Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 3296

In the banquet hall, the guests were dressed in formal wear, mingling under the glowing, opulent lights. The elegant atmosphere made everyone look radiant and sophisticated as they chatted and laughed warmly.

"It's hosted by an expat who just returned from M Country," Adrian explained in a low voice. "He saw that the local market was booming and decided to bring his business here. He's using tonight to network with J City's elite."

Norah scanned the room. "Do you think Jonathan will be here?"

"He's definitely on the guest list, but who knows if he'll actually show up," Adrian replied.

Norah laughed. "I bet he won't!"

Jonathan was attached at the hip to Estelle these days. He wouldn't waste his time at a stuffy reception when he could be with her.

She didn't spot Jonathan, but a familiar figure caught her eye.

Gonzalez was chatting with a group of men in sharp suits. Beside him stood a stunning woman in a plunging evening gown. She had a flirtatious smile and kept glancing at him before she spoke—her gaze practically dripping with honey.

Suddenly, Gonzalez turned. His dark, predatory gaze locked onto Norah from across the room.

"Charlie is over there. Let's go say hi," Adrian said, taking Norah's hand and leading her away. Norah resisted the urge to look back.

Charlie James smiled warmly as they approached. "Norah."

"Charlie!" Norah greeted him cheerfully.

Charlie was dressed in a crisp white shirt and a dark gray vest. He had a gentle, welcoming smile that immediately put people at ease.

"I didn't expect to see you here!" Adrian said, pleasantly surprised.

"Just stopping by to greet an old friend," Charlie replied with a light laugh. "I'll be heading out soon." He checked his watch; Emily would be getting off work any minute.

"When are you and Emily making it official?" Adrian teased.

Charlie shot back smoothly, "If it were up to me, we'd do it tomorrow."

She turned around, wiping the corner of her mouth with a smile. "Carson!"

Carson Foster looked effortlessly handsome in a tailored black suit. "Who did you come with?" he asked with a polite smile.

"Adrian," she replied.

"Adrian Chambers?"

"Yep," Norah nodded. "I just saw Charlie earlier, too!"

Carson chuckled. "I saw him. He's probably halfway out the door by now. Family men can't stay out for long."

Norah raised an eyebrow. "Just like Jonathan?"

They exchanged a knowing laugh.