Chapter 1226:

“I don’t want to go with you, and I don’t need your help. Leave me alone,” Elyse retorted. She tried to walk away.

Jayden’s desperation overwhelmed him. Terrified she might leave permanently, he tightened his grip on her arm.

Elyse glared. “What now?”

“Brook is still in custody,” Jayden explained quickly. “Let’s go get him.”

“Why should I?” Elyse retorted sarcastically. “You’ve managed everything yourself. Why involve me now?”

Her words stung. He sighed, pleading, “Just come with me.”

“No!” Elyse refused, unmoved. He’d had countless opportunities to include her and hadn’t. Now, with things calmer, he expected her obedience. Why should she follow his lead? She was done. His pleas and desperation had no effect; he couldn’t break her composure.

Desperation gnawing at him, Jayden, ignoring Peyton’s advice, resorted to force. He swept her into his arms and lifted her into the car.

The world spun. When her senses cleared, she was seated inside.

Jayden gripped her chin. “Don’t even think about leaving me again. You belong with me, always.”

Elyse’s eyes blazed. “I won’t follow your commands. Who do you think you are?”

Jayden’s teeth clenched. “Who am I? I’ll be your husband! The only one you’ll ever have—past, present, and future! I know you’re angry, but stop threatening to leave.”

His voice was vulnerable, revealing his fear of losing her.

Elyse remained unresponsive. She closed her eyes, ignoring him.

At Brook’s detention center, Elyse refused to leave the car, but Jayden pulled her out.

“What’s the point?” she complained. “What am I proving?”

“It means a lot,” Jayden replied. “But only if you stay close.” . . .