The Bride Who Said No: Escaping the Shadows of Yesterday novel 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.

Sending Kieran her dinner updates had become a daily ritual for Freya, almost like clocking in for work. Each night's check-in would net her a cool million in reward.

But this time, Kieran's response was unusually delayed. Freya couldn’t wait, so she pocketed her phone and started eating.

Curious, Neil asked, "Ms. Dawson, who were you messaging? Were you checking in with Mr. Sutton?"

"Checking in? I suppose you could say that," Freya replied. "I eat on time, and Kieran pays me for it."