Chapter 378

"What kind of Veridian fish was used in this dish?"

Evelyn tried to recall the taste of the stew. She couldn't pinpoint the exact fish, but she detected hints of garlic, bay leaf, fennel, and a touch of saffron.

The most dominant flavors were the tangy acidity of tomatoes, the sweetness of onions, and the earthiness of celery.

There were also a few vegetables she usually avoided—she had never been fond of them—but in this stew, they blended seamlessly, their presence subtle rather than overpowering.

"There isn't a specific Veridian fish used in Mariner's Stew," Alexander explained with an amused smile when he heard her question.

Evelyn immediately realized she had asked something foolish.

Mariner's Stew was traditionally made with whatever fresh catch was available that day. The type of fish didn't matter—it was about the medley of flavors.

She was relieved that only Alexander had witnessed her slip-up.

"Then what kind of fish was in this particular stew? I couldn't identify it," Evelyn said, taking another spoonful. The taste was rich, layered with the briny depth of shellfish and the sweetness of shrimp.

Too many flavors intertwined, making it impossible to isolate just one.

"That's the beauty of it. Every batch is different," Alexander replied.

He wiped his hands on his napkin, then reached for her untouched steak, swapping it with his own plate.

"You don't actually like this dish, do you? Try the steak instead," he suggested.

Evelyn blinked. Had she been that transparent?

She didn't hate the stew, but she certainly hadn't been enthusiastic about it either.

"I know you dislike celery and onions. And you despise ginger. You're also not particularly fond of fish, right?" He listed her preferences with unsettling accuracy.

"How do you know that? I never told you!"

Evelyn was picky, but she wasn't the type to make a fuss about food. She had never voiced her dislikes around him.

Alexander smirked and tapped his temple. "You didn't have to. I have eyes."

Evelyn had no retort.

Fine. He had a point.

Still, she eyed her bowl of golden-orange stew. "If you knew I don't like fish, why order a fish stew?"

Alexander leaned back, feigning innocence. "Life's too short not to try new things, isn't it?"

Then he chuckled. "Alright, I'll stop teasing. I ordered it because I wanted you to experience Veridian's local cuisine. You don't love fish, but you don't hate it either. I've seen you enjoy baked salmon and poached cod before."

He tore off a piece of bread, soaking it in the broth before popping it into his mouth.

Evelyn was startled by how well he knew her habits. And truthfully, after the first hesitant bite, she had wanted another spoonful.

At first, she had been skeptical, but once the herbal notes bloomed on her tongue, she found herself craving more.

This stew was dangerously addictive.

Just as they were finishing their meal, Evelyn's phone buzzed. The caller ID read Isabella.

It was unusual for her to call out of the blue. Evelyn answered.

"Isabella?" she asked, puzzled.

"Evelyn, did Dominic call you?" Isabella's voice was urgent.