Crossroads

Chapter 284

The Innovate Group’s members arrived in a flurry at Central Point’s renowned restaurant, which they had entirely booked for the evening. Crystal chandeliers shimmered brilliantly, and everyone entered with excitement. The models from the production team were treated like platinum–level VIP their hearts Cuttering uncontrollably,

At 8.30 PM, everyone settled in an orderly fashion. True to its international reputation, the master cher’s creations left everyone delightfully indulgent. Glasses clinked amid lively conversations, laughter painting rosy hues on everyone’s faces.

“I heard this restaurant entertains guests less than 30 times a year. You can’t even get a reservation. And these dishes? They’re all exclusive, nowhere else to be found.”

In hushed tones, they occasionally glanced towards the far left table of the restaurant as excited whispers filled the air. “He’s really here!”

Hayley sat at the leftmost table, furrowing her brows. She looked around somewhat displeased, aware of the curious gates directed her way.

Sensing the intense scrutiny from others, the chef at the restaurant exchanged a toast with the man beside him, booming with hearty laughter that resonated deeply.

The chef, not entirely fluent in their la

language, queried, “Mr. Wellington, would you like a more private dining area?“

Dominick remained silent, merely lifting his glass and taking a sip.

“Are the dishes not to your liking the burly Fluvieran chef inquired warmly

Hayley had been observing Dominick’s demeanor all evening. Since entering the restaurant, something about him seemed off. His face remained stoic and indifferent as usual, yet she sensed his distraction.

It was as if he was scanning the surroundings, searching for something.

“Because

someone didn’t come.”

At his table, james cut a piece of steak and gave a thumbs–up to the chef beside him. “Delicious!”

“Some people just don’t appreciate what’s prepared for them. All the effort wasted because they couldn’t be bothered to show up!” The Sery director’s face darkened as he recalled something infuriating

“Who are you talking about?”

chef eagerly inquired in his non–standard accent. “Is it Mr. Wellington’s

interjected anxiously at the opportune moment, “What about Vincent? Why

I seen him tonight? Last time in Troton, I lost my luggage and the local police couldn’t find it all day. It was thanks to his friend’s help that I finally recovered it. I owe him

seated at

to

they abruptly changed course and are now en route to Tempa Street

now, suddenly let out a cryptic sound

knot of nerves tighten

pledging an oath, “Everything I’ve said is

have been preferable, for his next words instantly cast a

the uptake, sensed the changes in the air. A sudden silence descended upon the group.

nice to meet

white blouse paired with jeans. accentuated by a delicate silver cross necklace. Her subtle makeup and gentle smile underscored her natural allure, a marked contrast to the more

stentatious models present.

contemplated gently guiding her away, as protocol dictated that Dominick wasn’t keen on women

was different. Dominick didn’t resist the company of the striking woman; instead, he gestured for her to join him. Hence,

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11:55 AM

Chapter 281

promptly added a seat beside him

nearly choking on the mouthful of

Hayley, seated across

Dominick, maintained a professional smile, yet unease tinged her thoughts. She couldn’t sit next to

could!

occupied the expansive ground–floor lobby for their dinner, so every move and gesture was observed keenly by those

did the advertising shoot go?”

the partially filled wine glass towards

and a gentle smile as she replied softly. “Our shoot is wrapped up now. As for the final results, no matter what, I believe everyone gave their best effort.

couldn’t match Hayley’s finesse. She dared not