Chapter 1099:

Post-meal, exhaustion enveloped them both. They selected a hotel with extra caution and checked in. Elyse, still haunted by memories of their last dismal motel stay, insisted that Jayden inspect every inch of the bathroom for hidden passages before she dared shower.

After they freshened up, exhaustion won, and they collapsed into a deep sleep until morning. Upon waking, Elyse massaged her temples and lamented, “Sleeping too much has given me a terrible headache.”

Already dressed, Jayden proposed, “Let’s head out for breakfast. I’m absolutely starving.” Elyse agreed and began gathering her clothes. As she picked up her outfit, she paused, feeling Jayden’s gaze on her.

Turning abruptly, she snapped, “Why are you staring? I’m trying to change. Turn around!”

Jayden, feigning confusion, retorted, “I’ve seen it all before. I’ve even bathed you. What’s the big deal now?”

“We’re divorced!” Elyse fired back, visibly annoyed.

Remaining in his chair, Jayden’s tone was teasing yet firm. “As I’ve said before, being divorced doesn’t change a thing. You’ll always be mine.”

Too exasperated to continue, Elyse took her clothes and retreated to the bathroom. Since Jayden wasn’t moving, she decided to distance herself. After changing, she emerged and declared firmly, “I’m ready. Let’s go.”

Jayden stood and deftly encircled Elyse’s waist with his arm. Clearly annoyed, Elyse snapped, “Can you treat me with some respect?”

Unyielding, Jayden countered, “Come on, I get uneasy if I’m not close to you. Deny me your closeness, and I’ll be plunged into misery.”

Unmoved by his dramatics, Elyse briskly removed his hand. “Well, you might just have to endure that misery.” Realizing her rejection, Jayden felt a pang of helplessness. He regretted not having Peyton by his side, perhaps as his tactical advisor.

Departing the hotel, they stumbled upon a quaint café and settled in for breakfast. After their meal, they ventured out. Pausing on the street, Elyse felt a wave of indecision. With numerous shops lining the street, she was at a loss for where to begin.

Observing her hesitation, Jayden queried, “You wanted to shop, right? What’s stopping you?”

Looking lost, Elyse admitted, “I’m not sure which shop to choose.”

“Just pick any that catches your eye; no need to overthink it,” Jayden encouraged.

Nodding, Elyse recognized the wisdom in his words, yet felt no urge to explore the shops. After wandering for a while, she suggested, “Maybe you should head back. These shops don’t intrigue me. Why not go back to the hotel?”

Taking a leisurely sip of his coffee, Jayden questioned, “What makes you think I don’t enjoy just walking around with you?”

Elyse, trying to be candid, replied, “Well, it’s common knowledge that most men aren’t fans of shopping.” …