Chapter 1128:

A twinge of envy pricked Elyse’s heart, despite the joy she witnessed in their relationship. For reasons she couldn’t pinpoint, it stung.

Instinctively, Elyse glanced back to see Jayden approaching, his face a mask of indifference. She pouted inwardly, thinking Jayden would probably never learn to dote on her the way Ken did Linda.

As Jayden drew near, his brow furrowed in confusion. “Why are you staring at me?”

“Who said I was looking at you? Don’t flatter yourself,” Elyse huffed, unaware of the irritation creeping into her voice.

Jayden arched an eyebrow. Noticing Edward was preoccupied with greeting Linda and Ken, he leaned in close, his breath tickling Elyse’s ear. “You were totally eyeing me. Bet you wish I’d hold you like Ken does Linda.” With that, Jayden mischievously blew a soft puff of air into Elyse’s ear, light as gossamer.

Elyse shivered involuntarily, her hand flying to cover her ear as her face flushed crimson. She darted away, scolding, “Don’t treat me like that.”

Jayden didn’t miss the telltale redness blooming on her cheeks. He straightened up, his tone suddenly serious. “Alright, I’ll do as you say.”

Elyse knew Jayden was teasing her, but she chose to ignore him. She linked arms with Linda and strode ahead briskly.

Linda, perplexed by their pace, asked, “What’s the rush? Are you that hungry?”

Elyse nodded emphatically. “Famished. Let’s go feast on some barbecue.”

“Hold on! We can’t handle all the grilling ourselves. We’ve got three strapping men here. Let them cook!” Linda exclaimed, then spun around, calling out to the men, “Whoever grills the best meat gets a special reward!”

Ken sprang into action, dashing ahead. Jayden followed hot on Ken’s heels. Edward stood rooted to the spot, bewildered. He hadn’t quite caught Linda’s words, so he hurried to catch up with Elyse, curiosity evident in his voice. “What did Linda just say? Why did they bolt like that?”

Elyse felt a twinge of awkwardness, but before she could respond, Linda interjected seriously, “Don’t fret about it. You can stroll with us.”

Edward’s face split into a grin. “Fine by me.” As he spoke, his gaze surreptitiously drifted toward Elyse. With Jayden out of earshot, Edward saw his golden opportunity.

But before Edward could formulate his plan to charm Elyse, they arrived at the barbecue area. . . .