Chapter 129:

Elyse glanced around at the sparse crowd. "This place isn't exactly ideal for a violin performance. There's hardly anyone here."

"And am I not an audience?" Richie retorted confidently. "Besides, a performer can perform anywhere. Everything around can become your audience, if you want it to be."

Elyse gave him a skeptical look. "Is that what your music-savvy friend told you?"

"Absolutely. He's amazing. You'll meet him when he returns to the country." Pointing to a nearby streetlight, Richie said, "There's a light there. You can stand under it and play."

Elyse hesitated, then walked to the streetlamp with her violin. She positioned herself, took a deep breath, and began to play.

Meanwhile, Richie pulled out his phone to record a video. With her eyes closed, Elyse poured her emotions into her music, every unspoken grievance finding a voice through her violin.

As Richie recorded, he noticed a few people approaching, drawn by Elyse's performance. Worried about being recognized, he quickly put on a mask and hat.

But Richie had underestimated the power of Elyse's music. Soon, as one piece ended, Elyse found herself surrounded by a crowd.

"Bravo! Your music truly touched my heart. Are you a professional musician? What's your name? I'd love to find you online. Could you play another piece? Your music is so captivating."

Elyse was used to performing on stage, following a set list, and rarely interacting directly with her audience. This was the first time she'd been so close to them, and she enjoyed the direct communication.

Subconsciously, she scanned the crowd for Richie. He waved and nodded for her to continue. With his hat and sunglasses, he felt confident he wouldn't be recognized.

Under the gaze of the crowd, Elyse played several more pieces, each stirring the emotions of her listeners, leaving them eager for more. After three or four pieces, she thanked them and left the park with Richie.

Seeing Elyse's smile, Richie teased, "You're not feeling down anymore, are you?" Elyse was about to say she felt great, but as they approached the park's exit, they saw Jayden sitting in a wheelchair, Judy standing beside him.

Elyse froze, her face falling. Judy, noticing the man with Elyse, barely concealed her joy. "Ms. Lloyd, why don't you head home? Mr. Owen has been worried sick about you. He came looking for you himself. And who is this with you? Do you two know each other well?"

Elyse glanced at Judy, sensing the trap in her words. She was about to speak when Richie strode toward Jayden, bending down.

"Excuse me, are you Mr. Jayden Owen?" Richie asked enthusiastically.

Jayden looked at him coldly, not recognizing him.

Richie said excitedly, "It's really you! I'm Richie Larson. I starred in three films you invested in—all hugely successful. But you stopped investing in the entertainment industry after that. I never got the chance to work with you again," Richie said, trying to jog Jayden's memory.

Jayden remembered Richie after the reminder. "I'm not involved in the entertainment business anymore. Perhaps we could collaborate in the future."

Richie's eyes lit up. Jayden could be his future investor. He had to maintain a good connection with him.

Annoyed by Richie's talkativeness, Jayden looked at Elyse, showing his disapproval.

Elyse saw Jayden's reaction and felt uncomfortable. She pulled away from Richie. "I have to go now. Thank you so much for your help today," she said, genuinely grateful.

Richie grinned. "No problem. And thank you for helping me reconnect with Mr. Owen."

Elyse didn't reply. She couldn't help but notice the way Richie looked at Jayden—like a hungry wolf eyeing its prey.

Jayden couldn't bear it anymore. "Come back with me, Elyse."

Seeing the awkward exchange, Richie couldn't help but ask, "Are you two married? You seem like a perfect couple."

…