Chapter 1163:

Edward replied, “There doesn’t always need to be a significant reason. It can be something trivial, like crossing paths on the way home, finding the person irritating, or both wanting the same thing. That’s just how boys are. Often, logic doesn’t enter into it. The one with the stronger punch just ends the dispute.”

Elyse pondered his words, then slowly said, “You guys are pretty straightforward, aren’t you?”

Edward took a drink of his whiskey and took a deep breath before replying, “That’s how boys are when they’re young. As they mature, they’re more cautious. But sometimes, even grown men throw caution to the wind and fight over a woman.” He continued, “Our fight was about you. Specifically. We were fighting to see who could be your boyfriend.”

Elyse opened her mouth but was at a loss for words.

“That’s right, Jayden and I fought. The condition was that the loser would back off. I lost, so I’m stepping back.”

Stunned, Elyse responded with anger in her voice. “Are you insane? I made my rejection clear before. Why did you feel the need to fight him off?”

Edward stroked his chin and replied, “Did you think your rejection would stop me? For someone like me, who prides himself on his achievements, striving for the woman I want comes naturally. Your rejection didn’t deter me from pursuing you.”

Hearing this, Elyse rolled her eyes in frustration. “You really think too highly of yourself.”

“You just don’t know how men think,” Edward responded. “We’re simple creatures. Our minds don’t hold much, just a bunch of trivial things.”

Elyse felt anger initially, but she soon recognized that Edward no longer chasing her might be for the best.

She gently lifted her glass and took a delicate sip. Just then, Edward, seated opposite her, inquired, “Do you know how to make a man driven by conquest lose interest?”

Startled, Elyse set down her glass and slowly shook her head, saying, “No idea.”

Edward replied, “If my rival surprises me, I withdraw because I’ve been bested. Jayden can offer you the stability I cannot.”

Edward’s statement made Elyse shift uncomfortably, pulling away from him with unease.

Noticing something off about him today, she voiced her confusion, saying, “Why are you talking in such puzzling riddles about love today?”

Edward’s gaze was tender but firm as he looked deeply at her.

“I see you are avoiding your true feelings, Elyse. Don’t flee from them. Facing this is a necessary part of life. Even if it leads to unpleasant experiences, you must confront them. It’s a lesson you need to learn.”

Elyse said hesitantly, “Tonight, you seem like someone I don’t know. You’re usually not like this.”

Edward laughed and responded, “Everyone has many sides. If I seem unfamiliar, it’s because you haven’t fully known me.”

After a pause, Elyse nodded. “You’re right. I’ve only ever seen one aspect of you. I haven’t really been a great friend.”