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

instinctively wanted to intervene but

"Let them be. They're just flirting. Why

see any sign of affection between them. It seemed like Freya did it on

I'm talking about," Neil said with a confident

had no choice but to

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

and Preston communicated, maintaining harmony in the

not difficult, and Preston quickly made

the

to have already known it was there and precisely wiped

seemingly unapproachable man was finally showing

away, evening approached, and Freya

quickly stepped up to help, taking

with meatballs, pork ribs, garlic oysters, and grilled salmon, Neil's

mention the comfort dishes that followed, like chicken stew with mushrooms, spicy fish, and a bowl of salad, all of which were Neil's

by miles! I can smell

rubbing his hands together, seemingly eager to start