Chapter 284
The Innovate Group’s members arrived in a flurry at Central Point’s renowned restaurant, which they had entirely booked for the evening. Crystal chandeliers shimmered brilliantly, and everyone entered with excitement. The models from the production team were treated like platinum–level VIP their hearts Cuttering uncontrollably,
At 8.30 PM, everyone settled in an orderly fashion. True to its international reputation, the master cher’s creations left everyone delightfully indulgent. Glasses clinked amid lively conversations, laughter painting rosy hues on everyone’s faces.
“I heard this restaurant entertains guests less than 30 times a year. You can’t even get a reservation. And these dishes? They’re all exclusive, nowhere else to be found.”
In hushed tones, they occasionally glanced towards the far left table of the restaurant as excited whispers filled the air. “He’s really here!”
Hayley sat at the leftmost table, furrowing her brows. She looked around somewhat displeased, aware of the curious gates directed her way.
Sensing the intense scrutiny from others, the chef at the restaurant exchanged a toast with the man beside him, booming with hearty laughter that resonated deeply.
The chef, not entirely fluent in their la
language, queried, “Mr. Wellington, would you like a more private dining area?“
Dominick remained silent, merely lifting his glass and taking a sip.
“Are the dishes not to your liking the burly Fluvieran chef inquired warmly
Hayley had been observing Dominick’s demeanor all evening. Since entering the restaurant, something about him seemed off. His face remained stoic and indifferent as usual, yet she sensed his distraction.
It was as if he was scanning the surroundings, searching for something.
“Because
someone didn’t come.”
At his table, james cut a piece of steak and gave a thumbs–up to the chef beside him. “Delicious!”
“Some people just don’t appreciate what’s prepared for them. All the effort wasted because they couldn’t be bothered to show up!” The Sery director’s face darkened as he recalled something infuriating
“Who are you talking about?”
Naturally inclined towards romance, the chef eagerly inquired in his non–standard accent. “Is it Mr. Wellington’s lover?”
Hayley interjected anxiously at the opportune moment, “What about Vincent? Why isn’t he here?”
Upon hearing Vincent’s name, the chef swiftly changed the subject. “Mr. Hayes, oh yes, why haven’t I seen him tonight? Last time in Troton, I lost my luggage and the local police couldn’t find it all day. It was thanks to his friend’s help that I finally recovered it. I owe him my deepest gratitude.”
Vincent’s assistant, originally seated at another table, was hastily:
y summoned over to report to the distinguished gathering, visibly apprehensive.
“Mr. Hayes had planned to pick up Ms. Reed from the hotel and join us here. However, half an hour ago, they abruptly changed course and are now en route to Tempa Street in Lonessy. It seems Ms. Reed has a craving for authentic street food from Harlington.”
“Oh” Dominick, who had maintained a quiet demeanor until now, suddenly let out a cryptic sound that hinted at hidden meaning
The assistant felt a knot of nerves tighten in his stomach.
He hurriedly reassured, his earnestness bordering on pledging an oath, “Everything I’ve said is the absolute truth.”
Silence might have been preferable, for his next words instantly cast a chill over the atmosphere.
Even the Fluvioran chef’s companion, typically slow on the uptake, sensed the changes in the air. A sudden silence descended upon the group.
“Mr. Wellington, nice to meet you.”
A surprisingly soft voice broke the peculiar silence. Eloise’s attire tonight was elegantly understated – a simple white blouse paired with jeans. accentuated by a delicate silver cross necklace. Her subtle makeup and gentle smile underscored her natural allure, a marked contrast to the more
stentatious models present.
Hayley instinctively contemplated gently guiding her away, as protocol dictated that Dominick wasn’t keen on women approaching him.
However, tonight was different. Dominick didn’t resist the company of the striking woman; instead, he gestured for her to join him. Hence, the
0
11:55 AM
Chapter 281
attentive waiter promptly added a seat beside him for Eloise.
James‘ surprise was palpable, nearly choking on the mouthful of beef he’d been chewing.
Hayley, seated across
oss from Dominick, maintained a professional smile, yet unease tinged her thoughts. She couldn’t sit next to him, but this model
could!
The intimate group occupied the expansive ground–floor lobby for their dinner, so every move and gesture was observed keenly by those around them. Women surreptitiously stole glances, their smiles masking a shift in their inner thoughts.
“How did the advertising shoot go?”
Dominick casually slid the partially filled wine glass towards Eloise, a gesture that seemed effortlessly natural
Eloise was genuinely taken aback, struggling to suppress her inner excitement. Her face maintained a facade of calm and a gentle smile as she replied softly. “Our shoot is wrapped up now. As for the final results, no matter what, I believe everyone gave their best effort. I hope the outcome will meet your standards, Mr. Wellington”
These were polite words, but Eloise knew she couldn’t match Hayley’s finesse. She dared not speak out of turn or make any playful remarks, sticking to the expected script.
To Eloise’s astonishment, he personally acknowledged her. “I think I will be satisfied with the results.”
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Crossroads Confessions by Deirdre Augus