Chapter 237:

Hearing that, the man smiled, firmly thrusting the bouquet into Elyse's hand. He turned to Jayden, remarking, "Just a fan, mate. No need to get touchy."

Peyton sauntered over, overhearing the exchange. He involuntarily snickered.

Elyse, embarrassed, felt awkward holding the bouquet. The man doffed his hat, bowed courteously, and gracefully exited.

Jayden's gaze followed the retreating figure, a storm brewing in his eyes. Elyse gently squeezed his fingers, whispering, "Don't let it bother you."

Jayden's cold inquiry cut through the tension. He fixated on the bouquet. "What are you going to do with that?"

In a hushed tone, Elyse replied, "Your call." His anger seemed to subside at her words. The man was just a fan; there was no reason for such intensity.

Clive watched the departing man, uncertainty clouding his features. Could he be a Benson family member? He racked his brain, then shook his head, dismissing the thought as he approached Jayden.

Unknown to Clive, the man lingered beneath a large tree, his eyes fixed on Elyse. He pulled out his phone and dialed a number. "Look into Elyse Lloyd from Celestial Sounds Symphony. She might be the one."

A shiver ran down Elyse's spine. She glanced up and saw the man—her supposed fan—lurking nearby, watching her. "That man's still here. He's watching me," she fretted, approaching Jayden.

Jayden looked, but the man was gone. Elyse also noticed his absence. She scanned the area, her brows furrowed. "Where did he go?"

"Maybe you're mistaken," Jayden said soothingly.

"No sign of anyone suspicious. Let's get something to eat," Peyton intervened, leading them to a reserved table at a nearby restaurant.

Meanwhile, Mabel, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, used the orchestra performance and lax security to slip into the rehearsal room unnoticed.

Using her memory, Mabel found Elyse's locker. Ensuring no one was around, she opened it and began searching through the sheet music. At the bottom was a folder. She opened it, her eyes widening as she saw the coveted sheet music she had been seeking.

Greed flashed in Mabel's eyes as she examined the music. "Knew Elyse had new music, but she's hoarding it like treasure. So petty."

"What's going on here?" A voice broke the silence.

Startled, Mabel fell to the floor, meeting Rebekah's stern gaze.

Rebekah glanced at the locker, then at the sheet music in Mabel's hand. She smiled knowingly. "Elyse's little sister, right? You were here two days ago."

Flushing with embarrassment, Mabel quickly hid the music and stood, ready to flee.

"Wait," Rebekah stopped her.

Mabel, feeling guilty, asked, "What is it?"

Rebekah pointed to a corner. "You don't take Celestial Sounds Symphony seriously, do you? That was a bold move."

Mabel followed Rebekah's gaze to a surveillance camera directly above her.

Nervous tension gripped Mabel. "I didn't steal it. My sister wanted me to get the music for her."

"Sheet music?" Rebekah snatched the music. A quick look revealed awe and envy in her eyes.

Maintaining composure, Rebekah refrained from tearing the pages, addressing Mabel coldly. "So, you're stealing your sister's music?"

Mabel vehemently shook her head. "No. Elyse sent me for it."

Rebekah scoffed. "Remember your last visit? It's hard to believe you now."

Mabel snatched back the music, glaring resentfully. "Mind your own business. This is family business."

Rebekah smiled mischievously. "To make this go away, you need to show some goodwill."

Mabel was about to retort, but Rebekah's words struck a chord. Tension left her.

Mabel smiled. "Name your price."

Rebekah smirked. "Three scores for $200,000 each. Oh, and I'll delete that surveillance footage."

Six hundred thousand dollars to get back into show business. It was a worthwhile deal.

Mabel nodded in agreement. Rebekah extended her hand, a silent understanding passing between them as they shook. Their pact was sealed.