The restaurant's ambiance seemed to grow colder as Jack stood alone in the dimly lit corner. His fingers danced anxiously over the sleek surface of his phone screen, repeatedly dialing the same number. Each ring resonated with increasing urgency, but there was no response on the other end. Frustration clawed at him, and he hung up the phone with a dismissive backhand motion, his brows furrowing in deep contemplation.
"Perhaps," he muttered to himself, "I'd be better off asking her in person when we meet."
Meanwhile, Georgia's heart raced as she rushed out of the restaurant, propelled by a whirlwind of emotions. She navigated through the bustling streets, each step carrying her closer to the sanctuary of her hotel room. As she sank onto the edge of the bed, the echoes of their heated confrontation still reverberated in her mind.
"Ding Ling -" Her mobile phone, sitting innocently on the bedside table, jolted her back to reality. Trembling, she cast an anxious glance at the screen and found Xiao Han's name illuminating the display. She hastily tapped the answer button.
"Hello? Georgia, where are you?" Xiao Han's voice, laced with concern, flooded her ears.
Georgia replied softly, her voice betraying a hint of vulnerability, "I'm back at the hotel. I'm not feeling very well."
"What's wrong? Do you need to see a doctor?"
A mixture of relief and gratitude washed over her as she replied, "No, maybe I just didn't sleep well last night. I'm not in a great mood." Georgia carefully constructed an excuse, wanting to shield Xiao Han from the full weight of her turmoil.
"Alright, get some rest then."
Taking a deep breath, Georgia continued, "Xiao Han, please tell Sister Lan for me that I won't be able to attend the afternoon activities. I just want to rest."
Xiao Han's understanding tone warmed her heart as she said, "Okay, you can call me if you need anything."
"Thanks."
With the call ended, Georgia lay back on the bed, her thoughts swirling in a chaotic whirlwind. Her disagreement with Cheng Lu had left a lingering unease, but what gnawed at her even more was the vivid image of Jack and Su Ling together. It was an unsettling picture, and she found herself unable to muster the enthusiasm to participate in the afternoon events.
Drawing the curtains closed, she decided to take a short nap, hoping that the respite would help clear her mind. Unbeknownst to her, she slipped into a deep slumber that extended well into the late afternoon.
When Georgia finally roused from her dreams, the room was cast in the hushed embrace of night.
Banging resounded from the door, accompanied by multiple insistent calls from Xiao Han.
Panic coursed through her as she hastily sat up, shuffling over to the door. Her robe clung to her form as she opened it, revealing a disheveled appearance.
"What's wrong?" she inquired with genuine concern.
Seeing her safe and sound, Xiao Han exhaled a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. "You scared me! I called you so many times, but there was no answer. I even banged on the door, but you didn't respond. I was really worried!"
Georgia, now more awake, rubbed her eyes and managed a small, apologetic smile. "I was just taking a nap..."
Xiao Han, her anxiety beginning to wane, patted Georgia's shoulder, her relief evident. "Go wash your face, and let's go out for dinner. We can make up for it tonight with a wonderful meal together!"
With renewed vigor, Georgia freshened up, cleansing away the remnants of sleep from her face. She joined Xiao Han, and together, they made their way to a spacious dining room within the hotel.
That evening, they dined together in a lavish private room, surrounded by the joviality of their colleagues.
Xiao Han led Georgia to a quiet corner, where an exquisite spread of dishes awaited them.
Director Lan, sensing the harmonious atmosphere, raised her glass and stood up. She beckoned everyone to join in the collective celebration. "Tonight is truly a special occasion. Let us raise our glasses to this wonderful gathering."
Laughter and camaraderie filled the room as every guest, in unity, stood up and clinked their glasses together, toasting to the bond that had brought them all together.
Dadong, sporting a warm smile, added a touch of humor to the moment. "Ladies, don't be shy. We have a special fruit wine from our estate tonight. It's incredibly sweet! Our male counterparts are indulging in white wine, but feel free to choose whatever suits your palate!"
Amidst the festive atmosphere, the clinking of glasses continued, each toast symbolizing not just a celebration of the evening but also a testament to the enduring bonds that united them as colleagues and friends.