Chapter 144:

Jayden's movements left Elyse's mind blank. Initially, she stubbornly refused to speak to him, but now she found herself begging, pitiful moans escaping her lips. Blindfolded and in tears, she was utterly vulnerable.

Reflecting on Elyse's distant behavior over the past few days, Jayden felt a surge of rage. Despite his years as a successful businessman and his current confinement to a wheelchair, his pride remained intact. Her defiance was unbearable. This fueled him to seize her lips, his actions growing increasingly intense.

Elyse's whimpers escalated, a mixture of pain and pleasure—a potent temptation for any man. "Elyse," he growled, "you still dare treat me coldly?" His forceful movements stifled any response. She struggled to form a complete sentence, finally managing a promise after several attempts.

Her words seemed to dissipate Jayden's anger. Observing the kiss marks and bruises on her body, he felt a twisted sense of satisfaction. Finally, he ceased his aggression, allowing her to curl up in his arms, her body still trembling.

He whispered in her ear, his voice a harsh caress, "Be a good girl, and I'll treat you well." It took Elyse a long time to regain her composure, both physically and mentally. Her voice raspy, she pleaded, "Release me. I'm not feeling well."

"You're not behaving well enough. I can't release you," Jayden retorted sharply.

Elyse pressed her lips together, feeling wronged. Suddenly, her stomach growled loudly, surprising Jayden. The rumbling sound deepened her sense of grievance. He had forced himself on her that morning, and she hadn't eaten all day. And moments ago, they had repeated the act. Tears welled up as she bit her lip and sobbed, "Ever since I married you, you've kept me starved."

Jayden was speechless. Witnessing her tears, he sighed deeply. He sat up, transferred to his wheelchair, and untied her. Now free, Elyse could see clearly. She pushed herself up on the bed and noticed bruises encircling her wrists. Her sobbing intensified.

"Stop crying. Let's get you something to eat," Jayden said, massaging his forehead. He lifted Elyse and seated her on his lap.

Small and fragile, she continued to sob. He carried her to the dining room on the ground floor, patted her back gently, and suggested, "All the servants are likely asleep. Check the fridge and see if there's anything you can eat."

Elyse nodded. As she attempted to stand, her legs gave way, but Jayden caught her. Looking at her unsteady legs, he couldn't help feeling a perverse sense of pride. He teased, "Maybe I should have been tougher. You're not used to it."

Elyse avoided his gaze. "Stop talking. This is all your doing."

Flushing with anger, Elyse glared at him. Gripping the dining table for support, she made her way to the refrigerator. Finding some mashed potatoes, she exclaimed with relief, "Looks like they've left us a midnight snack. They probably thought you might starve."

Jayden watched her, resting his chin on his hand, amused by her awkwardness as she moved towards the microwave.

Elyse watched the microwave eagerly. Once the food was warm, she ate in silence.

Jayden observed her, thinking she resembled a squirrel. He reached to stroke her hair, but she flinched away.

With a menacing grin, Jayden challenged, "What's that supposed to mean? Need another lesson?"

Elyse kept her eyes averted. "Don't touch me."

Jayden tapped his fingers impatiently. "Give me a reason," he demanded.

Elyse glared fiercely. "Why don't you go stroke Judy Foster's hair? She loves your touch. I certainly do not."

Jayden, sensing her jealousy, felt a twinge of satisfaction, but feigned confusion. "Why are you so bothered by Judy? I've already told you I don't care about her." Elyse turned away.

Jayden gently turned her face toward him and kissed her quickly. With a slight smile, he asked, "Have you seen Judy since you got back?"

Elyse fell silent. She hadn't seen Judy at all. In the past, Judy would have certainly made her presence known.

Elyse's voice held a hint of doubt. "Where is she? Isn't she supposed to be here?"

Observing her perplexed expression, Jayden's lips twitched. He sighed, a mix of frustration and affection in his tone, "My little fool, how can you still be so naive after all these days with me?"

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