought.

Freya coughed lightly and said, "I just... thought there was something on your face."

Without responding, Preston gave Freya the chance to swiftly reach out and tap his cheek. Although it was just a brief moment, Preston was visibly startled.

on Freya's hand now smeared across

instinctively wanted to intervene but

flirting. Why would

them. It

back, trust me, I know what I'm talking about," Neil said with

no choice

knew their boss was a stickler for cleanliness. The thought of his reaction

Preston communicated, maintaining

and washing were not difficult, and Preston quickly made his

at the

it was there and precisely wiped it off with a paper towel. Neil knew

was finally

ticked away, evening approached, and Freya emerged

to help, taking

ribs, garlic oysters, and grilled salmon, Neil's Inuith watered.

chicken stew with mushrooms, spicy fish, and a bowl of salad,

ready! This beats Preston and Hans' cooking by miles! I can smell the aroma from

his hands together, seemingly