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?”

the chef eagerly inquired in his non–standard accent. “Is it

opportune moment, “What

name, the chef 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

assistant, originally seated at another table, was hastily:

summoned over to report to the distinguished gathering, visibly apprehensive.

changed course and are now en

quiet demeanor until now, suddenly let out a cryptic sound that

assistant felt a knot of nerves tighten

an oath, “Everything I’ve said is the absolute truth.”

might have been preferable, for his next words instantly cast

chef’s companion, typically slow on the uptake, sensed the changes

Wellington, nice to

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,

stentatious models present.

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

resist the company of the striking woman; instead, he gestured for her

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11:55 AM

Chapter 281

waiter promptly added a seat beside him

palpable, nearly choking on the mouthful of beef he’d

Hayley, seated across

smile, yet unease tinged her thoughts. She couldn’t sit next

could!

gesture was observed keenly by those around them. Women surreptitiously stole glances, their smiles masking a shift in their

advertising shoot go?”

partially filled wine glass towards Eloise, a

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 what, I believe everyone gave their best effort. I hope the outcome will meet your standards, Mr.

but Eloise knew she couldn’t match Hayley’s finesse. She dared not speak out of turn