Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 2910

The man introduced as Penn smiled as he said to Gabriel, “This is Nash from Golden Horizon Enterprises—the one I mentioned to you.”

Gabriel merely nodded in acknowledgment.

Pollock and Norton shook hands warmly, exchanging pleasantries that made it clear they enjoyed a strong rapport.

Oscar and Nash, on the other hand, were actual business competitors, with their companies offering similar products. Oscar, taking pride in his relationship with Pollock and feeling assured of his advantage, couldn’t help but let his eyebrows lift in satisfied confidence.

The group began to take their seats. The gathering was small—Norton, who had arranged the dinner, had only invited trusted associates. As everyone settled around the table, both Nash and the others, including Oscar, noticed a subtle but unmistakable sign: Norton, though the host, did not take the head seat. Instead, he respectfully left it for Mr. Bard.

This gesture did not go unnoticed. Its significance made everyone all the more cautious.

Oscar caught Claire’s eye and shot her a subtle look. Claire, skilled in reading the room, immediately picked up on the nuanced power dynamic.

As wine and dishes were served, Oscar raised his glass first. “I’ve heard about you for a long time, Mr. Bard, but I didn’t expect you to be so young and accomplished. It’s truly an honor to meet you today, thanks to Norton’s and Pollock’s introduction. I’d like to propose a toast to you, Mr. Bard—welcome to J City! I’ll drink this one in your honor, please feel free to drink at your leisure.”

Gabriel offered a faint smile. “You’re too kind, President Raye.”

Claire promptly stood, walking over to Gabriel with the wine bottle. After he finished his drink, she refilled his glass, then lifted her own. Her poised, confident demeanor revealed genuine admiration as she said,

“Mr. Bard, your plan to build a munitions plant is a tremendous benefit to our nation and its people. I must toast to your broad vision and your sense of responsibility—for safeguarding our community's peace and well-being. This is no hollow compliment; it truly comes from the heart!”

Sylvia, listening to Claire’s words, was struck by a thought and allowed herself a slight, knowing smile.

Gabriel’s gaze briefly flickered over the subtle curve of Sylvia’s lips. He acknowledged Claire’s toast with polite indifference and finished the wine in his glass.

“Then, I’ll toast you with tea instead, Mr. Bard. If I’ve done anything amiss before, I hope the gracious Mr. Bard will overlook it.”

Some present thought Sylvia was just making up for not having toasted earlier, trying to save face.

But only Gabriel picked up on the teasing note in her words, his expression growing a touch colder. “Gracious enough to accept everything that comes my way?”

Sylvia kept her smile. “I’m not so greedy. Even if I were facing the ocean, I’d be content with just a single scoop.”

Gabriel’s manner finally softened. At least he didn’t make things difficult for her again, accepting the tea she offered.

Letting out a quiet breath, Sylvia drank her own tea and returned gracefully to her seat.