Chapter 955
“She hasn’t been feeling well lately. Besides, it’s a small banquet, and there’s no need to tire her out,” Romello explained calmly.
Jacintha giggled, her compliments sounding natural as she said, “Mr. Romello, you’re so responsible! With your leadership, the Nicholls family will surely flourish.”
“Thank you for your kind words,” Romello replied with a somewhat indifferent smile.
The servant who went to find Nathaniel quickly returned, a concerned expression on his
face.
“Mr. Romello, Mr. Nathaniel isn’t in his room. I couldn’t find him anywhere.”
Romello’s expression darkened instantly, muttering under his breath, “How could he disappear right before the banquet? Find him immediately!”
“Yes, sir.”
The servant hurriedly darted off.
Lionel and Jacintha exchanged glances, sensing the tension in the air.
As if realizing something, Jacintha quickly changed the subject, “Mr. Romello, did you plan the banquet all by yourself? It’s so exquisitely arranged. Could I ask you for some advice?”
Lionel chimed in, “Mr. Romello, what’s wrong? It’s supposed to be a joyous occasion tonight, but you seem a bit displeased.”
Romello softened his stern gaze and continued to smile politely.
He was about to respond to Jacintha’s question when he noticed the butler hurrying
toward them.
“Mr. Romello…” the butler began, but Sheena interrupted him.
“Where’s Gabrielle? I haven’t seen her around. She usually loves these lively events,”
Sheena asked with a gentle smile.
Caught off guard, the butler replied, “Ms. Gabrielle is probably still in her room getting reacy. Mr. Romello bought her a new pair of crystal earrings the other day, so she might still be deciding on which to wear.”
“I see…” Sheena nodded understandingly.
“Excuse me, Mrs. Jenkins, I have something urgent to discuss with Mr. Romello,” the butler said, attempting to move past Sheena.
Sheena blocked his path, politely insisting, “The Nicholls residence is so large, and I’m unfamiliar with the layout. Could you please accompany me to find Gabrielle’s room?”
“Well…”
Sheena continued, “I’m sure Mr. Romello is busy with the guests, and any urgent matters can wait until after the banquet.”
The butler hesitated for a moment. He glanced over to where Romello was occupied with Lionel and Jacintha.
Seeing that Romello’s attention was completely diverted, the butler relented.
“Alright. Mrs. Jenkins, please follow me.”
“Thank you.”
A minute later, Nathaniel emerged from the mansion, stepping out and surveying the crowd in the garden, his gaze eventually settling on Elliot.
Elliot immediately sensed his presence, and the two shared a silent exchange.
Romello, still engrossed in conversation with Lionel and Jacintha, was growing impatient.
Spotting Nathaniel’s arrival, he quickly dismissed Lionel and Jacintha, striding over to Nathaniel.
“Why did you take so long to come down? Where were you just now?” Romello
demanded.
Nathaniel kept his head down, obediently replying, “I’m not sure what happened, but my stomach was upset. I had to use the toilet for quite some time.”
Though Romello was clearly displeased, he could not publicly criticize Nathaniel for a basic bodily need, especially in front of so many guests.
After composing himself, Romello continued, “How are the preparations going? There’s no room for failure tonight. Do you understand?”
“Yes, don’t worry. I’ll execute everything perfectly.”
Romello begrudgingly accepted his response, emitting a couple of disdainful snorts before turning away
