Gabrielle quickly responded, “Whatever Mr. James is having, I’m in!”

“Ready to rumble, huh?” Charlie chuckled, glancing at Carson, “Grab a few pint glasses, and fill ’em up for Ms. Gabrielle.”

Carson and the gang, always eager for some excitement, fetched three pint glasses, each capable of holding a good ten ounces of liquor, and filled them to the brim, placing them before Gabrielle.

Charlie raised an eyebrow at her, “Go on then, show me how sincere Ms. Gabrielle really is!”

Gabrielle offered a sheepish grin, “You’re joking, right Mr. James?”

Carson chimed in, “Didn’t you just say you’d keep up no matter what? Or were you just pulling our leg?”

Aside from Jonathan, all the men spoke in low, gentle tones, their eyes twinkling with mirth, sending involuntary thrills through her, making it hard for Gabrielle to gauge their true feelings.

In desperation, Gabrielle sought out Magdalen, who merely curled her lips in a faint sneer, “Can’t handle it?”

Not wanting to lose face in front of J City’s renowned bachelors, Gabrielle lifted the glass and tipped it back, downing the drink in one go.

Three pint glasses amounting to nearly a whole bottle, Gabrielle drank it all.

was pitiful, but none of the onlookers showed any sign of pity, watching with detached

didn’t move either, just watched Gabrielle

round of applause,

head spinning, barely holding herself together as

Don’t try to show off again; not all spotlights are yours to stand

just stared

waiter over to take

herself. Don’t let her ruin the fun, carry on.

on Estelle’s hand, “Come find me

pulled Estelle along, “Ella’s with me today. I’ll hand her back after the party

in her eyes,

more rounds, they joined Morrison’s parents

waiting to visit Old Mr. Jarvis. Estelle’s gaze swept over them, spotting Terrence

ignored him and entered the

the elders, Magdalen followed Morrison in toasting,

“Have you eaten anything?

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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