Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1851

"Everything wrapped up there?"

"Pretty much. I came straight here after the flight. Lucky I made it on time."

"Jonathan," Estelle murmured, sinking into his embrace, "I've missed you so much!"

His breath hitched at her words, the chill of his soul warming in an instant, the irritation and anger he had felt melting away.

She had that power over him-a single sentence could soothe him entirely.

He dipped his head to kiss her forehead, his voice deep and husky, "I've missed you too. Terribly."

His fervent lips traced a path down her fair, translucent cheek, seeking hers in a passionate kiss. Forced to tilt her head and lean back against the wall, Estelle responded with equal ardor.

As dusk fell, the castle lights twinkled on one by one, the garden party growing louder and more jubilant.

In the castle's shadow, the two shared a long embrace, the world around them fading into insignificance. Breathless, Jonathan pulled away, his gaze locked on her. "The ceremony's over. Let's head back," he rasped.

Estelle's eyes glistened, her gaze hazy yet stunningly clear, "I can't leave early; I'm a bridesmaid."

Jonathan glanced at the bouquet in her hands and held her tighter, "Darling, let's get married too. Your show's wrapped, and I've started planning our wedding. How about it? I don't want to wait for warmer weather I'm dying to see you in a wedding dress!"

Estelle lowered her lashes, "Wait just a bit longer. Soon."

"Oh," Estelle looked up, "my grandfather and mentor came too. They're with Geoffrey. I'll take you to meet them."

"Grandpa's here too?" Jonathan was surprised, "I wanted to formally visit your mentor. Won't it seem too rushed?"

"Don't worry!" Estelle laughed, her head tilted back, "My mentor isn't old-fashioned. He won't mind these details, and besides, grandpa is with him."

Jonathan's soft chuckle filled the air, "Then let's go now, and I'll pay a proper visit later!"

Estelle nodded, stepping out from his embrace, "Let's go."

"

Jonathan frowned at her exposed shoulders and neck, the memory of the ceremony's heat flaring up within him.

Yet that was a fire he couldn't unleash-not here.

He sighed, draping his coat over her and taking her hand as they walked toward the feast.

Striding confidently, his tall figure clad in black, he led Estelle past the grand, elegant castle, which now served as their backdrop.

Old Mr. Jarvis and the other esteemed guests were in the VIP section. Jonathan and Estelle ascended the vintage stone steps, a server leading the way to the banquet hall.

Upon opening the classic doors, they entered the grand hall, filled with today's VIPs.

Old Mr. Jarvis, Old Mr. Quintin, the Lamonts, the James and Scott families, and the Langstons-the hosts-were all there, chatting before the feast began.

As Jonathan and Estelle entered, the Langstons were the first to rise, "Jonathan, you made it!"

"Congratulations, Mr. Langston!"

After exchanging pleasantries with Mr. Langston, Jonathan turned to Old Mr. Jarvis, "Grandpa."

"We were just saying we hadn't seen you," chuckled Old Mr. Jarvis. "Come, let me introduce you to an elder."

With a warm, modest smile, Jonathan took the initiative, "Old Mr. Quintin, I'm Jonathan, Ella's husband. I should have visited you first thing in the morning. It's an honor to meet you today. I'll offer you a cup of tea now and pay a formal visit another day."