Hired a Gigolo, Got a Billionaire

Chapter 320 Dinner turned out to be exactly what I needed. It was chaotic, loud, and overflowing with love. Nate's large dining table had more than enough room for all nine of us, yet everyone chose to sit close together anyway, creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Pizza boxes covered the center of the table alongside open bottles of wine, plates with leftovers from the Valentian appetizers Nate had ordered, and half-full glasses that were constantly being refilled. Conversations overlapped in a familiar symphony of animated voices.

Matthew was in the middle of a hilarious story about a cultural misunderstanding he'd experienced in the Imperial City, gesturing so wildly he nearly knocked over his wine glass twice. Oliver and Sarah were laughing to the point of tears at something Christian had said about the quirks of doing business in Verdania. Zoey and Gwen were whispering about some piece of gossip that almost certainly involved someone from Valentian high society.

Tori was completely in her element, asking questions about everyone's lives and absorbing every detail as if she were mentally cataloging it all for future use. Nate moved around the table like a natural host, making sure everyone had enough food and that the conversations flowed effortlessly. I found myself watching it all with a deep sense of contentment. There was something magical about seeing such different worlds blend so naturally-my warm, loud Verdanian family, the more reserved but equally affectionate Brits, and Gwen bringing her effortless Valentian elegance.

It felt like all these people from such different cultures had always belonged in my life. "Annie, you're very quiet," Zoey noticed at one point, gently nudging me. "Are you okay?" "I'm just... taking all of this in," I said honestly, gesturing toward the table full of people I loved. "It's surreal- in a good way." Christian raised his wine glass. "A toast," he announced, and the conversations slowly quieted. "To family.

crystal. As the night went on, the inevitable goodbyes began. Oliver was the first to mention that they needed to leave. "Unfortunately, we've got a long drive back to Bath," he said, checking the time. "Can I hitch a

that familiar big-brother tone. 1/3 Chapter 320 [ +25 Bonus "At least I warn you before invading your house," Tori shot back. "Unlike when you used to show

house immediately felt quieter without Oliver and Sarah's vibrant energy and Tori's naturally animated presence. Gwen was the next to say goodbye, but in a much more subdued way. "I'm going to stay in London for now," Gwen said as

after Gwen left before announcing: "Well, I'm heading out too!" He kissed Zoey and me goodbye, shook hands' with Christian and Nate, and practically sprinted for the door. "They're not even trying to hide it," Christian muttered, shaking his head with amusement. Christian and Zoey stayed a little longer

how she absentmindedly played with the buttons of his shirt while they talked. "How long are you staying in London?" I asked,