Chapter 1023:

“He broke up with Fiona? They were together what, ten days? And they’ve split already?” Darren expressed his shock before his expression softened. He grabbed his glass and walked over to Quinn.

Quinn was nearly drunk by the time Darren approached; he squinted at him, uncertain. “Who are you? What do you want?”

“Just don’t drink by yourself. Let me join you,” Darren said, his voice ringing with compassion. Elyse returned her focus to her meal and beverage when Edward approached her.

In contrast to Darren and Quinn, Edward was accustomed to drinking heavily and mingling at lively social events. Clutching a glass, his cheeks rosy from laughter, he approached with a teasing grin. “Do you have any plans tonight? Let’s go out. We haven’t really dated yet.”

Elyse gave him a quick look and responded with a teasing tone, “I’ve already made plans. I’m catching up with an old friend tonight, so I can’t go out with you.”

A look of disappointment crossed Edward’s face as he pouted. “I finally got a break from my dad’s official duties because of the celebration, and now you’re busy.”

Frustration was evident on Edward’s face. Laughing, Elyse suggested, “Why don’t you come along and meet my friend?”

Edward coughed softly, his grin returning. “If you’re inviting me, I’d be happy to join.”

Elyse warned, “Just so you know, I’m not particularly fond of this friend. I can’t predict how things will go.”

Edward burst out laughing. “Don’t worry. I can handle any situation. I’ll be fine with your friends.”

Elyse kept to herself that this “old friend” was actually a former romantic rival and now an adversary. Noticing her mischievous smile, Edward couldn’t resist asking, “What’s with that sly smile? This friend isn’t a man, right? Not another ex-boyfriend? How many exes do you have? I’ve dealt with you being married before, but another ex would be too much.”

Elyse laughed, “What are you talking about? Do you really think my love life is that complicated? She’s a woman, okay? A woman!”

Relieved, Edward exhaled. “Oh, good. I was worried for a moment there. I have enough rivals in love without adding another.”

“I didn’t ask you to chase after me. Now, please leave me alone and let me enjoy my drink,” Elyse said sharply, dismissing him.

Edward’s grin widened with a mischievous glint. “I’m not going anywhere. No matter how many exes you’ve got, I’m still going to win your heart, and I’ll make sure I’m your boyfriend someday.”