Chapter 1201:

“That’s not what I intended,” Jayden replied, his voice tinged with regret. “What exactly are you trying to do, then?” Peyton pressed, his patience thinning. “You claim to love her, so why is it so hard to treat her right?” Lacking conviction, Jayden admitted, “I believe I treat her well, but everyone around us disagrees.” “That’s your opinion,” Peyton pointed out sharply. “What truly counts is whether she feels loved and cherished by you.” Jayden muttered, resigned, “Alright. I get the message. No more lectures, please.” Peyton sneered. “Alright, I’ll stop. But now, please leave. I need some quiet.” Jayden was promptly ushered out of the room. Hardy was standing at the door, his gaze intense. Jayden remembered Hardy was a prominent mercenary. “What do you need?” Jayden inquired. “When you get back to your room, don’t accept anything from Amanda, and keep your distance from her,” Hardy advised before swiftly departing. Jayden was left contemplating Hardy’s warning when Amanda approached. She blushed, smiling coyly, her cheeks flushing deeper at the sight of Jayden. “Jayden, there’s a birthday celebration for one of the mercenaries. Why don’t we go?” As Amanda leaned closer, Jayden detected a familiar, unsettling scent. He held his breath, stepping back, leaving Amanda looking puzzled and hurt. She was taken aback by his abrupt departure. She had gone to great lengths to procure a particular drug, hoping to spend the night with him. Reflecting on Hardy’s words, Jayden considered the possibility that Elyse might be in danger. He hastened his steps. Amanda called after him, her voice tinged with desperation. “Jayden, wait! Why are you running off? Where are you going? Can’t I come along?” Jayden didn’t slow down; he ran faster. Upon reaching his room, Jayden discovered two burly men unconscious at the door, clearly the result of a forceful struggle. They lay sprawled on the floor. After quickly checking them, Jayden confirmed they were merely unconscious. He sent a message to the medical team, requesting their prompt removal. Jayden twisted the doorknob, finding it locked from the inside. Using his key, he unlocked it and stepped inside to find Elyse trembling on the bed. . . .