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.

that was on Freya's hand now

the kitchen, Hans instinctively wanted to intervene

said, "Let them be. They're just flirting. Why would you interrupt? Come

them. It seemed like Freya

talking

choice but to

both knew their boss was a stickler for cleanliness. The thought of his reaction to the flour

Preston communicated, maintaining harmony in

and

at the flour

Preston seemed to have already known it was there and precisely wiped it off with a paper towel. Neil knew he wasn't

unapproachable man was finally

and Freya

stepped up to help, taking

spread of spaghetti with meatballs, pork ribs, garlic oysters, and

that followed, like chicken stew with mushrooms, spicy fish, and a bowl

Hans' cooking by

hands together, seemingly eager to start the