Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 2917

The hotel driver brought around everyone’s cars. Nash called out to Sylvia, “Ms. Jarvis, ride with me. I’ll take you home first.”

Gabriel said calmly, “No need. We’re headed in the same direction. I’ll take her.”

Nash looked concerned. He stepped protectively in front of Sylvia, making his intentions clear. “Mr. Bard, there’s no need to trouble you. I brought Ms. Jarvis here, so I’ll see her home as well.”

Just meeting her and already trying to take her away? Even if Sylvia was willing, Nash felt it was his responsibility to look out for her.

But Sylvia simply stepped out from behind Nash and, without hesitation, walked toward Gabriel. She glanced back at Nash and said, “I didn’t drink tonight. I can drive Mr. Bard home myself, so don’t worry.”

Nash kept trying to catch her eye and signal her, but he could only watch as the two of them got into the car and drove off.

Once Gabriel left, and as Pollock and Penn got into their own car and drove away, Oscar’s pleasant expression faded. He looked at Nash, forcing a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. “They say Mr. Carnes from HEGNAN is famously above temptation—money doesn’t move him. So, Nash, how much did you have to shell out to get Mr. Carnes to make such a ‘noble sacrifice’?”

Nash, hands in his pockets, replied easily with a smile, “Mr. Bard likes Sylvia, and for her, it was love at first sight. They’re mutually attracted to each other, President Raye—maybe don’t let your mind get too cynical.”

Oscar reacted as if he’d just heard a joke. He looked unimpressed. “Are you messing with me, Nash?”

Nash arched an eyebrow. “Just wait and see. Who knows, in a few days, Sylvia might be Mr. Bard’s girlfriend.”

Whatever Nash actually felt, he made sure never to lose face or confidence.

Oscar smirked. “Seems you really don’t know who Mr. Bard is.”

Nash asked, confused, “What do you mean?”

Oscar didn’t answer, just strode away. “My car is here. I’ll be off.”

Claire said goodbye to Nash and got into the car with Oscar.

She composed herself. “A man like Gabriel Carnes has no shortage of money or women. He’s probably more interested in the strength and credentials of a supplier’s business. I think you should focus your efforts there, President Raye—make sure Mr. Bard sees the value in your company.”

Oscar nodded. “That’s my thinking too—but an opportunity still needs to come up.”

“I’ll do everything I can to make that happen for you, President Raye,” Claire promised quickly.

Oscar just smiled slyly and said nothing more.

*

Sylvia drove, with Gabriel riding in the passenger seat for the first time. He’d had quite a bit to drink, but his gaze was as clear and deep as ever, betraying not even a hint of drunkenness.

Not long after they started driving, Gabriel spoke. “Turn left at the next intersection.”