Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 2261

As they walked ahead, laughing, Old Mr. Jarvis noticed Gabriel catching up and immediately stopped to give an order, "Why are you following me? Go take care of the guests!"

Gabriel instinctively turned his head towards Sylvia, who lifted her gaze, her eyes clear and sparkling.

Estelle, who had been walking with Sylvia, moved ahead to find Jonathan, saying, "Jonathan, I'm going to the backyard to grab some persimmon cakes. Wanna come with?"

"Sure!" Jonathan and Estelle made their way down the cobblestone path, turning a corner to head to the backyard.

Gabriel, a step slower, waited for Sylvia to catch up, and they walked shoulder to shoulder.

A couple of days ago, C City had seen its first snow of the season. There were still patches of snow unmelted, clinging to the newly bloomed red plum blossoms, making their sweet fragrance even more intoxicating.

A gust of wind came, scattering the snow and sending plum petals dancing in the air. Gabriel stepped sideways to shield the girl next to him, his handsome features highlighted in the moment.

He spoke softly, "What brings you to C City?"

Sylvia intended to explain that her visit was unplanned, but her words turned into a slightly coquettish chuckle, "Am I not welcome?"

"Not at all," Gabriel replied, looking at her, "Just a bit surprised, that's all."

Sylvia's voice softened, "I'm surprised too, to see you again."

"Are you on a break?" Gabriel inquired.

Sylvia smiled lightly, "Work's pretty much done. I'm free now."

Gabriel nodded, "Then you can stay in C City a bit longer."

Sylvia's smile remained, "Sure, I was planning to travel over the holidays anyway. Might as well start with C City."

"Where to next?" Gabriel asked.

Sylvia's smile faltered slightly, suddenly unsure of what to say. She wasn't used to lying, especially not in front of him.

Old Mr. Jarvis announced, "We also have fruit tea for those who don't drink alcohol."

Magdalen was tempted by the wine but didn't dare ignore Morrison's advice, opting for tea instead, "Then I'll join you with tea!"

Estelle had stopped taking birth control pills half a month earlier and obediently poured herself some tea as well.

Sylvia spoke up, "Then I'll join Old Mr. Jarvis for some plum wine."

Old Mr. Jarvis looked at her sharply, "Can you handle it?"

"Just a little, to accompany you," Sylvia filled her cup, "Thank you for your hospitality."

Her gesture was more out of respect for the old man than anything. Regardless of what Old Mr. Jarvis thought about her relationship with Gabriel, his kindness and tolerance touched her deeply, making her more than willing to share a drink with him.

With that, she lifted her cup and took a generous sip.