Chapter 114:

Joanna's gaze remained fixed on Elyse. After Elyse's disappearance, Jayden's men scoured the city searching for her. Their frantic efforts even reached Enzo. Elyse's importance to Jayden seemed far greater than anyone had imagined.

This thought tightened Joanna's fists, fueling a surge of jealousy and resentment. No one had ever valued her so profoundly. The feeling of being taken seriously was entirely foreign to her. She recognized her jealousy of Elyse, even though Elyse's affection was directed at someone Joanna had previously dismissed as useless.

"You're fortunate, Elyse," Joanna said, her voice dripping with bitterness. "To encounter the man I abandoned and build a happy life."

Elyse met Joanna's gaze with a derisive sneer. "Your choices are your own," she retorted. "They have no bearing on me. You envy my deep love with Jayden, don't you?"

Instead of anger, Joanna chuckled, a chilling sound. "I admire your sharp tongue," she remarked, her eyes menacing as they fell upon the vulnerable Elyse on the ground. "You've successfully incensed me."

Elyse's nerves prickled at Joanna's ominous intent. "What are you planning?" she asked anxiously.

Without answering, Joanna turned and left the basement, a sly smile playing on her lips. Fear pounded in Elyse's chest. She desperately prayed for Jayden's swift return.

Joanna went directly to Jayden's residence. The household staff and security were preoccupied with the search, giving her unimpeded access. No one stopped her.

On the second floor, Joanna cautiously approached Jayden's room. She gently pushed open the partially open door and peered inside. Jayden sat in his wheelchair, his back to the door, gazing out the window.

From behind, Joanna sensed his sadness, a silent worry, perhaps for Elyse. Was he worried about her? Suppressing her jealousy, she summoned her courage, opened the door further, and softened her voice. "Jayden, Elyse is missing. My heart aches for you, so I came to keep you company."

Jayden's response was a frigid, "Fuck off."

Undeterred, Joanna spotted the kettle. She poured water, concealing her plan to drug him. While he remained unaware, she surreptitiously slipped the drug into a glass and approached him.

"Jayden, please have some water," she urged, trying to sound reassuring. "Worrying about Elyse will only drain you. Be patient. Let's focus on what we can control."

"Be patient?" Jayden replied skeptically. "It's been nearly two days, and you say this?"

Joanna's heart skipped a beat. "I speak from the heart," she continued. "Your distress clouds your judgment. Perhaps clarity will show a path forward."

"What brings you here?" Jayden asked, finally looking at her.

Maintaining her composure, Joanna brought the glass to his lips. "I'm here out of genuine concern. In turmoil, one mustn't neglect their well-being. Please take a sip. Hydration is key, especially now."

Jayden casually took the glass, examining it. As he lifted it, Joanna's nerves tightened. But then, he set it down, a faint smile touching his lips. "Are you truly insistent on my drinking this?"

Joanna managed a gentle smile. "I noticed your lips were dry. It's nothing to worry about."

"I'm not thirsty," Jayden replied, handing the glass back. "Perhaps you should have it."

Startled, Joanna's grip faltered. The glass slipped, shattering on the floor.

"Get out," Jayden roared, his fury evident in the bulging blue veins on his neck.

Joanna was momentarily stunned, but then reminded herself of his confinement to a wheelchair. How dare he be so arrogant?

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