Chapter 1032:

He paused by Elyse instead of following them, reassuring her, “Ignore Kaelyn. I’ll tap into my networks and uncover the truth about Jayden. She’s cornered and resorting to deceit—it’s typical.” He cast a wary glance at Kaelyn, who sat defiantly in the vehicle, and continued, “She’s desperate, so her lies are to be expected.”

Elyse nodded, her voice steady. “Don’t worry. I get it. And knowing Jayden, with his sharp wit, it’s hard to imagine him dead.”

Theo opened his mouth to respond, but the sorrow in Elyse’s eyes made him hold back. He gently patted her shoulder, offering a comforting assurance. “Don’t worry. You have my support. You’re not alone in this.”

Elyse was briefly startled, then nodded. “Thank you.”

Edward quickly stepped up, brushing past Theo, and declared, “It’s getting late. I’ll drive you home.” With a sharp glare at Theo, he escorted Elyse toward his car.

Unperturbed, Theo touched his nose lightly and headed toward his own vehicle. Inside, Kaelyn and Mabel were already seated.

Theo settled in between them, resting his arms on their shoulders and pulling them close. “We need to head back and have a serious talk,” he suggested, tightening his grip. He then murmured into Kaelyn’s ear, stressing every syllable, “Especially you, my dear ex-girlfriend. You’ve piqued my curiosity.”

Kaelyn tensed, a chill running down her spine at his insinuating tone. She was filled with fury. If it hadn’t been for Mabel’s interference, how could Theo have trapped her like this? Mabel shrank back, intimidated by Kaelyn’s fierce look. Feeling unfairly treated, Mabel huddled into herself. After all, it had been Kaelyn who had entangled herself with Hyde, causing Mabel deep emotional wounds. Why then was Kaelyn so harsh with her? What had she done to deserve this treatment?

Watching the obvious and subtle tension between the two, Theo’s lips curved into a sly smile. He relished the turmoil, already plotting to use their animosities to his benefit.

Elyse returned to the Moon Palace with drooping shoulders, lugging her violin case. Her steps were slow and heavy as she made her way to her room.

Edward quickly approached her, worry evident in his eyes. “Are you okay? Do you need me to stay with you tonight?”

Elyse gently declined. “No, thank you. I just need some rest. Let’s talk tomorrow, okay?”

Edward paused briefly before suggesting, “Tomorrow’s a day off. What do you say we have some fun at the amusement park? I’ve never actually taken you on a date.”

Caught off guard, Elyse was about to decline, but Edward quickly added, “Don’t say no!”