On Saturday night, Gabriel hosted a gathering in one of the private rooms at the Midnight Bar.
By eight o’clock, everyone had arrived.
Gabriel stood and announced the news of his marriage to Sylvia. After a stunned silence, the room erupted into cheers and congratulations.
Estelle and Magdalen, who were already in on the secret, were just as excited as the rest. Magdalen, overwhelmed by a surge of emotion she couldn’t quite put into words, hugged Sylvia. “I’m so happy for you!”
Sylvia laughed. “I owe a big thank you to you, our matchmaker!”
Magdalen’s smile was dazzling. “Absolutely! One of these days, I need to pay Old Mr. Jarvis a visit and collect my matchmaker’s reward!”
Estelle offered a gentle smile. “With your persistence, there’s no way you’ll miss out on your prize!”
Magdalen flashed a playful, proud grin. “But in the end, Gabriel’s the real hero here. Congratulations!”
Gabriel replied with a modest smile, “Thank you!”
After the initial excitement, everyone found their seats. The men began drinking and chatting, but—almost as if by tacit agreement—no one lit a cigarette.
On the sofa nearby, Magdalen pulled Sylvia down next to her and, still excited, asked, “So when’s the wedding? Have you set a date?”
Sylvia answered, “We’re planning for early fall, and you all are invited.”
Magdalen gave her a mischievous grin. “A few months away—maybe Ella will have to design you a bigger wedding gown!”
Sylvia understood the hint and grinned graciously. “Well, if that happens, it’ll be double the good news. You’ll owe us a double wedding present!”
Magdalen laughed heartily. “You got it!”
Emily chimed in slyly, “Maybe Sylvia will have to return the favor with a gift of her own.”
Everyone caught her meaning and broke into laughter.
Sylvia glanced over at Norah, who was sitting next to Estelle, and said with a warm smile, “Alright, let’s not tease anymore—Norah’s still just a kid!”
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