Chapter 111:

Elyse's husband had prepared afternoon tea. "Guys, please join us," he announced cheerfully. The orchestra manager was delighted; the complimentary tea provided an excellent opportunity to ingratiate himself with the television station executives. As the group dispersed, only Kaelyn and Theo remained.

Ignoring them, Jayden prepared to leave with Elyse. The sight of them together irked Theo, prompting him to step forward. "You can't possibly make Elyse happy," he said. "If you're kind, you'll let her go."

Jayden gave him a sidelong glance. "You're not in any position to tell me what to do," he retorted. "Just watch. I won't let you have what you want." Theo's frustration was evident.

Elyse, taken aback by Theo's outburst, wondered about his motives. "Then try to take her back if you think you can," Jayden responded indifferently, leading Elyse away.

As they walked, Elyse looked back at Jayden and asked, "Aren't you upset?"

Jayden retorted, "Do you want me to be upset?"

"I'm not sure," Elyse confessed, feeling troubled. "Theo's behavior is baffling. He's been following me around, even suggesting I should divorce you."

Jayden laughed softly. "Don't listen to him. Taking him seriously would be as absurd as a pig climbing a tree."

Elyse chuckled and nodded, acknowledging the irony of Theo demanding a divorce while having an affair with Kaelyn.

"There's an event in two days; come with me," Jayden invited.

"Sure," Elyse agreed readily.

Days later, at a charity event, Elyse, clad in a dark green dress, arrived with Jayden. Despite his wheelchair, Jayden still commanded attention. Occasionally, people glanced their way. Unfazed, Elyse fetched desserts and red wine for Jayden.

"I sense some tension in the air tonight," Elyse remarked as she returned, observing the attendees' serious and guarded expressions. "The head of the Bayzee Group is here. If Bayzee enters specific markets, local property values could skyrocket. So, tonight feels more like a business meeting than a charity event."

Elyse remembered that Bayzee Group had gone public last year and expanded rapidly due to successful investments. She knew the company's president was reclusive and that it might be the acting president present. Turning to Jayden, she asked curiously, "Are you considering a partnership with the Bayzee Group?"

Jayden nodded calmly. "Somewhat. The potential benefits far outweigh the risks, making it a worthwhile venture."

Elyse nodded thoughtfully.

Brook approached, sharply dressed, wine glass in hand, his smile wide. Elyse was surprised to see him and felt uneasy, remembering their last encounter. "You haven't attended these kinds of events in over a year," he said. "What brings you out tonight? Are you comfortable here?"

Staring at Jayden, Brook asked, his tone light but probing, "What brings you out tonight?"

Jayden replied coolly, "I'm just here to enjoy the evening. But what brings you to this charity event?"

With a hint of pride, Brook responded, "I'm here on business. Unlike you, I don't have the luxury of a beautiful companion to simply pass the time."

After Brook's remark, Jayden affectionately patted Elyse's hand and said, "You're right. It is wonderful to have a beautiful woman by my side."

Elyse blushed and looked down. Brook watched their affectionate interaction, a sly smile crossing his face. "You two seem closer than ever."

Unperturbed, Jayden retorted, "If you're envious, find yourself a partner."

"No need. I'm just here to fulfill my obligations. I don't have time for romantic distractions," Brook said before moving on. He raised his glass to Elyse, remarking pointedly, "Enjoy the charity event tonight, okay?"

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