Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 2588

Gabriel poured a glass of wine for Old Mr. Jarvis. “If you put it that way, I might as well swear off marriage and kids altogether.”

Old Mr. Jarvis gave a snort, unimpressed. “Estelle’s getting married, and you, her older brother, are going to let her leave you in the dust? I’ve been patient with you, but don’t think that means my patience is endless.”

Gabriel smiled, his tone light. “Exactly because Estelle is getting married, I have even less reason to rush.”

Mr. Carnes chimed in, “Don’t use Estelle as an excuse. Now that you’re back, try not to give me any more headaches!”

Gabriel’s smile faded into something more sincere. “Grandpa, you’ve carried a lot these past years. Thank you.”

Old Mr. Jarvis’s eyes misted over. “We don’t need to talk about gratitude. As long as you and Estelle are happy, I’d gladly take on another ten years of trouble.”

They ate and talked, lingering over dinner for nearly an hour.

When the meal was finished, the two of them wandered out to the backyard. Old Mr. Jarvis glanced at Gabriel, who was still trailing behind him. “Why are you following me? Don’t you have your own things to do?”

Gabriel shrugged. “I just got back. Nowhere else I’d rather be this afternoon than right here with you.”

Old Mr. Jarvis huffed. “I’m just an old man. No need to keep me company. What you should be doing is explaining yourself—after how you left at Christmas, you owe someone an answer. Go, get out of here! You don’t need to keep me company—just don’t get me worked up.”

Gabriel chuckled. “Alright, I’m off.”

“Go on, and don’t come home until Estelle’s wedding, you hear me?” Old Mr. Jarvis added, his tone softening. “And don’t stay at Old Mr. Quintin’s place anymore—it’s not convenient.”

Gabriel nodded. “I know. I’ve already had my place cleaned up and ready.”

“Good,” Old Mr. Jarvis said, nodding again and again. “If you can, bring her home before Estelle’s wedding. I’d really like to meet the young lady.”

“I will,” Gabriel promised quietly.

She’d imagined him coming back. If she didn’t reach out first, maybe they wouldn’t see each other again until Estelle’s wedding.

She’d pictured that scenario—catching his eye across a crowded reception, perhaps exchanging a distant greeting before being swept away by the throng. She could handle that, she thought; it would be easy to turn away.

But now, here he was, suddenly, with no warning. She couldn’t even remember what expression she was supposed to wear.

Gabriel’s eyes darkened with emotion as he finally reached her. Time seemed to hold its breath.

Before he could say a word, Eugene came hurrying over.

“Sylvia!”

She turned, her senses numb, forcing her hands not to tremble as Eugene reached for her, holding her hand protectively. He looked at Gabriel, wary but polite. “Mr. Carnes. It’s been a while.”