Chapter 298

When Freya’s gaze met Preston’s, she hesitated, her previous determination to leave momentarily faltering.

“Where are you off to?” Preston asked, his tone indifferent.

“Kieran’s looking for me. I have to go home for a bit,” Freya replied.

Hearing that, Preston pressed, “And what about your writing? Are you still practicing?”

“Um… Yes, but…”

“Practice isn’t something you do sporadically. If Kieran’s calling you back every day, does that mean you’ll leave every day?”

Freya fell silent under Preston’s reprimand, not daring to speak up.

Preston added coldly, “You’re free to go, of course. But if you do, don’t bother returning to me for writing lessons.” His tone turned icy, leaving Freya with no doubt about how serious he was. She had produced an essay with her left hand just the night before, and abandoning her progress was not an option.

Overhearing the commotion upstairs, Neil came down to investigate. Seeing both silent, he asked, “What’s going on here?”

“I… I wanted to head back for a bit, but Mr. Tyler isn’t keen on the idea,” Freya explained, cautiously watching Preston’s reaction.

Preston remained impassive, which Neil quickly picked up on. “Is it Kieran calling you back?”

Freya nodded. “Yes.”

“You’ve called off the engagement. Why bother with Kieran?” As Neil spoke, he gently pushed Freya back onto the couch, continuing, “I get it. You’re worried Kieran might retaliate against the Dawson family. But look, Preston’s taken you under his wing as your mentor. He’ll look out for you.”

Freya found herself reassured by Neil’s words and sat back down.

“If Kieran becomes a nuisance, I’ll take you back tonight, claiming it’s for a physical therapy session. With the engagement off, he has no say over who you’re friends with. It makes sense, right?”

“Right. That makes sense.”

Comforted by Neil’s logic, Freya no longer felt inclined to put up with Kieran. She would have cut ties with him long ago had she not felt outmatched.

“Then stay here and relax. I’ll ensure you get back safely once it’s dark,” Neil promised, trying to put Freya at ease.

Observing Preston’s silent agreement, Freya nodded. “Okay, thanks, Dr. Anderson.”

“Don’t mention it! You’re Preston’s student, which makes you mine, too. Preston and I have always had each other’s backs.”

Noticing Preston’s gaze, Neil quickly excused himself. “Uh, I’ve got things to attend to. I’ll be back tonight.”

With that, Neil left, and so did Hans, leaving Freya’s room in silence.

Turning to Preston, Freya ventured, “So… should I go and practice writing in the study?”

“Suit yourself,” Preston replied without a glance, leaving.

Thanks to Neil’s intervention, Freya felt justified in staying in the Tyler Mansion, unlike the previous night when Preston had kept a close eye on her.