Chapter 708:

When the piece ended, the man stood up, extended his hand to Elyse, and introduced himself: “I’m David Lawson. It was wonderful to perform with you.”

Elyse returned his smile. “I’m Elyse Lloyd. Hopefully, we can work together again soon.”

David and Elyse exchanged pleased smiles.

Suddenly, that unnerving sensation of malice targeted Elyse once more.

Startled, Elyse quickly released David’s hand and turned to see who was watching her.

Seeing her distress, David asked, with a puzzled look, “Everything alright?”

Elyse, failing to spot anyone suspicious, turned back, somewhat embarrassed. “Sorry, just ignore that.”

She walked back to Irving, violin in hand.

Irving, seeing her return, teased, “How does it feel to provide a free concert?”

Elyse, glowing with joy, replied passionately, “It’s truly a privilege to play the violin. Music empowers people. I feel so energized now, like I’ve conquered the oceans.”

Irving chuckled and handed her a fork. “Miss Pirate, let’s eat first. Afterward, we can head to a park to practice.”

“Okay,” Elyse said, feeling ravenous, and immediately began eating.

Once they finished eating, they bundled up against the chill and ventured out to find a suitable practice spot. Nearby was a small park where orange streetlights cast a gentle glow on the snowy ground.

Elyse moved with difficulty, unsure if the deep snow or her heavy violin case was slowing her down. Irving reached a bench first, cleared off the light dusting of snow, and dried it with a handkerchief. He turned and noticed Elyse was having trouble keeping pace.

He observed her briefly, then asked, with a hint of concern, “Are you feeling alright? You seem a bit off.”

Elyse paused, then denied it with a shake of her head. “No, it’s just that the snow is really thick and tough to walk through.”

Irving still seemed unsure. He stooped to gauge her state more closely. Seeing that her face wasn’t red, he felt more at ease. “Alright. Would you like to take a break, or are you ready to start practicing?”

Elyse set her violin case on the bench, retrieved her violin, and said firmly, “I’m ready to practice.”

“Alright, begin whenever you’re ready.” Irving settled onto the bench, hands tucked in his pockets, and watched Elyse intently.

Elyse began to play, choosing pieces at random.

During her fifth piece, a tall figure approached from behind. The man was wrapped up, his face completely obscured.

Elyse and Irving, feeling secure and undisturbed, ignored the approaching man. Thus, they were taken by surprise when he swiftly reached into Elyse’s pocket, stealing her wallet. Irving only realized what happened when it was too late.

“That damned thief! He can’t get away!” Irving jumped up and ran after him.

Elyse, stunned by the sudden theft, felt her mind go blank.