Chapter 1386
“Good evening,” Victor Hayes greeted, his enthusiasm illuminating the room. “You’re Miss Elyse Lloyd, aren’t you? I’ve seen you perform on television. Your violin playing is truly magical.”
Caught off guard, Elyse offered a polite but slightly awkward handshake. Her eyes darted to Pearce, silently seeking his assistance.
Pearce’s expression darkened as he protectively stepped in front of Elyse. “What are you doing here? I didn’t invite you,” he growled.
Victor, undeterred, flashed a wide grin. “Didn’t you know? Your grandmother invited me. She said she wanted to play matchmaker.”
Pearce’s instincts flared. “Play matchmaker? You and Elyse? Are you certain that’s what she said?”
Victor nodded confidently. “Absolutely. I wouldn’t have come otherwise.” He turned his dazzling smile on Elyse. “After dinner, let me show you around. I know all the hidden gems in this town.”
“Hey! Keep your distance from her!” Pearce snapped, momentarily covering Victor’s eyes with his hand as if to shield Elyse from his gaze.
Elyse tugged at Pearce’s sleeve, her curiosity piqued. “Who is this guy?”
Pearce, his face stormy with displeasure, muttered, “This is Victor Hayes. We grew up together, though he’s more like a persistent fly. Same age as me, but let’s just say intelligence isn't his strong suit. Don’t waste your energy on him—his antics might be contagious.”
Unfazed, Victor burst into laughter. “Oh, come on, Elyse. Don’t let this blockhead fool you. I’ve known about you for ages, but Pearce here guards you like a dragon hoarding treasure. He avoids me like the plague and never introduces us!”
Elyse tilted her head, puzzled. “I don’t think Pearce has ever mentioned you before.”
“That’s because he wouldn’t,” Pearce interjected, rolling his eyes. “Who’d want to hear about an idiot?” He reached out and pinched Victor’s cheek with exaggerated annoyance, his frustration evident.
Victor, refusing to be deterred, puffed out his chest. “Idiot? Excuse me! I’m quite the catch! Why else would your grandmother want me to date Elyse? Admit it—deep down, you know I’m a charmer.”
“Charmer?” Pearce scoffed, his irritation reaching its peak. “You mean a clown. Just be quiet!”