Chapter 597
Chapter 597:
Cayson had hoped that a dinner out might ease Yelena’s nerves about the competition, but acknowledging her commitments, he dropped the subject. “Alright. Don’t stress yourself. Just treat it like any other practice run p>
“Okay,” Yelena replied, her voice even and emotionless.
Once the call ended, Cayson’s demeanor shifted back to its usual seriousness. The gentle tone he had used with Yelena was gone. His phone vibrated again. It was a text from Bella: “Cayson, are you free tonight? Let’s have dinner p>
Cayson frowned at the message and replied almost reflexively, “I have work to do tonight p>
Bella read his response, irritation flaring within her. “Damn Cayson!” she muttered.
Bella had overheard Yelena turning down Cayson’s dinner invitation, prompting her to suggest they dine together instead. However, Cayson just declined Bella’s invitation outright.
It was all Yelena’s fault.
Frustration darkened Bella’s expression as she made a call. “Hello? It’s me p>
Later that evening, after finishing their work, Yelena and Tessa realized it was already dark and they were the last ones left.
Tessa looked at Yelena, guilt evident on her face. “I’m sorry you had to stay so late because of me. If I were more competent, you wouldn’t have wasted so much time p>
“Stop selling yourself short. If you really were incompetent, I wouldn’t even do this with you in the first place,” Yelena reassured her.
Tessa bit her lip, aware of her tendency to doubt herself.
“If you feel bad, why not make it up to me with a meal? I’m starving,” Yelena teased.
Deciding that actions would speak louder than words, Yelena planned to let Tessa demonstrate her abilities the following day. This could help boost her confidence even more. Confident in her judgment, Yelena always trusted her instincts.
Your imagination begins with gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s﹒ç𝗈𝗺
Tessa’s face brightened with enthusiasm at the mention of food.
Though she might not excel in other areas, Tessa was a connoisseur when it came to local cuisine. She knew all the best spots near the office for delicious and affordable meals.
“I know just the place for some amazing satay noodles,” Tessa said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. “It’s a noodle dish smothered in this super rich sauce. The flavors are incredible. I guarantee you’ll love it p>
Tessa was indeed a foodie. She expertly guided Yelena through a small alley near their company, leading her to a hidden gem offering delectable dishes Yelena would never have discovered on her own.
As they neared the food stall, the enticing aroma of the food wafted towards them, hinting at the culinary delights ahead. The stall was run by a middle-aged woman, dressed in a clean white apron and a transparent disposable cap, maintaining a neat and hygienic appearance.
Bathed in the warm glow of the stall lights, the woman skillfully prepared noodles, plunging them into a boiling pot from which steam rose, filling the air with the comforting atmosphere of a homely kitchen.
Upon seeing Tessa, the stall owner greeted her warmly. “Hey there, sweetheart! Good to see you p>
Tessa responded with a smile and a nod. “I’ve brought a colleague today to try your wonderful cooking p>
“That’s great! The usual for you today?” the stall owner asked.
“Yes, please,” Tessa confirmed.
She then turned to Yelena and asked, “What toppings would you like? There’s shrimp, clams, beef, fish balls, pork chops, and more. Choose whatever you fancy p>
Yelena surveyed the options, impressed by the fresh and varied selection.