Chapter 1326:

This was the distorted, suffocating, and flawed interpretation of love he had learned from his family. Elyse’s silence stretched on, and Jayden’s unease surfaced. The vulnerability in his eyes was palpable, and for the first time, she saw the depth of his fear. He was terrified she would reject him. Just as his anxiety was about to overwhelm him, Elyse broke the silence. “I already told you—I’m giving you a chance. You’re still under my observation.” Jayden had prepared himself for rejection, but her words were a lifeline. Relief washed over him, and before she could speak again, he seized the moment, pulling her down onto the sofa. Elyse gasped, struggling to push him off. “Are you insane? I said I’m evaluating you, not giving you free rein to act crazy!” Jayden grinned mischievously. “This is part of the evaluation. I need to prove myself in all aspects.” Her jaw dropped. “Are you out of your mind? Get off me! This isn’t part of the test!” “Of course it is,” Jayden replied. “I’m going to be your husband one day. You need to assess me thoroughly, don’t you?” “Ridiculous!” Elyse snapped, her face flushed with anger and embarrassment. “Get off me right now!” But Jayden wasn’t backing down. He held her with a mischievous grin, his movements deliberate and teasing. Not far away, Driscoll and the maids stood awkwardly, unsure what to do. Finally, Driscoll cleared his throat and waved the maids away to give them privacy. Before leaving, he carefully closed the doors and curtains to ensure the couple would not be disturbed. When she heard the doors click shut, Elyse’s embarrassment skyrocketed. “Jayden!” she hissed, glaring at him. They were in the living room! “I must take advantage of the opportunity they’ve so kindly given us,” Jayden said with a mischievous grin. “You’re unbelievable!” she snapped, kicking him in frustration. “Stop blaming others for your shameless behavior!” Jayden raised an eyebrow, then caught her leg and pinned her down. Her protests were cut short as Jayden’s hand slid under her skirt, his touch confident and teasing. Elyse bit her lip, trying to stifle a soft moan. Jayden’s eyes darkened as he held her close. . . .