Chapter 2442

The party didn't break up until late, and everyone had been drinking, so they opted for designated drivers to get home safely.

Eugene insisted on driving Sylvia home himself, and amidst the playful teasing of their friends, Sylvia couldn't outright refuse without making it awkward.

Sitting in the backseat, Eugene handed Sylvia a bottle of her favorite passion fruit- flavored yogurt, "Got this for you."

Sylvia smiled, "When did you buy this?"

"Just now, while waiting for our ride. Saw the yogurt shop across the street. You've had quite a bit to drink, and I thought this might help settle your stomach. I even had them add in some granola and your favorite dried fruits. Give it a try." His eyes were warm in the dim light.

Sylvia took it, touched, "Thank you!"

"Don't mention it!" Eugene laughed, always maintaining that careful balance of distance, not wanting to overwhelm Sylvia, yet unwilling to stay too far away.

Holding the yogurt, Sylvia felt genuinely moved.

"Oh!" Eugene said with a laugh, "I've referred some business to your firm from a few of our partner companies. Don't worry, they are all long-time partners, and their teams are great. Nothing like that mess with Baron Barlow."

At the mention of Baron, Sylvia's thoughts naturally drifted to Gabriel, causing her

a moment of discomfort, though she kept her smile, "You didn't have to go out of your way for us, we're quite busy as it is."

"I know you're not all about the money, but I genuinely think the quality of your work deserves recognition," Eugene said, his handsome features relaxed and cheerful, “It's just a word from me. They benefit from your services and will probably end up thanking me!"

His well-chosen words and light-hearted jokes eased the atmosphere.

Sylvia smiled softly, "Still, thank you!"

"Then you owe me a meal when you land a big contract!" "Deal!"

When they arrived at Sylvia's place, Eugene also stopped his car and paid the designated driver. Turning to Sylvia, he said, "It's chilly out, head on up. Get some rest, and don't forget to finish your yogurt!

"Will do, drive safe!"

"Sure thing!"

As Sylvia turned to leave, Eugene, feeling a rush of emotions, stepped forward, "Sylvia-"

She stopped and turned back, "Something else?"

Under the beautiful night sky, his gaze was deep and affectionate, yet he found himself at a loss for words.

He could tell she saw him only as a friend, and it wasn't the right moment to express his feelings.

Eventually, he just waved it off, "Nothing, good night!"

Sylvia could see the depth of his feelings in his eyes. She nodded slightly and walked away.

Life's strange, Eugene thought, filled

with unrequited love, where people cherish them the most. Use who

can't provide warmth to warmth to

The matters of the heart, how many have been wounded by them?

That afternoon, Jason had decided to close the studio early and took Sophia out.

"Where to?" he asked.

Sophia turned to him, her short hair

framing her face beautifully, her expression bright, "Let's visit our mentor. Estelle's back in C City, and he's bound to complain we've forgotten about him!"

"Sure," Jason agreed without hesitation.