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.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Wow.. finally they're married now. I thought there will be another separation....
Thank you for the updates of Emily and Charlie. It seem that Orval may knows of Amelia and may be helping Emily get around her,...
Waiting for updates..thank you...
More updates please. Thank you...
This was so exciting, from the demise of Evelyn and her departure; to Sylvia’s and Gabriel’ confession of their love, commitment and marriage to one another. Thank you for the updates…I’m loving it!...
Wow...Victory dance 💃💃 finally what we have all been waiting for. Just love the way it is progressing. Cant wait for more and more updates...
Thank you for the updates..♥️...
Estelle and Jonathan re enters the plot. Cant wait to read more of them...
Awaiting updates..thank you...
May we please have updates. Thank you...