Chapter: 32

The three of them were strikingly attractive, each standing tall, their presence commanding enough to turn heads anywhere they went.

Luckily, the exclusivity of the members-only restaurant provided a semblance of privacy from unwanted attention.

Side by side with Zander, Kristian left the subtle art of introductions to Felipe, who was particularly skilled in such social niceties.

Felipe approached the door with a confident stride and knocked expertly, waiting for the soft sound of approval from within before entering.

His keen gaze quickly swept across the room, pausing briefly on Freya before warmly settling on Trent with a broad smile. "Mr. Seymour, what an unexpected pleasure to encounter you here in Jeucwell!" he exclaimed with genuine enthusiasm.

"You flatter me, Mr. Yates," Trent responded, his tone laced with courtesy as he dabbed at his lips with a napkin.

"And this must be..." Felipe's voice trailed off enticingly as his eyes shifted back to Freya, leaving his sentence hanging in the air.

Yet, Freya chose to remain enveloped in silence.

Over their two-year marriage, Kristian had never officially introduced Freya to his circle, though she had briefly met them at various social events.

It was hard for her to believe that Felipe was truly unaware of her identity.

"Just a friend," Trent replied with a shrug.

"Mr. Seymour, would you mind if we join you?" Felipe inquired boldly, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "It would be wonderful to become acquainted."

"Today isn't a good day," Trent replied with a courteous smile, maintaining his poised composure. "Perhaps on another occasion, we can share a delightful meal together."

His refusal was so final that Felipe, unable to press further, shot an inquisitive look towards Freya.

Trent, known for his strategic maneuvers, wouldn't reject an offer so outright unless his relationship with Freya actually meant something to him.

Felipe, not one to give up and still smarting from an earlier slight by Kristian, made another offer, his tone laced with a hint of mischief. "How about this," he offered, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "We have the private room next door. After you finish here, perhaps we could all meet for a chat?"

This time, Trent hesitated. Instead of a direct refusal, he turned to Freya, seeking her input with a_ silent, questioning gaze.

Trent wanted to agree—but the words stuck in his throat.

Freya didn't want him tangled in her divorce, yet as her friend, he couldn't stand by while she faced unfair treatment.

Besides, her father had entrusted him with a task: ensure Kristian knew Freya wasn't standing alone.

For the first time, Freya misread Trent's gaze, suspecting some unspoken alliance with Felipe. "I'm okay with that."

"Alright," Trent agreed, letting the moment pass without expLanation.

Felipe's eyes sparkled with amusement. After a few exchanged words, he strode away.

The door clicked shut. Freya turned to Trent, her voice steady. "Just act like you normally would. Don't adjust for me.