Once She Came Like a Flash novel Chapter 98

**Faith Didn’t Survive Time – by Aadi Sharma**
**Chapter 98**

Luke shifted his gaze between Jasper and Renee, a look of bewilderment etched on his face. The initial confusion clouding his mind gradually lifted, and a spark of comprehension ignited as he pieced together their conversation.

As the meal commenced, Luke’s eyes gleamed with anticipation as he reached for a succulent piece of meat that had caught his attention. He savored the first bite, his expression transforming into one of delight. “This is absolutely tender and soft,” he declared, savoring the flavors dancing on his palate. “It’s rich in taste but not at all greasy. The juiciness is just perfect—definitely not dry. Really, you must try this, Boss!”

Next, he turned his attention to the stew, lifting a spoonful to his lips. He nodded appreciatively once more. “This stew is fantastic too. I once had something similar at a hotel, but it was a disaster—the meat was dry and tough, nothing compared to what Ms. Whitley has prepared here.”

Then, he sampled the steamed fish, his brows lifting in surprise. “It’s so fresh and delicate, and there’s no hint of a fishy smell whatsoever. Not bad at all. Seriously, Boss, you should give this one a taste.”

In that moment, Luke embodied the spirit of a food critic or perhaps an old-world royal steward, meticulously tasting each dish before offering his enthusiastic endorsement to Jasper.

Renee, sensing Jasper’s continued silence and emotional distance, felt a ripple of discomfort wash over her. She decided to break the stillness that hung in the air. “Mr. Zeller, is the food to your liking?” she inquired, her voice calm despite the tension.

Thank goodness for Luke’s lively presence. The prospect of being alone with Jasper would have been overwhelmingly awkward.

Jasper chewed slowly, his movements deliberate, almost graceful. There was an elegance to his eating that made the simple act seem refined.

“Not bad,” he finally responded, giving a slight nod, his tone measured.

“Ms. Whitley, just so you know, my boss is notoriously picky. When he says it’s ‘not bad,’ it’s actually a glowing endorsement,” Luke chimed in, plucking a fish bone from his mouth with a theatrical flair.

Jasper shot him a sharp glance, his expression a mix of annoyance and amusement. “You never stop talking, even when you’re eating,” he remarked dryly.

Luke flashed a cheeky grin. “Yeah, I suppose I deserve that,” he conceded, making a zipping motion across his lips before diving back into his meal.

Renee, wanting to lighten the mood even further, stood up and retrieved a glass of red wine. “Mr. Zeller, you’ve been such a tremendous help to me lately. I just wanted to say thank you. This one’s for you,” she said, offering it with a hopeful smile.

“Put it down. I don’t drink,” he replied, his voice cold and unyielding.

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