Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1819

She pondered for a moment, then declared with a cheer, "No backing out!"

She wouldn't give that bitch Cindy the satisfaction-no way she was backing out now!

Carson fixed his gaze on her, "You sure you're not withdrawing?"

Marina nodded firmly, "Yes!"

Suddenly, Carson leaned in close, his hand gently cupping her chin, "Marina, I'm not as easygoing as you might think. You can't just change your mind whenever it suits you. Make sure you're certain this time, and stop being so wishy-washy."

Marina's brows furrowed. He was still smiling, but his eyes held a cold detachment that made her heart skip a beat. It reminded her of the ruthless way he'd handled Freddy, showing no mercy.

She felt compelled to explain, "I did consider calling off the engagement, but I haven't been indecisive. I haven't sought out Freddy; I wouldn't demean myself like that!"

"And your decision about the engagement?" Carson pressed.

Marina hesitated. Was it worth staying with Carson just to spite Cindy?

Seeing her silence, Carson let go of her chin and leaned back against the chair, "Forget it. We both got into this without serious intentions. Why should I insist on anything? I know you're only staying engaged because of Cindy. I can play along with that. And if you find someone you truly like someday, you're free to leave. I won't hold you back."

Marina raised an eyebrow, "Is that really fair to you?"

"It's fine. I have no plans to marry in the next couple of years anyway," Carson said magnanimously.

Marina mulled it over, "Then let's just keep things as they are for now. If you meet someone you like, I can step aside any time."

Staying engaged would also spare her the nagging from her parents about calling it off. She felt like her ears would grow calluses from their constant badgering.

Besides, she and Carson had laid their cards on the table today. They could both walk away from this relationship whenever they wanted.

"Agreed," Carson glanced at his watch and stood up, "We should head back. They'll be worried not finding us."

"Sure!" Marina nodded with a warm smile.

They returned to the private room one after the other. Charlie saw them and smirked, nudging Jonathan, "Looks like Carson's off the market for good." Jonathan commented dryly, "How can you tell?"

"They look more relaxed after stepping out, don't you see?" Charlie raised an eyebrow.

Carson sat down beside them, "What are you guys on about?"

Jonathan asked, "Is Marina still calling off the engagement?"

Carson feigned annoyance, "No, she's not. I can't figure her out; her mind changes with the wind. It's a good thing I'm not the type to hold a grudge." Charlie teased him, "Wasn't it you who begged her to stay?"

"I don't need to. I'm not exactly short on company," Carson replied with an air of indifference. Jonathan's lips curled slightly as he looked at Charlie, "Why does that sound so familiar?" Charlie replied coolly, "Perhaps that was your attitude with Estelle in the beginning?"

Jonathan scoffed, "Whoever it's about knows it well enough!"

Charlie chuckled, "Everyone's got their pitfalls. No need to rush."

Listening to their cryptic exchange, Carson laughed, "What are you two talking about? I can't make heads or tails of it."

Jonathan and Charlie exchanged a glance, with Charlie smiling, "Like I said, don't rush. You'll get it eventually."

Xavier stepped out onto the balcony for a smoke, his tall, solitary figure silhouetted against the darkness, causing Estelle to feel a touch of melancholy.

They had a bitter argument the other day, and Xavier hadn't sought her out since.

Estelle wanted to talk to Xavier, but before she could approach him, she noticed Norah suddenly heading towards him.