Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 3679

Lucy could instantly feel the dramatic shift in Carson's demeanor. A wave of disappointment washed over her, but she managed to force a stiff smile before scooping up the swan and heading back to her apartment.

*

It was a chaotic Monday. Marina was slammed with work and didn't get home until nine that night.

She walked straight into the kitchen, grabbed a bottled cocktail, and took a few long swallows before a knock at the door interrupted her.

Marina set the drink down and went to answer it. She paused when she saw George standing in the hallway.

George, dressed in a white cartoon graphic tee, gave her a warm, polite smile. "I'm having a few drinks at Carson's place. I wanted to invite you over!"

Marina politely declined. "I just got off work and I'm pretty exhausted. You guys go ahead and enjoy yourselves!"

George gave a dramatic shrug. "Come have a drink! It might be exactly what you need to unwind. I'm flying back to my home country tomorrow and won't be back until after the holidays. Just treat it as a farewell party for me, please?"

Finding it impossible to say no to that, Marina finally nodded. "Alright. Let me grab a few bottles of wine."

"I'll be waiting!" George flashed his trademark grin.

After George headed back across the hall, Marina went to her bedroom to change into a fresh set of clothes. She grabbed a few bottles of wine and walked over.

Standing in front of Carson's door, the irony of the situation wasn't lost on her. She took a deep breath, composed herself, and knocked.

Carson opened the door. His dark, intense eyes swept over her before he offered a soft smile. "I'll give you the passcode so you can just let yourself in next time."

"No thanks," Marina replied briskly. "I won't be making this a habit."

She brushed past him into the apartment. The interior was minimalist yet sophisticated, exactly matching his sleek, high-end taste.

George eagerly stood up from the sofa to greet her.

Marina placed the wine on the coffee table and offered a faint smile. "I can only stay for a little while. Don't let me interrupt your night."

George looked at Marina, a very knowing smile playing on his lips.

Carson ignored George entirely and tapped the bowl in front of Marina again. "Drink up."

Marina remained completely unmoved. "I thought I was invited over for drinks. Why are you pushing soup on me?"

"Then let's drink!" George immediately poured Marina a glass of wine.

"Actually, Marina, I wanted to ask your advice on something!" George said, his tone suddenly turning serious.

Carson grabbed his pack of cigarettes and stood up. "You two talk. I'm going to grab a smoke."

He headed straight for the balcony.

Marina turned to George. "What is it? Ask away. I don't know if I can give great advice, but I'll tell you whatever I know, completely unfiltered."