Chapter 251:

Elyse stood trembling at the banquet hall entrance, her face etched with isolation. Curious glances from the guests swept over her as she stood alone. Their silence was broken only by the unspoken observation of Jayden leaving his wife to attend to his ex-girlfriend. The scene starkly contrasted with the praise they had just showered on Jayden and Elyse for their seemingly perfect relationship. Public opinion shifted instantly.

Despite his physical limitations, Jayden's charisma remained captivating, effortlessly ensnaring two women in his web of charm. He was a master of winning hearts, a virtuoso of allure. "My heart goes out to Elyse," one guest whispered. "It's devastating to see her husband's affections shift."

Another guest remarked, "I couldn't help but notice the irony of her earlier defense of Jayden. Which woman truly captured his heart—Elyse or his ex-girlfriend, Corrie?" Whispers escalated into murmurs, their speculative glances piercing Elyse like daggers as they openly discussed the scandal.

Tracy swiftly intervened, shielding Elyse from the intrusive gazes and cruel whispers. Appalled by their callous speculation that Elyse was merely a placeholder, Tracy stood firmly by her friend, offering reassurance and comfort.

Theo approached quickly, placing his suit jacket around Elyse's shoulders. "Are you alright?" he asked.

Elyse turned, her eyes cold and angry. "Are you here to mock me?"

Theo shook his head. "No." He couldn't explain his presence, but the sight of Jayden abandoning Elyse stirred a painful memory of his own failed wedding. He wondered if Elyse felt as lost and heartbroken as he had then, facing the same mocking glances and cruel comments. He had left her alone, and he guessed she probably hated him.

Theo felt the crushing weight of his past selfishness and the devastating consequences of his abandonment. His remorse was evident as he took Elyse's hand. "Does Jayden always treat you like this? Come on, let's get out of here."

Elyse pulled away, disbelieving. "Theo Ward, are you crazy? Jayden hurts me like this, and you still want to be with him?"

Her frustration was evident. "Jayden and I will work this out. I am his wife, and I'm waiting for his explanation. And you, Mr. Ward, what motivates this sudden assistance?"

Concern and warning flickered in Tracy's eyes as she stepped between Elyse and Theo. "Theo," she said firmly but gently, "you've crossed a boundary. You're no longer a part of Elyse's life. Respect her boundaries and let go. Your involvement will only cause more hurt."

Theo fell silent, unable to respond. Elyse looked down and followed Tracy back into the hall. The spectators dispersed.

Fists clenched, Theo sought Elyse, but encountered Freda instead. Their eyes met, a silent exchange of unspoken meaning. He considered explaining but remained silent, ignoring her hopeful gaze. He walked away.

Freda was surprised by his dismissal. She had hoped his concern for Elyse stemmed from kindness, not lingering feelings, but he offered no explanation. Her thoughts swirled, a tempestuous storm of questions and conjectures.

The memory of the Owen family's invitation—and her request for Theo to be her escort—flooded back. She remembered his enthusiastic acceptance, his warm smile. Was it because he knew the party honored Elyse?

Suspicion hardened into indignation. Did Theo use her invitation as a pretext to see Elyse? This fueled a determination to confront Elyse.

Tracy led Elyse to the garden. The gentle fountain seemed to harmonize with Elyse's profound sadness; her loneliness was palpable.

Tracy whispered reassurance, "There may have been a miscommunication, Elyse. Don't let it consume you. Jayden will clarify everything."

Elyse closed her eyes, shaking her head. "Jayden doesn't explain things. He never has, and I don't expect him to start now."