Chapter 71:

Elyse's eyes widened in shock after blurting out the words, and she instinctively covered her mouth. The audacity of her statement was clear. She glanced guiltily at Jayden, whose expression was pained. The thought hadn't even been supposed to cross her mind. Realizing her mistake, Elyse felt an overwhelming urge to escape. But before she could move, Jayden swiftly grabbed her waist, pulling her close. In the process, she accidentally pressed against a sensitive area, causing him to frown and sharply inhale. Fear surged through Elyse; she struggled and squirmed to break free, but his grip tightened. He couldn't resist the tantalizing sensation.

"Why must you be so naughty? Believe me, I could easily take you right here and now," Jayden said, his voice dangerously low, his eyes flashing with desire and warning.

"You wouldn't," Elyse said, though frightened.

Jayden sneered, sensing her lack of fear. He trailed a hand downward, nearing her thigh, and Elyse's heart pounded.

"I won't defy you," she murmured, her voice laced with surrender.

Gazing at her submission, Jayden sneered. "So you doubted my capabilities? I can assure you, I'm more than capable of proving it."

"No, please, spare me," Elyse pleaded, shaking her head.

Jayden loosened his grip and carried her back to the bed. "Are you still angry with me?"

To change the subject, Elyse pouted and asked, "Tell me, am I sharp?"

Jayden fell silent, contemplating her question. He knew Elyse well, but couldn't honestly say she was particularly bright. Remembering Driscoll's advice, he reluctantly replied, "You are sharp," despite his true thoughts.

Elyse's face lit up. "I knew it! I was just caught in a trap. You can't call me foolish in front of others anymore."

Jayden found her childishness amusing and ruffled her hair gently. "Alright, I'll only call you foolish when we're alone."

Elyse playfully rolled her eyes.

A knock echoed from the door. Driscoll stood respectfully at the doorway. "Sir, ma'am, there's a guest downstairs."

"A guest? It's been ages since we had a guest, especially since we got married," Elyse said, puzzled.

Jayden helped her off the bed, tidying her clothes. "Well, Peyton's a guest, isn't he? He's your doctor. He comes often. He doesn't count."

"I'm curious who this visitor is," Elyse retorted, pushing his wheelchair toward the elevator. "An uninvited guest usually brings trouble."

"Don't get your hopes up," Jayden warned.

Elyse nodded attentively. On the ground floor, they saw a man in a suit admiring the fish tank.

The man turned, smiling. "Long time no see, my dear cousin Brook. Glad to see you."

Jayden returned the smile, shaking his hand briefly before moving to the sofa with Elyse.

Seated opposite, Brook Owen observed Elyse. "Is this your wife, Elyse Lloyd?"

Elyse glanced at Jayden and replied, "Hello, Brook. I'm Elyse, Jayden's wife. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Brook nodded, a touch of admiration in his voice. "She doesn't strike me as someone who would betray you. You're a lucky man, bro."

Elyse was puzzled. "What did he mean by that?" It was an odd compliment, suggesting she might cheat on Jayden.

Jayden's tone turned unfriendly. "What brings you here? You're not simply checking on my wife, are you?"

"I'm here to deliver a message. Grandpa Enzo's birthday is in five days, and he invites you and your wife," Brook replied, legs crossed, leaning back casually. "Isn't that delightful? Even Grandpa Enzo extended an invitation. He pities you and wants to see you back on your feet."

Jayden responded, "Thank him for me. I'll be there with my wife." Then, harshly, "Can you leave now?"

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