Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 1861

Jonathan stood on the upper floor, gazing pensively at the two figures seated side by side on the steps below.

After a moment, he descended the stairs.

He walked through the classic, serene corridor when, coming from the opposite direction, was Manley. Their mutual intention was clear: Estelle. Catching sight of each other, both men halted their steps involuntarily.

The iron sconces along the hall flickered with a ghostly glow, while outside, fireworks lit up the sky, casting vibrant sparks that danced across the handsome features of both men.

Jonathan's profile was partly shrouded in shadows, accentuating the sharp contours of his face, his presence exuding an intense aura that made the cool winter air seem even thinner.

Manley, ever the carefree rogue, sported a jet-black earring, a black vest, and a crisp white shirt. His hands tucked casually into his pockets, he oozed a provocative air even in silence.

"Stay away from her," Jonathan's voice cut through the chill of the night, "or you might as well stay in Australia forever!"

"Oh, Mr. Lamont, the man who likes to control everyone is finally feeling helpless, huh?" Manley's smile was sly, his gaze teasing. "Ever hate yourself for that dumb move you made back in the day? You gave me this chance. Estelle may not love me, but in her heart, I'll always be special."

A flash of anger crossed Jonathan's face. "Don't push me to make you disappear completely!"

"You think I'm scared?" Manley laughed lazily. "If I vanish, you really think Estelle will forget me? She plays tough, but she's soft-hearted, especially towards her fellow families and friends. Say I call out to her now—who do you think she'd protect?"

Jonathan's eyes were dark pools, his expression unreadable. "She protects you because she sees you as the weaker one!"

Unfazed, Manley raised an eyebrow. "So what? As long as she's got my back, that's all I need. I don't want anything else."

He glanced towards the girl on the steps, the fireworks reflecting in his eyes, casting a bewitching glow. "I lost to you not because you're stronger, Jonathan, but because you met her first!"

Jonathan sneered. "Even if you had met her earlier, she still wouldn't have fallen for you!"

Manley's expression faltered briefly, but he quickly grinned. "Whatever, this argument is pointless. I'm heading back to Australia tomorrow. Take care of her. If you make her unhappy, I'll come back any time. And you won't always be so lucky to have her come running back to you!"

Six months ago, Emily had returned home for her brother's wedding. Manley and Estelle had planned to go skydiving in Skyrim, but the night before their departure, Estelle saw the gossip about Jonathan and Gwen in the tabloids. The next day, as they were about to leave for Skyrim, she abruptly decided not to go.