Chapter 1371:

Peering into Elyse’s conflicted expression, Jayden pressed gently, “Is it hard to imagine that Tracy could be plotting something so dark?”

Elyse’s words were caught in her throat. As she met Jayden’s steady gaze, her inner conflict deepened. Noticing her slouched shoulders, Jayden tenderly held her face.

“If it were just Shaun’s accident, I might suspect a business rival. But then Dolores’s incident occurred right after Tracy appeared… It’s hard not to be suspicious of her.”

Elyse turned her head away, avoiding his gaze and remaining silent. It was clear she was closing off.

Jayden sighed. “Okay, I won’t push you to talk if you’re not ready. But one thing is clear now: Tracy isn’t dead. She’s very much alive.”

Elyse whispered faintly, almost to herself, “It’s a relief she’s alive. At least… at least I don’t have to grieve.”

“What will you do when she comes looking for you?” Jayden asked softly.

Elyse shrugged. “I’ll just go along with whatever she wants to discuss. I won’t say more than necessary.”

Jayden raised an eyebrow, taken aback. “Are you planning on just ignoring the whole situation?”

Elyse shot him a look, her eyes flashing with irritation. “I just can’t believe she would do such a thing. When she returns, she’s still my best friend!”

Jayden attempted to calm her. “Fine. Maybe you’re right, Tracy wouldn’t harm anyone. I’ll be there with you when you meet her, alright?”

Elyse snorted and turned her back, dismissing him.

Jayden touched his nose and, unable to hold back, voiced the question that truly bothered him. “So, should I maybe look into where she is?”

Elyse’s response was explosive. “Absolutely not! Don’t you dare! Just stick to your own tasks!”

“Yes, ma’am,” Jayden replied, reluctantly dropping the topic about Tracy.

At the hospital, Velma sat on the bed, exhaling deeply. The state of Shaun left her feeling completely helpless.

Hanley, sitting next to her with a somber expression, said gently after a pause, “The doctor said familiar surroundings might help his memory. We should consider moving Shaun back to Liverton. It’s home, after all.”

Velma nodded in agreement. “That sounds like a good plan. Maybe being back will trigger something. Perhaps his memory will start to return.”

“I’ll go talk to Shaun and get him ready. We don’t want him getting agitated and resistant,” Hanley said as he stood up and made his way to Shaun’s room.

Shaun was at the sink, freshening up for the night when Hanley entered. Shaun scrutinized Hanley from head to toe, his tone devoid of emotion. “What are you doing here?” . . .