Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 2912

For the rest of the meal, Gabriel talked with Norton, Penn, and a few others, while the rest made polite small talk and exchanged pleasantries.

Nash wasn’t sure if it was his imagination, but every time someone tried to offer Sylvia a toast, Gabriel Carnes—who had been chatting with Norton—would suddenly look over and ask the toasting guest a few questions. As a result, the toast to Sylvia would be quietly brushed aside.

By the time dinner was over, it was nearly nine o’clock. Oscar immediately announced that he’d reserved a private lounge upstairs and invited everyone to continue the evening with more drinks and conversation.

Gabriel didn’t refuse. Knowing what kind of gathering was in store upstairs—and worried the others might not relax around him—Norton excused himself, citing work to finish, and left early.

He said his goodbyes to Gabriel with a friendly expression. “Mr. Carnes, when you have some free time, let me treat you to dinner privately. I’ve heard Old Mr. Jarvis is also in J City, but I haven’t wanted to disturb him. When the time comes, I hope you can introduce me.”

“You’re too courteous, Norton,” Gabriel said, smiling calmly.

Norton’s smile deepened, his tone meaningful. “Not at all. I’ll be counting on your support in the future, Mr. Carnes.” After a few more pleasantries, he and his secretary took their leave.

As Gabriel turned, the others gathered around him at just the right moment, all heading upstairs toward the private lounge.

This time, Oscar and Claire fell behind the group. Oscar whispered, “I’ve got a bad feeling about tonight.”

Claire’s eyes danced slyly, a look of evident confidence on her face. “Don’t worry. No matter what, I’m not going to let President Raye come up short tonight!”

Her gaze was fixed a little ahead of them on the tall, imposing figure of Gabriel. There was no hesitation in her eyes—rather, a hint of anticipation.

*

When they entered the private lounge upstairs, the flashing lights and dim atmosphere, filled with colorful drinks, felt like a different world from the refined elegance of the dining area below.

Oscar drew a sharp breath. “I heard it had something to do with the Jarvis family over in C City.”

Pollock gave a discreet nod.

Oscar’s eyes flickered with deeper respect as he glanced over at Gabriel Carnes. It all made sense now—the questions in his mind suddenly had answers.

“Mr. Bard seems to trust you more. You’ve got to put in a good word for me,” Oscar urged, realizing that forging a connection with Gabriel Carnes was the kind of opportunity that would pay off for the rest of his life.

Pollock gave a faint smile. “I’ll do what I can.”

Meanwhile, Claire was still chatting with Gabriel. “I heard you haven’t been in J City for long, Mr. Bard. Have you had a chance to see the sights? I know the city inside and out—practically grew up here. If you’ve got some free time, I’d love to show you around.”