His Heart Knew Before He Did novel Chapter 20

"Are you planning on eating here too?"

"I borrow your kitchen, you get to eat my cooking. We call it even."

"..." Lydia sighed. "No onions."

"Got it."

For the next hour, Xavier stayed busy in the kitchen.

A mouthwatering aroma drifted out into the living room, pulling Lydia off the sofa. She couldn't help but wander over to the kitchen doorway.

She crossed her arms and leaned against the doorframe, watching Xavier's broad back as he moved efficiently around the space.

He actually looked like he knew what he was doing.

"Stop staring at me." Xavier didn't even turn around as he flawlessly flipped a pan.

The pure arrogance.

Did this guy have eyes in the back of his head?

She hadn't even made a sound. How did he know she was standing there?

As if reading her thoughts, Xavier's lazy voice drifted back to her. "What insults are you throwing at me in your head now, friend?"

"..." Unbelievable. He could read minds, too.

When Lydia finally looked at the incredible spread laid out on the table, she had a momentary crisis of faith. There was no way this rugged, tough-as-nails guy had cooked all this.

Roasted chicken, perfectly seared steak, BBQ ribs, fresh salads, and a steaming bowl of soup.

For two people, it was an absolute feast.

She picked up a piece of the BBQ ribs and took a bite. It was surprisingly good.

"Well?" Xavier sat down directly across from her. "Is it good?"

"It's alright."

Xavier scooped a bowl of soup and placed it in front of her. "Alright... guess that means it doesn't suck. Eat up."

Halfway through the meal, Xavier casually struck up a conversation. "What are your plans after the holidays?"

"Going back to work."

"You already found a job?"

"Yeah."

"Where?"

Lydia paused her fork mid-air, offering a vague reply. "Around here."

"Nice."

Just then, Lydia's phone chimed. It was a video call from Simon.

She hesitated for a few seconds before grabbing her phone and walking out onto the balcony to answer.

[Lydia, Happy New Year!]

[Happy New Year.]

[What did you have for dinner tonight? How's it feel being back in your hometown?]

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