Chapter 128:

Elyse was impressed. After all, Richie was a leading celebrity in the entertainment industry, and she felt fortunate to befriend such a figure. He removed his hat, placing it backward, leaned forward, supported his chin with his hands, and gazed at her with sparkling eyes. "What's your name? How long have you played the violin? Could you play a piece just for me?" His request came before Elyse had even agreed to be friends.

Elyse shook her head. "I'm not feeling up to it right now. I'd rather not play." After a brief pause, Richie suggested, "I actually came here to unwind, but I ended up falling asleep onstage and missed dinner. Would you like to join me for a meal?"

Elyse, taken aback, asked, "Just the two of us?"

"Absolutely. You seem upset. A nice dinner might lift your spirits," he replied, pulling her to her feet. He pulled out his phone to search for nearby restaurants.

Overwhelmed, Elyse didn't know how to react. She had planned to practice solo until midnight. "Let's opt for barbecue," Richie said, showing her his phone displaying barbecue images. "I haven't had it in a while, and these pictures are tempting."

Elyse, also hungry, found her stomach rumbling at the sight of the barbecue. She had initially intended to decline, but found herself unable to refuse. "Well, then, let's go," she said quietly, too awkward to look at him directly.

Ignoring her hesitation, Richie led her to the barbecue restaurant. They found a secluded spot and quickly ordered. Richie seemed well-acquainted with the place, quickly choosing dishes, and Elyse followed suit. They then waited for their food.

Disliking the silence, Richie broke it. "Are you the concertmaster in your orchestra? The piece you played was deeply moving. I felt your emotions—both the pain and the confusion."

Surprised by his compliment, Elyse modestly shook her head. "No, I'm not as accomplished as you suggest. I'm not the concertmaster."

Richie looked surprised. "Is that so? Your performance seemed more proficient than many. To me, conveying emotion is the most crucial aspect of music. Without that emotional resonance, music fails to truly connect."

Curious, Elyse asked, "You seem well-versed in music, yet you're an actor. Do you play any instruments?"

Richie laughed, scratching his head. "Actually, I don't. My understanding comes from a friend who's very much into music."

Elyse nodded. "Exactly, I too believe the best music resonates with the audience."

Their easy conversation continued until their food arrived. Ravenous, they ate immediately, their earlier chat momentarily forgotten.

Afterward, Elyse felt better but was still troubled. Richie noticed and suggested, "How about a walk in the park to help digest?"

Elyse checked her phone, hoping for a message from Jayden. Finding none, her disappointment deepened. The thought of Jayden possibly being with Judy troubled her.

Richie, seeing her distress, asked, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," Elyse replied, picking up her violin. "Let's take that walk."

They went to a nearby park. Concerned Richie might be recognized, Elyse led them to a quieter area. Finding an empty bench, she sat down heavily and sighed.

"Why sigh after such a good meal?" Richie asked.

"It's nothing. I'm just a bit tired and need to rest," Elyse responded, her gaze distant.

Richie sensed his new friend was carrying a burden. He thought playing her violin might help. Glancing at it, he gently suggested, "Would you like to play? It seems like a perfect spot." ... ... ...