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?”

towards romance, the chef eagerly inquired in his non–standard accent. “Is

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

swiftly changed the subject. “Mr. Hayes, oh yes, why haven’t 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

originally seated at another

over to report to the distinguished gathering, visibly apprehensive.

here. However, half an hour ago, they abruptly changed course and are now en route to Tempa Street in Lonessy. It seems

Dominick, who had maintained a quiet demeanor until now, suddenly let out a cryptic sound

felt a knot of nerves tighten

reassured, his earnestness bordering on pledging an oath, “Everything

preferable, for his next words instantly cast a

chef’s companion, typically slow on the uptake, sensed the changes in the air. A sudden silence descended upon the

to meet

voice broke the peculiar silence. Eloise’s attire tonight was elegantly understated – a simple white blouse paired with jeans. accentuated by a delicate silver cross necklace. Her subtle makeup and gentle smile underscored her natural allure, a marked

stentatious models present.

her away, as protocol dictated that Dominick wasn’t keen on women approaching him.

didn’t resist the company of the striking woman; instead, he gestured for

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11:55 AM

Chapter 281

waiter promptly added a seat beside him for

nearly choking on the mouthful of beef

Hayley, seated across

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

could!

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

the advertising shoot go?”

glass towards Eloise, a gesture that seemed effortlessly natural

maintained a facade of calm and a gentle smile as she replied softly. “Our shoot is wrapped up now. As for the final results, no matter

Hayley’s finesse. She dared not speak out of turn or make any playful remarks, sticking to the expected