Chapter 1011:

Elyse sighed. “Although I understand your feelings toward Mabel, was it necessary to strike her in my presence?”

Theo tilted his head. “Are you feeling sympathy for her? Don’t bother. She is utterly ungrateful. She’ll neither appreciate it nor change her ways.”

Elyse rubbed her temples wearily. “Enough, I get it. I know her true colors. She’s never truly seen me as her family.”

Theo reassured her, “Don’t fret. I’ll take care of Kaelyn. You’ve suffered enough because of her.”

Elyse shook her head. The past was done. Dwelling on it would only extend her suffering.

After a moment, Elyse said softly, “I hope you can also let go of the past and move forward.”

Theo remained silent, ensnared in memories of Elyse, unable to shake the past. It seemed his true worth shimmered only in those fleeting moments when he felt cherished.

He pondered whether love was essentially about being acknowledged and chosen with unwavering certainty. He had been on the cusp of true love once, just a step shy. Sadly, he had missed it.

Every day, Theo lamented his choices. Why had he let arrogance and recklessness lead him to hurt someone who had genuinely loved him? There were words he yearned to share with Elyse, yet he knew those opportunities had long since passed because Elyse no longer spared him her glances.

Drawing a deep breath, Theo caught up with Elyse and proposed, “I’ll take you back. Are we still heading to the Moon Palace?”

Surveying the solitary road, Elyse nodded. “Yes, please. Thank you.”

“It’s really no trouble. I actually find it quite pleasant,” Theo responded.

Elyse rolled her eyes. Once inside the car, she closed her eyes to rest.

Upon their arrival at the Moon Palace, Edward awaited her at the entrance. After bidding Theo goodbye, Elyse approached Edward. “Why are you here?”

“To escort you back,” Edward responded, his eyes sweeping over her. “The tour is tomorrow. Why are you out having fun instead of resting?”

“I need to resolve some issues first to focus on the tour,” Elyse explained.

“Well, ensure you rest thoroughly tonight. As our headliner, you can’t afford any slip-ups,” Edward advised, ushering Elyse toward the car.

Once Elyse settled inside, she yawned, overwhelmed by exhaustion.