Gabriel raised an eyebrow at her in silent rebuke, his voice deep and steady, "Grandpa won't give you a hard time, what's the rush?"

Sylvia held her wine glass, a hint of surprise crossing her face, her lips stained with the red of the wine, her cheeks slightly flushed, adding to her charm.

Old Mr. Jarvis gently chided, "She's toasting to me, and you have to make a comment. This drink, you'll take for me!"

Gabriel's gaze briefly swept over the girl. Without further comment, he picked up the wine and downed it in one go.

Beside them, Magdalen teased, "I thought Gabriel was advising Sylvia to sip her drink slowly. Turns out he thought she wasn't drinking enough and should gulp it down like he does." Laughter filled the air, lightening the atmosphere considerably.

During the meal, Old Mr. Jarvis didn't make any special arrangements for Sylvia, allowing her to feel more at ease and as if she truly belonged, rather than being an outsider receiving special treatment.

The plum wine was rich in flavor, and Sylvia drank two glasses in succession. Gabriel subtly switched her wine for a fruit tea without making a fuss.

a warmth spreading from her hands to her feet, a

asked Sylvia, "First time in C

been here once on a business trip, but it was a

for a couple of days. I'm free as well, I could show

Mr. Jarvis smiled warmly, "Since you're here, you might as well stay. We have plenty

refuse, simply

things were going. She squeezed Estelle's hand under the table, trying to remain composed, though

might as well stay for the holidays. After the New Year, I'll

across from Gabriel, firmly said, "Then it's

of you!" Magdalen raised her fruit tea, "Then here's to reuniting after the New

their glasses, and just like that, Sylvia's stay with the Jarvis family over the holidays was decided. She glanced at Gabriel, who was

replied,

to travel, do it after the New Year. Don't go wandering off before

barely nodded, finishing her

everyone gathered for tea and conversation. Though Gabriel and Jonathan were naturally quiet, with Magdalen there, the conversation never lulled. Outside, the cold wind howled, but inside, it was as warm as spring. Even sitting in silence

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