Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)

Chapter 2262

Gabriel raised an eyebrow at her in silent rebuke, his voice deep and steady, "Grandpa won't give you a hard time, what's the rush?"

Sylvia held her wine glass, a hint of surprise crossing her face, her lips stained with the red of the wine, her cheeks slightly flushed, adding to her charm.

Old Mr. Jarvis gently chided, "She's toasting to me, and you have to make a comment. This drink, you'll take for me!"

Gabriel's gaze briefly swept over the girl. Without further comment, he picked up the wine and downed it in one go.

Beside them, Magdalen teased, "I thought Gabriel was advising Sylvia to sip her drink slowly. Turns out he thought she wasn't drinking enough and should gulp it down like he does."

Laughter filled the air, lightening the atmosphere considerably.

During the meal, Old Mr. Jarvis didn't make any special arrangements for Sylvia, allowing her to feel more at ease and as if she truly belonged, rather than being an outsider receiving special treatment.

The plum wine was rich in flavor, and Sylvia drank two glasses in succession. Gabriel subtly switched her wine for a fruit tea without making a fuss. Possibly from the alcohol, Sylvia felt a warmth spreading from her hands to her feet, a comforting warmth that soothed her heart.

Estelle asked Sylvia, "First time in C City?"

Sylvia replied with a gentle smile, "I've been here once on a business trip, but it was a rush."

"If you're not in a hurry to leave, you could stay and explore for a couple of days. I'm free as well, I could show you around C City," Estelle offered with clear, sincere eyes.

Old Mr. Jarvis smiled warmly, "Since you're here, you might as well stay. We have plenty of room."

Sylvia couldn't refuse, simply responding, "That sounds great!"

Magdalen was pleasantly surprised at how smoothly things were going. She squeezed Estelle's hand under the table, trying to remain composed, though her excitement was clear.

She chimed in, "Sylvia, you might as well stay for the holidays. After the New Year, I'll come over too. It'll be great to have everyone together again." Just as Sylvia was about to speak, Old Mr. Jarvis, seated across from Gabriel, firmly said, "Then it's settled. Magdalen, make sure you keep your word and visit Grandpa after the New Year!"

"Of course, I wouldn't dare lie in front of you!" Magdalen raised her fruit tea, "Then here's to reuniting after the New Year."

Everyone raised their glasses, and

just like that, Sylvia's stay with the Jarvis family over the holidays was decided. She glanced at Gabriel, who was looking back at her, his voice low, "Don't want to spend the holidays with me?"

Sylvia quickly replied, "Not at all!"

Gabriel said, "If you want to travel, do it after the New Year. Don't go wandering off before then."ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

Sylvia barely nodded, finishing her fruit tea in one gulp.

The meal was enjoyable and relaxed. After dinner, everyone gathered for tea and conversation. Though Gabriel and Jonathan were naturally quiet, with Magdalen there, the conversation never lulled.

Outside, the cold wind howled, but inside, it was as warm as spring. Even sitting in silence felt comforting. Magdalen had to return to J City, and Old Mr. Jarvis didn't insist on her staying, urging her to head back before it got dark. Before leaving, Magdalen approached Gabriel, smiling, "Gabriel, I'm entrusting Sylvia to you. Don't you dare bully her."

Sylvia glanced at Gabriel and quickly said, "Magdalen, you worry too much. Mr. Carnes would never bully me."

Gabriel responded calmly, "Don't worry. If she loses any weight after the New Year, you can come and hold me accountable." Magdalen's smile was bright, "Then there's no problem. Thank you, Gabriel!"

Gabriel smiled faintly, "It's no trouble."

Sylvia, growing more anxious, blurted out, "If you're so worried about me, I might as well go back to J City with you!"

"That's not possible, I only booked a ticket for myself." Magdalen winked at her and then turned to Old Mr. Jarvis, "Grandpa, I'm heading home. I'll wish you an early Happy New Year and hope you have good health and success in the coming year."

"Good, good!" Old Mr. Jarvis took out a prepared red envelope, "Here's a little New Year's gift for you."

Magdalen accepted it graciously, holding it close to her chest, "Thank you, Grandpa. I'll video call you on the first day of the New Year."