Chapter 1383

Felicia's heart ached with an inexplicable sorrow as she heard Elyse's story. "My dear," she said gently, "you've faced so many hardships alone. It must have been incredibly difficult."

Elyse remained silent; Felicia's words were true. She had navigated life's challenges largely on her own. During college, she'd met Theo. Despite his betrayal, she acknowledged his kindness in certain instances—his financial assistance during a tuition crisis caused by Glenda and Lanny. She'd also found solace in Tracy, a source of emotional support who offered encouragement, respect, guidance, and understanding. Then there was Jayden; flawed, yet his love had initially healed deep wounds of abandonment and insecurity.

Lost in thought, Elyse paused. Why, she wondered, had she once embraced Jayden's possessive love, only to later reject it?

Felicia, sensing Elyse's distress, offered comfort. "It's alright, darling. I'll always be your safe haven."

Elyse smiled softly. "Thank you." Her gaze then fell upon Thea, eavesdropping from the corner. Elyse subtly avoided eye contact and resumed her conversation with Felicia.

Shortly after, Elyse excused herself, ostensibly to use the restroom, but intending to speak with Thea. Startled by Elyse's sudden appearance, Thea, panicked, crouched under the window. "Why did you find me?" she stammered, attempting a fearless tone. "Shouldn't you be with Grandma?"

Elyse, unfazed by Thea's defiance, asked, "You've been listening. Why not join us?"

This ignited Thea's anger. "Oh, so now you pity me? You feel sorry for me because Grandma doesn't accept me, because I'm not really family, and I don't deserve a place at the table?"

Elyse's brow furrowed. "That's not what I meant. I saw you'd been there a while, and assumed you wanted to talk."

"I don't want to! I'm not one of you Bensons. You're just using me to look good, aren't you?" Thea shouted, losing her temper.

Elyse replied calmly, "You're overthinking it. I've never said that."

"You didn't say it, but that's what you believe! I don't need your fake concern!" Thea shoved Elyse and glared intensely.