Chapter 298:

“Didn’t I wear you out? You still seem to have the energy to go out?” Jayden’s voice sounded.

Startled, Elyse spun around, but her legs gave way, sending her to the floor. Meeting Jayden’s intense gaze, she was speechless. Awkwardly, she mumbled, “I just didn’t want to wait. I wanted to investigate on my own.”

Jayden’s eyes briefly flickered down to her legs. Blushing, she struggled to stand, feeling like a child caught misbehaving. Her gaze remained fixed on the floor. With a sigh, Jayden scooped her into his arms and settled her on his lap. His touch sent shivers down her spine, and she protested in a hoarse whisper, “I’m going out. Please stop.”

Pinching her chin, Jayden gritted his teeth, his voice laced with frustration. “You still have the energy to go out after that? Can’t I satisfy you in bed?”

Elyse thought he was overthinking it. Pushing against him, she replied, “Stop being naughty. I didn’t imply you’re lacking. You… you’re very awesome in bed.”

Jayden lifted her chin and kissed her. “I’ll drive you there. I happen to have to go out, too.”

Surprised, Elyse asked, “You’re going out? Where are you going?”

Raising his eyebrows, Jayden teased, “Now you care about me?”

“I’ve always been concerned about you. It’s you who leaves me out.”

Amused, Jayden kissed her cheek and said, “It’s not time yet. I’ll include you in the future. Don’t worry.”

She turned away, anger simmering. However, Jayden found her reaction adorable. He moved toward the door, carrying Elyse in his arms. Observing their departure, Driscoll asked, “Are you two going out together?”

Elyse noticed the new carpet in the living room, her head bowed in silence, avoiding thoughts of what had just happened. Jayden replied, “We’re on our way. I won’t be back for dinner. Take care of her and ensure no one bothers her.”

Driscoll nodded respectfully. “Understood.”

Once outside, Jayden’s driver chauffeured Elyse to her destination. Stepping out of the car, she spotted Darren waiting nearby. Feeling apologetic, she murmured, “Sorry. Have you been waiting long?”

Darren shook his head. “No, I just got here.”

He then turned his attention to Jayden. Knowing Elyse was married, this was his first encounter with her husband. “Hi, Jayden Owen, right? Nice meeting you. We should all get together for dinner sometime,” Darren greeted Jayden amiably.

Jayden gave Darren a few glances, devoid of disdain. For the first time, he didn’t feel repulsed by a man near his wife and even reciprocated his greeting. After exchanging a few words with Elyse, Jayden drove away, and she waved goodbye.

Considering for a moment, Darren said, “Your husband seems easy to get along with. How about inviting him to hang out with us next time?”

Feeling conflicted, Elyse replied, “He’s not easy to deal with. He’s quite challenging.”

Darren rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Really? I didn’t get that impression.”

Elyse placed her hand on her hip. While Darren might not have sensed it, she certainly did. Dealing with Jayden was anything but easy. As she followed Darren into the car, she noticed a bag on the back seat. Curious, she asked, “What’s in there?”

Darren explained, “You’ll need to put everything on: a mask, a hat, sunglasses, and a black windbreaker. Wear them before we enter the parking garage.”

“Is there paparazzi in the garage?” Elyse asked in shock.

Darren furrowed his brow. “Someone spotted paparazzi sneaking into the garage this morning. Though they were chased away, no one knows if there are new ones lurking.”

Elyse immediately donned the protective gear. As Darren pulled into the garage, he scanned the area cautiously, ensuring it was clear. Satisfied, he opened the door, and they exited the car swiftly. Heading straight for the elevator, they both breathed a sigh of relief upon entering.

“We’re safe,” Darren said.

Elyse nodded. “Yes, we are.”

All the orchestra members were engaged in rehearsal, undeterred by Elyse’s absence. Walking past the rehearsal room, Elyse stole a quick glance inside and saw Grace and the other members. Without stopping, she turned and followed Darren toward the monitoring room. Spotting Elyse, Freddy blinked incredulously, unable to believe his eyes.

…