As they walked ahead, laughing, Old Mr. Jarvis noticed Gabriel catching up and immediately stopped to give an order, "Why are you following me? Go take care of the guests!" Gabriel instinctively turned his head towards Sylvia, who lifted her gaze, her eyes clear and sparkling.

Estelle, who had been walking with Sylvia, moved ahead to find Jonathan, saying, "Jonathan, I'm going to the backyard to grab some persimmon cakes. Wanna come with?" "Sure!" Jonathan and Estelle made their way down the cobblestone path, turning a corner to head to the backyard.

Gabriel, a step slower, waited for Sylvia to catch up, and they walked shoulder to shoulder.

A couple of days ago, C City had seen its first snow of the season. There were still patches of snow unmelted, clinging to the newly bloomed red plum blossoms, making their sweet fragrance even more intoxicating.

A gust of wind came, scattering the snow and sending plum petals dancing in the air. Gabriel stepped sideways to shield the girl next to him, his handsome features highlighted in the moment. He spoke softly, "What brings you to C City?"

Sylvia intended to explain that her visit was unplanned, but her words turned into a slightly coquettish chuckle, "Am I not welcome?"

"Not at all," Gabriel replied, looking at her, "Just a bit surprised, that's all."

softened, "I'm surprised too, to see

you on a break?" Gabriel

"Work's pretty

"Then you can stay

well start with C City." Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the

next?" Gabriel

say. She wasn't used to lying, especially not in

Mr. Jarvis, "You

coincidence that Gabriel and Sylvia ended up

treating their interaction as if they were strangers, neither neglecting nor engaging in

the persimmon cakes, their vibrant color instantly adding a sense of

had someone warm up some plum wine, its refreshing sour-sweet aroma mixing with the

also have fruit tea for those who don't drink

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

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