Chapter 394: Novel Drama

Theo's smile was bitter. "For you, it may sound unwelcome, but for me, it's a rare opportunity to see you." Elyse plucked at the violin strings, her tone casual. "So, should I grant Kaelyn's wish?"

Theo turned to Elyse. "Ultimately, the decision rests with you."

Elyse was surprised. "I expected you to advocate for Kaelyn."

Theo chuckled bitterly. "I won't pressure you. Sharing my feelings was about honesty, not making excuses or playing games. I want us to be open and genuine with each other."

The melody stopped abruptly. Elyse lifted her head. "Are you feigning delayed affection?"

Theo's face paled. "This isn't an act. I'm sincere about my feelings for you. I understand your doubts, but given a chance, I'll prove it to you in time."

Her fingers traced the strings. "We can't be together. It's best to accept that."

Theo smiled sadly. He wouldn't give up. He refused to surrender. He was determined to win back his true love, even though Elyse was married to another.

Unaware of Theo's unwavering resolve, Elyse pondered Kaelyn. She knew Kaelyn little, and Theo was their only connection. Elyse had always assumed that marrying Jayden would sever her ties with Theo. Therefore, she couldn't understand why Kaelyn would want to harm her. After considering this, Elyse said, "I have a question for Kaelyn. I'm willing to meet her." Theo had expected Elyse to refuse; her agreement surprised him.

"I need to inform Fiona." Violin in hand, Elyse turned and strode into the studio. Engrossed in her violin practice, Fiona noticed Elyse's approach. She stopped playing, a smile on her lips. "Finished practicing? Care for some black tea?"

Elyse shook her head. "Sorry, I have some things to attend to. I'll be back in two hours."

Fiona was surprised. She wiped the sweat from Elyse's brow. "Handle your affairs first. You can go home afterward and practice. No need to rush back."

With a grateful glance at Fiona, Elyse murmured, "Please don't mention this to Irving. He won't let me off easily if he finds out."

Fiona smiled knowingly. "Are you that afraid of him?"

Elyse nodded solemnly. "He has quite a sharp tongue." Waving goodbye, Elyse left.

Elyse got into Theo's car. Ignoring his eager anticipation, she texted her driver to pick her up at the police station later.

Theo cleared his throat. "Do you remember your college class monitor?"

Elyse nodded. "Yeah. What about her?"

Theo said, "I saw her recent social media update. She's getting married soon, and her fiancé owns a bakery. Those pastries look tempting. We could stop by and try them." Though his tone was casual, Theo had an ulterior motive.

Elyse turned to him, her expression blank. "No, I lost touch with her after graduation. Besides, I'm interested in pastries, not..." Elyse's response was firm, rejecting his implication.

Their ability to casually plan outings, like friends, was gone, a reminder that they couldn't go back. Theo's face showed a mix of emotions. He remembered Elyse's consistent rejections since their breakup. He sensed her detachment and indifference. Could she really move on so quickly? He doubted it. He convinced himself that Elyse still had feelings for him, buried beneath pain and denial. He remained convinced of her lingering affection.

"If it's inconvenient, forget I mentioned it. There will be other opportunities," Theo conceded.

Elyse shook her head. "There's no hope, Theo. Can't you see? I refuse to negotiate about our plans. Stop it. Stop giving me false hope. I've deluded myself enough. Why do you persist?"

Theo erupted. "Is rejection all you can offer? I've done everything to win you back. Give me something else to work with!" Theo's eyes were red, his chest heaving. Elyse sensed he was about to break down.

. . .