Chapter 24 A Bet
The meal had just concluded, and William was holding his suit jacket.
“William, Mabel,” Gary greeted as he approached.
It was quite surprising to see them here.
“What brings you here?” William inquired, his deep voice carrying a hint of cool detachment.
+5 Pearls
Those familiar with him would understand this was just his nature, while those who didn’t might interpret his tone as aloofness.
“I came out to have dinner with friends. Have you eater yet? If not, join us.”
“We’ve just finished,” William replied.
“Then why not come in and have a seat for a while?” Gary suggested, hoping it would be a chance for the two to meet Lisette, like old friends reconnecting.
“Not today. We have other plans later,” William said.
see.”
Noticing Gary’s slight disappointment, Mabel smiled warmly. “We have plenty of chances. When we’re all free, we should all get together so you and your friends can meet us.”
“That sounds good,” Gary agreed.
“Then we’ll be on our way,” William said.
“Alright.”
As they left, Mabel glanced into a private dining room
Inside, a woman with long, curly hair was on the phone, her head tilted slightly, hiding her face behind the curtain of her hair. Only her slender fingers and a glimpse of a pale wrist were visible.
Mabel smiled to herself.
As she and William descended the stairs, Mabel saw Gary entering that private room. Her smile grew.
“Do you know what you just missed?” Mabel asked, wrapping her arm around William’s and leaning in with a playful, flirtatious tone.
William glanced at her. “What?”
“Gary’s future wife.”
William raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical.
Seeing his doubt, Mabel continued, “I saw the girl in the room. Look at Gary–he hasn’t been seen with any woman in the past two years. She must be someone special to him.”
Mabel seemed surprised. “Why not?”
Her conviction was almost palpable, as if she was certain.
William didn’t respond as he reached the car and opened the door for her.
Mabel hesitated, refusing to get in until he answered her.
William sighed. “Until something is decided, there’s always room for change.”
So, he’s saying he’s not sure.
Mabel stood there for a moment, unsure of how to respond.
William got into the car, started the engine, and noticed she was still standing outside, lost in thought.
He rested one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the car window, watching her.
Mabel glanced at him, a flicker of something in her eyes.
She got in and faced William. “Is it possible that we might break up before we get
William’s dark eyes shifted, the intensity deepening.
Within that depth was a hint of uncertainty that he hadn’t fully acknowledged.
married?”
Mabel pursed her lips, lifting her chin slightly. “I believe that if someone truly loves another person, they will end up together.”
She turned to William. “Let’s make a bet. If Gary ends up with the woman he wants, then our wedding day will be the same as his. If not, we’ll break up.”
William’s gaze darkened with intrigue, his eyes shifting with interest.
Mabel smiled confidently, as always. “William, are you willing to take this bet?”
