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.

warmth spreading from her hands

Sylvia, "First time in C

here once on a business trip, but it was a

you're not in a hurry to leave, you could stay and explore for a couple of days. I'm free as well, I could show you around C City," Estelle offered with clear,

you're here, you might as well stay. We have

refuse, simply responding, "That

surprised at how smoothly things were going. She squeezed Estelle's

the New Year, I'll

Gabriel, firmly said, "Then it's settled. Magdalen, make sure you keep your word and visit Grandpa after the

I wouldn't dare lie in front of you!" Magdalen raised her fruit tea, "Then here's to reuniting after the New

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

replied, "Not at

said, "If you want to travel, do it after the New Year. Don't go wandering off

finishing her fruit tea in

meal was enjoyable and relaxed. After dinner, everyone gathered for tea and conversation. Though Gabriel and Jonathan were naturally quiet, with Magdalen there,

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