Chapter 598:

Elyse's serious expression prompted Irving to defend her. "Mr. Tucker," he said, "the competition is still three months away. Why pressure Elyse so early?"

Cody looked up, surprised. "You're quite protective of Elyse. When Gavin was competing, you pushed him relentlessly for a year, telling him to quit if he lost. Seems you've learned some consideration, haven't you?"

Gavin shot Irving a disgusted look, remembering the past.

Irving felt awkward. He scratched his nose guiltily. "Well, Elyse isn't Gavin. You can be gentle with Elyse, but sometimes you have to be tough on Gavin to help him improve."

Gavin glared fiercely, silently vowing revenge.

After a short chat with Elyse, Cody stood abruptly. "You've been married a while, but I haven't met your husband. You know where Jayden is, right? Take me to see him."

Irving nodded. "Of course, Mr. Tucker. This way."

Irving led Cody from the ward.

Gavin lingered, turning to Elyse. "Take care of yourself, and don't forget your violin. It will give you strength."

Elyse nodded, then asked anxiously, "Did Mr. Tucker bring gifts just for me? What about you and Gavin?"

Gavin paused, then chuckled. "Of course we have gifts. They're in the car. Don't worry."

Elyse breathed a sigh of relief, then asked, "And Fiona?"

"Fiona has a gift too. Mr. Tucker didn't forget anyone," Gavin assured her with a smile.

Relieved, Elyse settled back onto the bed. The intense conversation with Cody had exhausted her.

Knowing Elyse's tendency to overthink, Gavin reassured her, "Hey, no need to fret about the competition. We have three solid months. Even if your foundation isn't perfect, with dedicated practice, your natural talent will compensate."

Elyse blinked, uncertain. "Gavin, you seem so sure. Aren't you worried I might not be good enough?"

Gavin responded gently, "We've known each other for so long. Why wouldn't I trust you? And whether you win or lose doesn't depend on my belief in you. Do you think you must win just because I believe in you?"

Elyse looked puzzled. "But if you trust me, I feel like I have to succeed. Otherwise, what's the point of your trust?"

Gavin pondered. "So, if I didn't trust you, would you slack off? Or would you still strive for the best result?"

Elyse hesitated, caught off guard. Even without support, she would still play her violin. Her love for it was unshakable.

Gavin, noticing her silence, knew she was contemplating his question. He smiled. "Trust is just trust. If you need my support, I'll help you chase your dream. The outcome, however, isn't my responsibility."

With a reassuring smile, Gavin leaned closer. "Even if things go wrong in the competition, you're still my friend. I'll always have faith in you."

Elyse blushed at his unwavering belief. Gavin had a way of empowering others, boosting their confidence. Elyse hoped to someday possess that same determination and strength.

Seeing the calm in her eyes, Gavin nodded. "Get some rest. I'll check on Jayden's ward. Irving has a problem with Jayden and might try to cause trouble between him and Mr. Tucker."

Curious, Elyse asked, "Gavin, do you have any problems with Jayden?"

Gavin scratched his chin. "I have reservations. He's difficult, distant. His role isn't easy, though. He was just doing what he had to, I suppose."