Chapter 1129:

Ken and Jayden were already wearing aprons and firing up the grill. Edward sauntered to Jayden, his voice dripping with arrogance. “You sprinted off like you were about to perform miracles, but here you are, just grilling meat. You’d better make it exceptional. If it’s subpar, don’t blame me for being harsh.” Jayden glanced at the smirking Edward, his eyes brimming with a mixture of pity and amusement. He plastered on a fake smile and replied, “Rest assured, I’ll make the barbecue so delectable, you’ll be more than satisfied.” Edward reveled in what he perceived as Jayden’s subservient tone. He nodded approvingly, speaking with an air of self-importance. “Don’t say I’m being too hard on you. If the food disappoints and Elyse is unhappy, she’ll be furious. I’m only looking out for your best interests.” Jayden responded coolly, “I understand completely. Don’t worry.” Elyse, observing Jayden’s playful manipulation of Edward, felt a twinge of sympathy for the oblivious man. However, she decided it was best not to interfere and let the scene unfold naturally. Edward’s laughter rang out, tinged with bitterness. “You’re just jealous because you can’t have it. If I were you, I’d zip it and fall in line. Remember, Elyse didn’t promise to whip up a barbecue feast for you.” Jayden’s lips curled into a cold smirk. Who said he couldn’t have it? Even if denied, he’d find a way. How could he possibly miss out on the food his wife cooked? As they pulled into the ranch, the owner and her husband stood waiting in the parking lot. “Sweetie, come here! I’ve got a treat ready for you,” the ranch owner called out, waving enthusiastically from afar. Elyse bounded out of the car, rushing towards her with a spring in her step. After embracing Elyse warmly, the ranch owner gestured to her husband. “This is my better half. Just call him Ken.” Elyse cocked her head, eyes twinkling with curiosity. “You haven’t told me your name yet.” “Linda! I’m the ever-cheerful Linda,” she giggled, playfully ducking into Ken’s arms. Ken enveloped Linda in a tender embrace, his eyes brimming with adoration. Their happiness was palpable. A twinge of envy pricked at Elyse’s heart, despite the joy she witnessed in their relationship. For reasons she couldn’t quite pinpoint, it stung a little. 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 with 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. . . .