Chapter 354:

Leaving home and arriving at the shopping mall, Elyse serendipitously discovered a cozy café and settled in. She ordered a caramel latte, savoring each sip. Lost in thought, a familiar voice startled her.

“Hello, Ms. Lloyd. Mind if I join you?”

Elyse looked up, surprised to see Pearce. “What a coincidence!” she exclaimed.

“Yeah, what a coincidence,” Pearce echoed, smiling as he sat opposite her. He signaled a waiter for an iced Americano, then turned to Elyse with a quizzical look. “What have you been up to? I went to Celestial Sounds Symphony hoping to see you, but learned you’d left.”

Elyse nodded somberly. “I was dismissed. There’s no recourse,” she said, a resigned smile touching her lips.

“Why?” Pearce asked, genuinely curious.

Elyse poured out her grievances. She’d remained silent when Tracy and Morgan visited, wanting to spare them worry.

Elyse’s words ignited Pearce’s anger. He slammed his hand on the table. “Such shameless individuals! Envious of your talent, they pushed you out!”

Elyse offered a bitter smile. “My musical background isn’t strong. It’s understandable they wanted me gone.”

The waiter arrived with Pearce’s Americano. After a sip, Pearce asked, “What made you leave the orchestra before?”

Elyse’s smile faltered. “Personal reasons,” she replied vaguely.

Pearce’s tone softened. “If you consider me a friend, be honest. I’ve reached out before, but heard nothing. I’ve been worried.”

Unaware of the intervening events, Pearce had tried to contact Elyse, even sending someone to investigate, but found nothing; the truth seemed deliberately obscured.

After a moment, Elyse sighed heavily. “I’m sorry. I can’t share it.”

Pearce hid his disappointment. “That’s alright,” he said, accepting her answer.

“Thank you for understanding,” Elyse murmured, tracing the rim of her cup.

Pearce observed her somber mood, its cause unknown. Cautiously, he asked, “What are your plans now?”

Elyse looked up, her decision seemingly spontaneous. “I want to go somewhere,” she declared determinedly.

Sensing her need for company, Pearce offered, “Where? I’m free. I can drive you.”

After a pause, Elyse said, “Could you take me to the cemeteries?”

Pearce was taken aback. “Why? Are you buying a plot?”

Elyse fell silent.

Pearce respected her silence. Standing, he said gently, “There are several beautiful cemeteries. I’ll take you.”

“Thank you,” Elyse said gratefully.

Pearce chuckled warmly. “My pleasure. I always enjoy your company.”

Elyse’s expression became serious. “Mr. Benson, I’m married. Please avoid such comments.”

“Sorry. I forgot,” Pearce confessed, lightly tapping his nose. He felt an inexplicable connection with her. “I’ll be more careful,” he promised.

Elyse followed him to the car. He drove her to a secluded cemetery on a hill, still under construction, within the city’s development zone.

As they entered, Elyse surveyed the scene. She stopped on the lawn, thoughtful.

Pearce followed, curious. Could she be choosing a plot for herself?

He finally asked, “Are you terminally ill? Are you choosing a plot for yourself?”

Elyse was shocked. “Of course not! Don’t jump to conclusions.”

Pearce’s confusion deepened. “Then for whom?”

“For my parents,” Elyse replied slowly.