Chapter 1848 Just FriendsElisa nodded and headed back to the dining room.
In a short while, Gareth joined her, placing the dishes on the table.
Elisa glanced over the array of dishes and raised an eyebrow at Gareth.
"You made all this? You're not trying to trick me with takeout, are you?"
Gareth didn't seem fazed by her doubt.
novelbinWith a composed demeanor, he responded, "Seems like my cooking skills are getting a thumbs-up
from Ms. Benett."
Their eyes met, and smiles were exchanged.
"Let's dig in. Reheated food tends to lose its charm," Elisa suggested as she began tasting the steak
before her.
It was worth mentioning that Gareth's cooking skills were top-notch, evident in the perfectly seared
steak.
Her taste was discerning, not easily pleased. Yet, this dish hit the mark—neither undercooked nor
tough, just exquisitely tender and juicy, accompanied by a subtle sweetness. It was, without a doubt, a
delight to the palate. Elisa gave him a thumbs-up. "If things don't pan out at the company, you've got a Plan B in cooking."
It might have been a playful suggestion, but Gareth's demeanor showed he was taking it seriously.
"There's only one person I desire to cook for in this lifetime."
As Elisa savored the delicious dishes Gareth had whipped up, it became apparent who Gareth was
alluding to when he mentioned 'that person'.
Elisa paused momentarily, and without missing a beat, Gareth slid a cup of plum juice her way. She
offered a quick thank you before taking a few sips, the cool liquid easing the dryness in her throat.
Although Elisa hadn't asked about the significance of their candlelit dinner, Gareth took the initiative to
bring it up.
"Do you know what special day is today?"
His words hung in the air, prompting Elisa to rest her utensils and focus on him.
Carrying a gentle warmth in his voice, Gareth continued, "Today marks our wedding anniversary, and
it's also our very first celebration that we're sharing. I've got to admit, I'm feeling pretty content right
now."
He added a theatrical flair as he revealed a small gift box, extending it to Elisa as though presenting a
priceless gem.
"I picked out this anniversary gift just for you. Take a peek and let me know if you like it." Elisa's deep and penetrating gaze met Gareth's as she spoke, sending a slight shiver down his spine.
Breaking the silence, she delivered unexpected words, "You know, we're already divorced."
Gareth's smile wavered briefly, but he quickly regained his composure.
"I know. I just thought I could make things right, Liz. I got this silver needle for you, meticulously crafted
using primitive methods and made from the finest sterling silver. Give it a shot."
Elisa politely declined the gift, shaking her head with a soft smile.
"The past is behind us. You don't need to hold onto any guilt."
Gareth's expression turned thoughtful, and he met her gaze squarely. "Liz, don't you understand what
I'm trying to say?"
With a calm demeanor, Elisa responded with a counter-question, "Don't you understand what I mean?"
Gareth's eyes flickered with a hint of frustration. "No, I don't get it."
Elisa nodded, her tone composed.
"Alright, then I'll lay it out for you. The past doesn't matter to me anymore. I don't feel anything towards
you, neither love nor hate. All I crave is a peaceful life, free from disruptions. You can't keep coming
and going as you please, disrupting my tranquility. We're better off as friends. That's all I can offer."
Gareth's frustration became more pronounced. "I don't want to be your friend only!" The undertone of a growl underscored his words, baring the struggle he faced in reining in his
emotions.
Right then, the room was plunged into darkness, leaving only the faint glimmer of candlelight.
The room plunged into darkness as the power went out.
Elisa looked around in the dimness, her senses on high alert. Without hesitation, Gareth edged closer
to her in the now-dark room.