Chapter 666:

Jayden’s expression grew stern. “I did it for her protection. You know Enzo keeps a close watch on both of us. What if she got hurt outside my care?”

Peyton considered Jayden’s point; it made sense. Enzo’s reputation for brutality was well-known, and whispers circulated that some within the Owen clan disagreed with his leadership.

With this in mind, Peyton inquired, “Have you discussed these issues with Elyse?”

Jayden replied disdainfully, “What’s the use? She doesn’t grasp these things. She’s safer at home, focusing on her violin.”

Now Peyton understood Elyse’s reasons for leaving.

He couldn’t resist commenting, “Don’t you think that’s a bit paternalistic, believing it’s all for Elyse’s good?”

Jayden scoffed. “Am I not?”

Peyton shot back, “Are you genuinely trying to protect Elyse from harm, or are you simply keeping her close to maintain control?”

Jayden raised an eyebrow. “Is there a difference?”

“A significant one!” Peyton replied, picking up a kebab and taking a bite. “It’s the difference between liking someone and loving them. Do you understand?”

Jayden continued drinking, ignoring him.

Peyton chose not to delve deeper. He believed some lessons had to be learned personally. Perhaps Elyse had realized this, and that’s why she left.

Looking at Jayden, Peyton asked, “After Elyse left, did you search for her?”

Jayden was silent before reluctantly replying, “Yes.”

“Where is she now?” Peyton inquired, confused.

“I don’t know. I couldn’t find her,” Jayden confessed. “I tracked her abroad, but the trail went cold.” His mood soured, and his voice became irritable.

Peyton laughed heartily. “Maybe that clue from abroad was misleading. Weren’t you the one who said Pearce helped Elyse escape? Pearce Cambape. Elyse could very well be in Cambape.”

After downing two more bottles, Jayden felt empty. He picked up his kebab and contemplated. “Perhaps, but it hardly matters if I can’t locate her. She’s bound to attend that international competition. Once she appears, she won’t slip away again.”

A smirk flickered across Peyton’s lips, tempered by concern. He knew with Jayden’s current mindset, Elyse would likely flee at their next meeting. When would Jayden understand love?

Munching on the food, Peyton suggested, “Thinking like that shows you still care about Elyse. When you meet her, apologize genuinely. Don’t cause her more pain.”

Jayden sneered. “Apologize? For what? I’ve done nothing wrong. Elyse owes me an apology. She was the one pushing for a divorce.”

“It’s because she believes your relationship is beyond repair,” Peyton explained, resigned.

“I’ve never noticed any issues. She’s overreacting, becoming too sensitive. If she comes crawling back, I might hesitate to take her back,” Jayden countered dismissively.

Peyton stared, baffled. What made Jayden so confident? It might be Jayden who ended up with regrets.