Chapter 1269:

Elyse found his assurance peculiar, but chose not to delve deeper. “Let’s catch up again soon.” With those parting words, David hoisted his black backpack and disappeared into the crowd. Watching him leave, Darren frowned slightly. “What’s with him? His way of speaking is always so peculiar.” Elyse shrugged, a smile playing on her lips. “I don’t know, but there’s definitely something endearing about his oddities.” Changing the subject, Darren said, “I want to buy some local food. Want to join me?” “Absolutely,” Elyse agreed enthusiastically. Together, they made their way back into the bustling mall. With the shopping behind them, they eagerly anticipated their journey home.

On the eve of their departure, Fiona was scheduled for surgery. Hearing the news, Elyse turned to Gavin. “Should we visit Fiona at the hospital?” Gavin pondered for a moment before shaking his head. “No. Some battles she must face alone. Besides, she wouldn’t really welcome our presence.” Taking his advice to heart, Elyse decided against the visit and settled into a quiet vigil by her phone.

After an agonizing four-hour wait, Gavin’s message arrived—Fiona’s surgery was successful. Elyse breathed a sigh of relief, her spirit lifting significantly. With the assurance of Fiona’s recovery, Elyse packed her belongings with a newfound sense of peace.

The next morning, Jayden shepherded Elyse and Darren toward their homeward flight, threading through the bustling airport throngs. Stepping into the terminal, Elyse was swaddled in waves of nostalgia. The echoes of hurried footsteps and distant conversations reminded her of the fervor she had invested in the competition. With its conclusion, an unexpected void began to gnaw at her, casting a shadow over her spirits.

Jayden, ever observant, came alongside Elyse with their luggage. “If this place has captured your heart, we can always come back,” he offered, his voice low and comforting. “It’s not the location itself—it’s the mosaic of memories we’ve created here,” Elyse explained, her eyes sweeping over the sea of faces. “They weave a special significance into the fabric of this place.” Jayden absorbed her words, his gaze wandering across the terminal. “I might not completely grasp that sentiment, but being here with you has unlocked depths of emotion in me that were previously untouched.” . . .