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?”

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

opportune moment, “What about

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 friend’s help that I finally recovered it. I owe him my deepest gratitude.”

at another table, was hastily:

to the

to pick up Ms. Reed from the hotel and join us here. However, half an hour ago, they abruptly changed course and are now en route to Tempa Street in Lonessy. It seems Ms. Reed has a craving for authentic street food from

a quiet demeanor until now, suddenly let

knot of nerves tighten

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

been preferable, for his next words instantly cast a chill over the atmosphere.

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

nice to meet you.”

accentuated by a delicate silver cross

stentatious models present.

protocol dictated that Dominick wasn’t

striking woman; instead, he gestured for her to join him. Hence,

0

11:55 AM

Chapter 281

waiter promptly added a seat beside him for

on the mouthful of beef he’d

Hayley, seated across

her thoughts. She couldn’t sit next to

could!

for their dinner, so every move and gesture was observed keenly by those around them. Women surreptitiously stole glances, their smiles masking a shift

did the advertising shoot

filled wine glass towards Eloise, a gesture that

calm and a gentle smile as she replied softly. “Our shoot is wrapped up now. As

were polite words, but Eloise knew she couldn’t match Hayley’s finesse. She dared not speak out of turn or make