Chapter 383

Consumed by anger, Tobin immediately contacted Jayden. Upon learning of Theo's actions, Jayden scoffed, "Self-righteous fool. He's blinded by his own sense of justice." Anxious, Tobin asked, "Kaelyn has been taken. What should I do?" Jayden replied calmly, "Gather your men and track her down. Kaelyn must be eliminated." Tobin promptly set out to obey.

At dawn, Elyse awoke in the ICU. The nurse immediately summoned the doctor. Peyton, alerted by the commotion, rushed to the ICU upon hearing the news. After a series of tests, Elyse's vital signs stabilized. Peyton approved her transfer to a general ward.

Reaching the ward, Elyse weakly raised her hand. Jayden gently took it and asked, "How are you feeling?" Elyse murmured, "I'm thirsty and hungry." Jayden reassured her, "You can have some water. Driscoll is on his way, and the chef has prepared nutritious food for you." Elyse nodded weakly and sat up slightly.

Jayden gave her water. Watching her sip slowly, he felt relieved. Seeing her safe brought him peace of mind. After returning the glass, Elyse asked, "Who drugged me? I felt so unwell." Jayden answered truthfully, "Kaelyn drugged you. It wasn't just an aphrodisiac; it was laced with a compound that induces heart failure. The dosage was dangerously high, nearly fatal." Elyse was astonished. "Where is Kaelyn?" Jayden rotated his ring thoughtfully before replying, "Theo intervened and rescued her. Kaelyn tearfully pleaded with him, and he, being compassionate, took her away." He added significantly, "It seems Kaelyn still holds a significant place in his affections. In crisis, his true allegiance becomes evident." Elyse kept her head bowed, her expression unreadable. In a measured tone, she said slowly, "This is unsurprising. Theo's affection is shallow. Ultimately, he values himself above all others."

Jayden's smile widened. "Your response surprised me." Elyse looked at him reproachfully. "You always assume I still have feelings for Theo. I don't understand." "Is that my fault?" Jayden teased. Noticing Jayden's fatigue, Elyse said softly, "You should rest. I'm feeling better, just a little weak." Having watched over Elyse all night, Jayden felt relieved to see her talking. He instructed, "Later, call Gavin. He stayed at the hospital until early morning. He plans to visit at noon. Tell him you're doing better." Elyse nodded, settling in for more conversation.

At that moment, Tess burst in, smiling joyfully. "I heard Elyse was poisoned and dying," she exclaimed. "Look! I've found a new prospect from a wealthy family. Since Elyse is out of the picture, you should consider someone else." She continued, "Elyse is jinxed. You should find a fortunate, wealthy girl to marry instead." As Tess spoke cheerfully, she saw Elyse, looking pale. "Damn! Is that a ghost?" Tess recoiled in fear.

Jayden, disgusted, asked impatiently, "Where did you hear Elyse was dead?" Pointing at Elyse, Tess asked sharply, "Aren't you supposed to be dead? You were in the ICU. How are you still alive?" Elyse smiled mockingly. "It seems you wanted me dead. Unfortunately, I'm tougher than that. The medical team saved me." Tess was taken aback. Her face contorted. She believed Elyse was dead and had already chosen replacements for Jayden. Now, shocked to find Elyse alive, she wondered how she could use Jayden's marriage for her own gain.

Bryce was struggling in the Owen Group, and no suitable women from influential families were interested. Tess had hoped to use Jayden's marriage to gain support. Her expression darkened. "Why couldn't Elyse have just died?" Elyse caught the animosity in Tess's eyes and said, "It seems you don't care for me and are just waiting for me to die so your son can marry someone else." Jayden frowned and clarified, "You are my only wife. No one can replace you." Tess couldn't stand it. If Jayden only wanted Elyse, how could she introduce a new wife?

(The ellipses at the end are removed as they seem to indicate further text that isn't included in the provided passage.)