Chapter 353:

Elyse pondered her escape from the nightmare when she heard approaching footsteps. She intended to call for help, but before she could, a man stood by her bed. His facial details were blurry, but he was clearly male. He stared at her with a helpless expression. Just as curiosity struck her, he removed her oxygen mask. Only when her breathing grew labored did she realize his lethal intent. She thrashed, desperately trying to retrieve the mask. The man watched her, seemingly lost in thought. Then, he raised his hands and began to strangle her.

"Don't kill me," she gasped, her voice unfamiliar. His face remained indistinct, but his intent was clear—ruthless and determined. Elyse struggled to speak, "Why?" He offered no reply. As consciousness faded, she sensed a disturbing excitement in him. Why was he so happy to kill her? The visceral sensation of strangulation felt terrifyingly real, as if she had truly died. Darkness enveloped her as she closed her eyes, and she felt herself falling. Panic surged. Where was she falling? To hell? What had she done wrong?

"Elyse, Elyse." A familiar voice jolted her from the abyss. She snapped her eyes open, gasping for breath. Jayden held her hand, offering reassurance. "It's okay. It was just a nightmare."

It took time for Elyse to regain her bearings. She saw Jayden's worried expression, with Driscoll and the maids behind him. Confused, she asked, "What's wrong with me?"

"You were having a nightmare," Jayden explained. "You were talking in your sleep, pleading with someone not to kill you."

"Did I say that?" Elyse asked, bewildered.

Driscoll nodded, his tone laced with concern. "Yes. We were all worried. We couldn't wake you, and you seemed even more frightened when we tried to touch you."

"I had a nightmare. I dreamed I was in bed and someone was trying to kill me," Elyse said, looking weary, her hand on her forehead.

"Do you still want to sleep?" Jayden asked.

Elyse shook her head. "No, I want to get up."

"Okay," Jayden said. He turned to Driscoll. "Prepare some food."

Driscoll acknowledged the instruction and left with the maids. Jayden wanted to stay, but sensing Elyse's need for solitude, he left. Downstairs, Driscoll approached him. "Miss Bates called. She wants to see you this afternoon. It's important."

"What's it about?" Jayden inquired.

"She said it's very important. You shouldn't miss it," Driscoll replied.

Jayden responded calmly, "Tell her to come. I'll hear what she has to say."

After freshening up, Elyse went downstairs for breakfast. Afterward, she grabbed her purse. "I want to go for a walk."

"I'll go with you," Jayden offered.

"No, I want to walk downtown alone. You don't need to come. Attend to your business." Seeing his concern, Elyse chuckled. "You think I'm going to be devastated and commit suicide? I'm fine. I just need a break and some fresh air."

Jayden produced a black card. "I want you to spend five million today. That's your task."

"And if I spend more?" Elyse asked.

"The card is yours," Jayden said, raising an eyebrow.

Elyse pocketed the card, grabbed her purse, and left. Watching her go, Driscoll gave Jayden a thumbs-up. "Sir, well done. Shopping is a great joy for many. She'll enjoy it."

Jayden rubbed his chin, a hint of pride in his voice. "A simple card makes her so happy. My wife is truly special."