Chapter 221:

Stunned, Elyse stared at Jayden. Did he know she truly cared for him?

Tess was embarrassed by Jayden's words. Her eyes narrowed as she gave him a brittle look. She saw Elyse's growing influence on him, which threatened the Owen family. Silent, she plotted against Elyse.

Jayden ignored Tess's demeanor, choosing to show respect on Bryce's birthday. He presented Bryce with his gift, saying, "Happy birthday."

Bryce stopped crying immediately, excitedly tearing open the package to reveal a car key. For the first time, he looked at Jayden warmly. "Thank you, Jayden. I really like the gift." Overjoyed, he couldn't wait to try out his new car after dinner. "Not bad," Tess said, "at least you care about Bryce."

Elyse watched the trio enjoy their family moment, hesitant to interrupt. Then, her stomach rumbled; she was famished. Quietly pressing her stomach, she took a bite of an apple.

Jayden glanced at her, then asked, "Can we have dinner now?"

"Not yet," Tess said. "Someone is still missing."

Confused, Jayden asked, "Are we expecting someone else? Isn't Dad in the neighboring city and unable to make it for dinner?"

His question made Tess feel guilty. She stammered, "It's not your father. She'll be here soon."

An alluring voice announced, "Oh, I guess you were referring to me. I was stuck in traffic. I'm sorry I'm late."

Elyse turned curiously. A stylish woman with very long hair entered, carrying a gift. Tess's voice softened immediately. "Come, Corrie, let me get a good look at you. I haven't seen you in a year. You're even more beautiful."

Corrie embraced Tess happily. "It's been so long. I missed you while I was abroad."

Tess patted her back gently. "I missed you too. But you never called after you left."

"Forgive me," Corrie said, "I was very busy, and the time difference made it difficult to call." Tess was elated.

Elyse trembled slightly. The woman was Corrie Bates, whom Jayden had visited the night before. Jayden sensed Elyse remembered their encounter two days prior. He squeezed her hand comfortingly.

After greeting Tess, Corrie noticed Elyse, studying her from head to toe before feigning ignorance. "Who is our guest? Is she here for Bryce's birthday?"

Tess remained silent, unwilling to introduce Elyse, having never accepted her as her daughter-in-law.

Elyse started to introduce herself, but Jayden interrupted, taking her hand—to Corrie's surprise. "Meet my wife, Elyse Lloyd. Treat her with the respect she deserves."

Elyse's heart softened. She looked up at him, ready to forgive him for his actions days earlier.

Corrie knew she was his wife, but Jayden's declaration was unexpected. "Was it really necessary to marry so young? Don't you want to run the Owen Group?" Corrie asked jokingly, settling beside Tess.

Jayden raised his glass to Bryce. "I'm not the only child. Bryce is available; he can handle the family business."

Bryce paused unwrapping Corrie's gift. He said rudely, "You're unfit to lead the Owen Group. You're not a worthy competitor."

Jayden nodded. "You're right. I'm not willing to compete with you. You're our parents' hope."

Bryce was complacent, believing his position in the company was secure.

Corrie poured herself water, then directed a question to Elyse: "Ms. Lloyd, do you truly love Jayden?"

...