Outcast Queen: Her Return from Hell novel Chapter 366

Back at Starlight Heights.

As soon as Phoenix stepped into the entryway, a strange "aroma" hit her face.

"Did Pierce already make dinner?" Phoenix raised an eyebrow, kicking off her heels and walking barefoot across the carpet.

"Welcome back, my queen."

A tall, slender figure stepped out from the side. Pierce gave an exaggerated, gentlemanly bow, then naturally took Phoenix's hand, leading her toward the dining room.

"Pierce, what exactly are you up to?" Phoenix blinked, looking at the man in front of her with a mix of novelty and shock. "I'm not used to you being like this. Did you get possessed?"

Pierce chuckled awkwardly, gently rubbing the back of her hand with his thumb. "To the rest of the world, I'm 'The Reaper.' But to you... I am your most loyal subject."

Phoenix's heart skipped a beat as she stared at him in astonishment.

This man, who was usually as cold and arrogant as frost, had reserved all his warmth and vulnerability entirely for her.

This unique, singular devotion sent a wave of warmth through her, and she couldn't help but squeeze his hand back.

Feeling her response, Pierce's heart soared, and he eagerly pulled out a dining chair for her.

"Pierce, did you... cook all this yourself?" Phoenix sat down, scanning the dishes on the table. A complex surge of emotion welled up inside her.

She asked because these dishes lacked his usual flawless elegance. They looked amateurish, clumsy, and honestly... a bit disastrous. Looking at Pierce again, she noticed a smudge of grease on his handsome face, and the scent of a busy kitchen still clung to his clothes.

"You noticed, huh?" Pierce took the seat next to her, smiling sheepishly. He picked up a piece of meat that looked somewhat decent and placed it on her plate. "First time cooking. Would you do me the honor of trying it?"

Phoenix nodded and took a bite.

Pierce stared at her with deep anticipation, looking like a schoolboy waiting for his teacher to grade an exam.

Phoenix chewed gracefully, her expression completely neutral, betraying neither joy nor disgust.

"I didn't lie," Phoenix blinked, looking entirely innocent. "It genuinely is the 'best' meal you've ever made—considering it's your very first time."

Pierce blinked, suddenly realizing the wordplay.

"Alright, Phoenix, you're messing with me!" he laughed, feeling both helpless and amused. "Forget it, I'll have Yancy arrange a proper dinner."

"No need."

Phoenix suddenly leaned in close. Her beautiful eyes seemed to dance with flames as she stared intensely at Pierce. "Well, I see a much more appetizing dish right in front of me."

"Hmm?" Pierce froze for a split second.

The next second, Phoenix closed the distance and kissed him. Her soft, fiery lips were the spark that instantly ignited the long-suppressed volcano within him, spiraling out of control.

So, he was the dish on the menu after all.