Chapter 2440

Linda had reserved a private room at the 9th Mansion well in advance, and the group drove over, their spirits lifted by the festive atmosphere that enveloped J City. The streets were ablaze with twinkling lights, painting the night in vibrant colors and filling the air with a palpable sense of joy, even from within the confines of their car.

As Sylvia gazed out at the kaleidoscope of lights, her thoughts inevitably drifted to him.

Missing him had become a habit, something ingrained deep within her.

She wondered if he celebrated holidays at all. Probably not, she mused; he never seemed to care much for such occasions.

And would he, even for a moment, think of her?

With a self-deprecating smile, Sylvia scoffed at the thought. Of course, he wouldn't. Matters of the heart never seemed to catch his interest.

The holidays, it seemed, were the most he was willing to offer.

Looking up at the night sky, she sent a silent prayer his way, hoping against hope that he was well.

Upon arriving at the 9th Mansion and making their way to the sixth floor, Sylvia was ushered ahead. The moment the doors swung open, she was greeted by a sea of flowers, which left her momentarily stunned.

Eugene emerged from amidst the blooms, a large bouquet of roses in hand. The flowers, a fiery shade of red, seemed to mirror Sylvia's own elegance under the soft glow of the room's lighting.

"Happy holidays!" he said, offering her the bouquet.

A collective gasp and murmurs of admiration filled the room behind her.

Sylvia turned to see Milanda, who offered a sheepish grin before quickly ducking behind Linda.

Linda laughed, "I'll confess, it was Eugene who contacted me. He suggested we all spend the holiday together, with him arranging the decorations while we were responsible for bringing you here."

Eugene's smile was gentle, "Please, don't be upset. It was my idea to rally everyone. If you're angry, direct it at me."

Accepting the flowers, Sylvia smiled softly, "Why would I be upset? Everyone's here to celebrate together."

Only then did everyone relax, crowding around Sylvia as they moved further into the room.

"To everyone," Eugene announced, "feel free to order anything you like. I'll be covering all expenses tonight."

Cheers erupted as the guests began to order drinks and food.

Eugene took a seat next to Sylvia, his voice tinged with apology, "I hope you're

not upset about not being informed in advance about this plan?"

Sylvia chuckled lightly, shaking her head, "Not at all."

"I knew you'd be spending the holiday alone in J City. I didn't want you to go back to a quiet home on such a festive occasion, so I

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discussed it with everyone to liven things up a bit," Eugene explained, his light blue sweater complementing his handsome features and warm demeanor.

"Thank you, really. It means a lot that everyone would choose to spend time with me instead of their own families," Sylvia said with a grateful smile.

"The pleasure is all ours. For example, I couldn't be happier to be spending the

holiday with you," Eugene replied, his gaze intense yet warm.

Sylvia smiled, "Thank you, and thanks to everyone."

Eugene's expression grew more serious, "Sylvia, I hope we can be friends. You know how I feel about you, and don't expect you to reciprocate my feelings

immediately. I just hope you won't push me away." sŵnovel

Her smile fading slightly, Sylvia felt the lively atmosphere wasn't the right setting

for such a conversation, but she believed clarity was necessary, "Eugene, there's someone else in my heart."

"I know," Eugene acknowledged, his thoughts briefly touching on the formidable presence of the other man, his smile softening despite the sadness in his eyes, "Being friends is enough for me, just don't avoid me."

Sylvia's smile was gentle and sincere, "We're not children; there's no reason for such emotional games."

Eugene looked at her deeply, "Part of me wishes you would be a little emotional towards me."