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?”

eagerly inquired in his non–standard

the opportune moment, “What about Vincent? Why isn’t he here?”

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

assistant, originally seated at another table, was hastily:

to report to

course and are now en route to

suddenly let out a cryptic sound that

assistant felt a knot of nerves

an oath, “Everything I’ve said is

next words instantly

companion, typically slow on the uptake, sensed the changes in the air. A sudden silence

Wellington, nice to meet you.”

a simple white blouse paired with jeans. accentuated by a delicate silver cross

stentatious models present.

as protocol dictated that Dominick

was different. Dominick didn’t resist the company of the striking woman; instead, he gestured

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11:55 AM

Chapter 281

added a seat beside

surprise was palpable, nearly choking on the mouthful of beef he’d been chewing.

Hayley, seated across

unease tinged her thoughts. She couldn’t sit next to him, but this model

could!

so every move and gesture was observed keenly by those around them. Women surreptitiously

did the advertising shoot go?”

towards Eloise, a gesture that seemed

excitement. Her face maintained a facade of calm and a gentle smile as she replied softly. “Our shoot is wrapped up now.

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