Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1876

In the garden, Robin lounged on a bench, a cigarette dangling lazily from his fingers.

Sophia approached with a playful smile and draped a coat over his shoulders. "Aren't you cold, dressed like that?"

"The sun's out; it feels pretty warm!" Robin took a drag and exhaled a cloud of smoke into the crisp air.

"Why come out here instead of chatting inside?" Sophia leaned against him; her former aversion to the smell of smoke now became an endearing quirk, thanks to Robin.

Running a startup was tough, which caused Robin's smoking to become more frequent.

"Mr. Lamont and Mr. Langston don't smoke. They probably can't stand the smell," Robin mused.

"But they do smoke!" Sophia blurted out before she could stop herself.

Robin's gaze darkened with a hint of humor. "They just turned down a smoke from me. Seems like my brand isn't up to their standards."

Sophia's face fell as she rushed to explain. "They used to, but they might be trying for a baby now, and so-"

"There's no need to explain. In their eyes, I'm just a small fry. You're suffering because of me," Robin said with an unreadable expression.

Sophia shook her head. "You're overthinking it. They're not like that at all!"

He took another puff and remained silent.

"You're amazing, Robin," Sophia reassured him, resting her head on his shoulder. "Not many people could make it in Silicon Valley, let alone start their own company. Don't sell yourself short." Robin, touched by her words, wrapped an arm around her. "I'll work even harder. I'll make a name for myself in J City!"

He was convinced that he would one day be a part of the city's elite.

Sophia looked up at him with admiration. "You're already doing great, you really are!"

Robin gazed down at her innocent and warm smile, feeling a stir in his heart. He lowered his head and planted a soft kiss on her forehead.

Sophia closed her eyes and held him close.

Jason stepped out of his car, planning to head up to the third floor to grab some things. As he crossed the garden, he caught sight of the couple on the bench, and he was immediately taken aback. With the afternoon sun warming his skin, he still felt as if he had plunged into icy waters. The wind felt sharp against his face, carrying a biting cold.

A deep pang of sorrow welled up from within. He lowered his gaze and took a path towards the conservatory.

He had known that Sophia would bring Robin today and had deliberately taken a later flight. With that, he hadn't expected to be greeted by such a scene.

His mood soured instantly.

He walked a few steps before Estelle suddenly appeared before him. She, too, had seen the couple on the bench, her brow furrowing slightly. "Have you had lunch?" she asked Jason.

He nodded. "Had something on the plane. I'm not hungry."

His appetite had vanished anyway.

Estelle glanced once more at the couple by the trees and whispered, "Still haven't let go?"

Jason's lips curved into a wry smile. "It's always been like this. Letting go or not doesn't make a difference. I'm used to it."

Estelle feigned cheerfulness. "When I get back, I'll set you up with a girlfriend."

"Where are you off to?" Jason inquired.

"I've got to travel for a bit. You'll take care of the studio. Harriet will consult with you on issues of GK Jewelry studio. Please look after the company and our mentor," Estelle said and, thinking of Magdalen's words, she added, "And keep an eye on Sophia."

"How long will you be gone?" Jason's concern was evident.

"Not sure. A month, maybe two. I'll try to be back before the holidays," she replied, with a smile serene as ever.

Jason was worried. "Will it be dangerous?"

"No," Estelle assured him.

He nodded. "Call me if anything comes up, and stay in touch."

"Will do," Estelle responded, her demeanor calm and composed.