Chapter 1278:

“Then keep pushing forward. You’ll always have my support.”

Moved by the depth of his commitment, Elyse pondered his recent actions. He seemed reborn, shedding the remnants of his former self.

After savoring the last bites of her cake, Elyse lingered in the backyard, letting the gentle breeze dance around her. When the moment passed, she rose and pondered aloud, “I think I’m ready to retire to my room. Which one is mine again?” Jayden stood, his response ready. “Let me show you.”

Pausing, Elyse suggested, “Shouldn’t I just ask Driscoll for help?” Jayden shook his head lightly. “He has his own responsibilities. Besides, I’m free right now.” He reached for her hand, leading her with gentle assurance back inside.

They ascended to the third floor, where Jayden ushered her into a room adorned with a sprawling balcony that offered a commanding view. “This balcony’s quite expansive,” Jayden remarked. “It’s a perfect stage for your violin.”

As Elyse surveyed the room, a sense of unease crept over her. Her eyes narrowed slightly. “Why does everything in this room seem designed for two?” she inquired, her voice tinged with wariness.

Jayden responded, his voice steady, “Because this room is mine too.”

“Sharing a room with you is the last thing I want!” Elyse clutched her bag and made a move to leave.

Jayden, however, was quick to act. He seized her, wrestled the bag from her grip, and tossed it carelessly onto a nearby chair. With a swift motion, he then pushed her down onto the sofa. Elyse, dressed in a short skirt, felt the hem rise as she was forced to lie back.

In a fluster, she reached down to adjust her skirt, attempting to sit up. But before she could right herself, Jayden had straddled her legs, effectively pinning her.

Panic surged within her, and she exclaimed with rising anger, “What are you trying to do? Get off me!”

He studied her wary expression, his smile curling with mischief. “Why the nerves? Are you afraid I’ll try something or cross a line you can’t defend?”

“Don’t you dare!” Elyse’s reply was fierce, but it did not deter Jayden. His hands moved boldly, pressing against her breasts as he chuckled with dark amusement. “You seem exhausted. How about I soothe your muscles for a bit?”

“What do you mean ‘soothe’? You clearly…” Elyse’s protest was cut off by a sharp gasp. Jayden’s fingers slipped deftly under her collar and suddenly pinched her nipple, eliciting the reaction he expected. . . .