When She Stops Playing Nice

Chapter 24

Gabriel’s mood improved significantly. He took Gina’s hand. “Let’s go. Dad is waiting.”

Gina was taken aback by how presumptuous he was. By the time she recovered, Gabriel was already holding her hand. It felt soft and tender. He didn’t want to let go.

Gina tried to pull away. What are you doing?” She was used to being on her own. Holding hands was too intimate. She felt uncomfortable.

“Can’t I hold your hand? Do you not like me?” Gabriel sounded sad.

David bowed his head to hide his shock. Was Gabriel acting coy?

Gina went speechless. Although she didn’t like to deal with social niceties, not letting him hold her hand seemed like she was rejecting him. She didn’t mean that. “It’s okay… You can hold it, Gina agreed eventually.

Asly gleam flashed across Gabriel’s eyes. They entered the Grand Restaurant. Their attractive looks drew attention immediately.

One of them whispered, “I can’t believe it. Is that Mr. Jackson? This is the first time I saw him here with a woman.”

Another added, “Mr. Jackson is so dashing. That woman is also beautiful. They’re so compatible.

Some secretly took out their phones to photograph them and posted them on their social media with the caption, “Such a beautiful couple!” The photos spread quickly. Some recognized Gabriel but he blocked Gina, making it impossible to tell who she was. It sparked a round of jealousy.

the first

its century–long history, was a high–end establishment. The First Phoenix room had its history too. Many important people used to have meals and discussions there. The room had antiques and paintings left

dollars to dine there. Each customer was limited to one

spacious and there was a small rock

almost dropped at their enjoined hands. How

someone he liked. Now he was making the moves. Despite Gabriel’s flaws, Neil admitted Gabriel had a good

“Gina,

Neil was older, she

invited warmly, gesturing

to Neil./This is a present for you. To make up for

told Gina about it being his birthday yesterday and so hadn’t expected it. He accepted it happily. Thanks,

Chapter 24

Neil didn’t open it, Gina asked, “Aren’t you

gave him. He didn’t

was an pearl ring resting on top of medicinal herbs. The faint aroma of the herbs wafted out. Neil questioned, “Gina, why put the herbs in there?”

it in the day.

that. Thanks, Gina. I

heart warmed too. Neil made her feel cherished and valued, something she had always wanted from

“You’re welcome.”

waved at them. “Come,