Better Late, But Never His Again novel Chapter 26

Julian suddenly remembered how Hazel would always monopolize the kitchen when she was home. She loved to cook, and whenever she saw him enjoying her meals, her face would light up with absolute joy.

"Hazel loves cooking," he said with a faint smile. "I only let her do it because it's her hobby. Plus, she's actually a fantastic cook."

A flicker of annoyance crossed Evelyn's face, but she quickly masked it with a bright smile. "Well, then I'll just have to learn how to cook too."

Julian didn't argue. He gently guided her by the shoulders and sat her down on the sofa. "You just focus on resting. Don't push yourself. Your hands were meant for conducting experiments, not doing chores. Let Hazel handle the cooking."

Pulling out his phone, he shot Hazel a quick text.

[When are you coming home?]

The message delivered, but several minutes passed with no reply.

His brows knit together.

In the past, she always replied instantly. Even if she was busy, she would text back within a few minutes.

Why was it taking so long this time?

A wave of irritation washed over Julian, but he didn't say anything. Evelyn had already finished plating the food and brought it to the dining table.

"Julian, let's eat."

Julian walked over and took a seat across from her.

He took a bite of the food, and his expression faltered slightly.

It was incredibly salty.

He instantly thought of Hazel's cooking. Her seasoning was always flawless. She would never make such an amateur mistake.

But he didn't say a word. He forced a smile, took another bite, and swallowed it down.

"It's delicious."

Evelyn watched him eagerly, her eyes shining with anticipation. "Really?"

Julian nodded and gently put his fork down.

"Evelyn, let's go out to eat. We can go to that restaurant you love."

Just the thought of that icy, untouchable face and those intensely hostile eyes made her skin crawl.

But she couldn't just avoid it.

Taking a deep breath, she walked down the familiar alleyway.

It was a long walk, but she eventually reached the antique signpost at the very end.

She pushed the door open and walked in. Just like last time, the shop was completely empty.

Zachary was lounging in a rocking chair by the door, an old cap pulled over his face as if he were sunbathing.

Hazel glanced up at the sky. It was completely overcast. What exactly was he tanning?

She approached him and tapped lightly on the doorframe. "Zachary."

The figure in the chair stirred and slowly sat up.

Those sharp, predatory eyes opened, glinting like shattered ice. A toothpick rested casually between his lips, and his entire face screamed that he was deeply annoyed at the interruption.