My Beloved Has Risen from Death’s Embrace

“Why are you snapping photos?” Sebastian barged into her shot, boldly declaring, “If you marry me, pretty lady, you’ll get to enjoy Uncle Orion’s cooking every single day!”

“Hey, why wouldn’t I just marry your uncle then?” Xanthea blurted out without thinking.

The moment the words left her mouth, Orion paused mid–bite, and Xanthea froze, realizing her comment was even bolder!

She looked across at the man who definitely heard her and quickly clarified, “I was just joking with the kid, don’t take it seriously, okay?”

Orion just nodded.

“He’s kind of scary anyway.” Sebastian began, but the icy glare from the man next to him cut him short. He zipped his lips and gave Xanthea a look that screamed: See? Really scary!

Xanthea chuckled, “Biting the hand that feeds you, huh? You’re still eating the food he made, and you dare to speak ill of him!” Orion spoke up, “Liam, the desserts should be ready in the kitchen.”

“Right away, sir. I’ll bring them over,” Liam replied.

“Dessert? Awesome! I love desserts!” Sebastian clapped his hands excitedly, only to be doused by Orion’s chilly, “Not for you.” Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.

“What? Uncle Orion, I’m sorry, I won’t speak ill in front of Xanthea again. Let me have some, please!”

“My young master, you misunderstood,” the butler said affectionately. “There really isn’t any for you. Mr. Lockwood made a special one just for Ms. Nightshade.”

Just for her?

Xanthea was flattered as she took a delicate bowl from the butler’s hands.

She peered into the bowl, delighted, “Is this Willowdale’s famous dessert a Refreshing Delight?”

‘Yes, the Refreshing Delight is a characteristic chilled dessert of Willowdale Island, made with red beans, peanuts, jelly noodles, and coconut, crafted from local produce. Since it’s cooling, Mr. Lockwood added dates and barley, which are beneficial for women, to ensure you can enjoy it without any health concerns.”

Overwhelmed, Xanthea looked at Orion, her admiration reaching new heights, “Mr. Lockwood, you’re too thoughtful! How is there such a vonderful man like you in the world? Whoever marries you will be so lucky!”

She had always loved such treats, but her parents often refused her, citing it was too cold for a girl to consume. She never imagined Orion’s Refreshing Delight would cater to her taste while balancing the cooling properties–it was perfect.

Ms. Nightshade, I’m flattered.”

Not at all! Where would I even find a handsome, rich, and culinary–gifted man like you these days? You’re so precious!”

Holding the small bowl, she sincerely praised him, her clear amber eyes reflecting his figure as if casting a divine halo around him, parking a greedy seed deep within his heart.

Matthew can’t cook, can he?”

lis question startled her, and a mysterious silence fell between them.

Irion’s lashes lowered, hiding the immediate regret that surged beneath, wondering why he had asked the question.

anthea didn’t dwell on it, but hearing the name of that scoundrel Matthew during such a pleasant time felt utterly disappointing.