Chapter 785:
Her eyes, too, seemed to mist over from the intensity of her concentration. Edward diverted his gaze, letting himself sink deeper into the rhythm of the music. When they concluded their piece, the crowd around them burst into applause. An elderly man with a flushed, red nose stepped forward, placing a hefty bill in Edward’s violin case. His laughter boomed as he turned to Edward. “That was flawless! Are you two together?”
With a shared, knowing look, Elyse and Edward burst into laughter. “No, but we’re partners, perfectly in sync.”
His curiosity satisfied, the man’s grin widened. He clapped Edward on the back and continued on his way.
Intrigued by the connection they shared through music, Elyse, her enthusiasm undimmed, proposed, “Shall we play another?”
Edward rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “What are you in the mood to play? I’m fine with anything.”
After a brief pause, Elyse ventured a suggestion. “How about ‘Think of Me’? What do you think?”
Edward’s face lit up with agreement. “That sounds perfect. Let’s dive into it.”
With mutual nods, they resumed their musical endeavor. As they played, delicate snowflakes danced in the chill air, setting a magical scene for their duet. The performance touched the audience deeply, evoking feelings of yearning, love, and delight. As the final notes faded, applause filled the air, and several spectators tossed coins into Edward’s violin case, visibly delighting him. After expressing his gratitude, he eagerly scooped up the coins.
Counting his earnings and slipping them into a wallet, Edward flashed a grin at Elyse. “Looks like I’m treating tonight. Pick anything you fancy.”
Elyse was already packing up her violin. “Go ahead without me; I’ve eaten and really should get back to practice.”
Edward stepped closer, offering a gentle objection. “You’ve earned half of this. Join me for dinner, then you can practice.”
Elyse bit her lip, indecisive. “I’ve really already eaten, though.”
“Come on, have another meal. You look like you could use it. You’re all skin and bones!” Edward urged as he steered Elyse towards a restaurant.
Elyse found herself being ushered into the restaurant somewhat against her will. Once seated, the warmth of the place overwhelmed her. She shrugged off her down jacket, draped it over her chair back, and reached for a glass of water from the table, taking a long sip.
Edward, meanwhile, perused the menu. Just as he was about to ask Elyse what she felt like eating, he noticed her sipping her water. Her hair was pulled back into a loose ponytail, a few strands rebelliously poking out, giving her an air of effortless charm and a touch of cuteness. His eyes then inadvertently dropped to a red mark peeking above her sweater’s collar. As a grown man, Edward instantly recognized what it was. He stared momentarily before returning his attention to the menu. “Want me to pick something for you?”
“Sure, I’m not picky,” Elyse replied, placing the glass back on the table and exhaling softly.
After Edward placed the order, he decided to break the ice while they waited. “So, have you seen your ex lately?” he asked casually.
Elyse tensed, her eyes narrowing slightly at Edward. She was puzzled—and a bit wary—about why he would bring up Jayden out of the blue. Narrowing her eyes, she asked, “Why are you bringing up Jayden?”
“Just wondering. I want to make sure he’s not causing you any trouble,” Edward responded, twirling his glass without taking a sip.
Elyse let out a soft sigh. “He’s a nuisance now and then, but not all the time.”
Edward quirked an eyebrow. “Do you still have feelings for him? Or does his pestering annoy you?”
Elyse’s expression tightened, her face clouding over. “It’s complicated. I can’t pinpoint my feelings, but I definitely don’t appreciate the annoyance.”
Edward offered a reassuring smile. “What if I had a plan to get him off your back?”
Elyse looked intrigued. “What are you thinking? It better not be something foolish.”
Edward shook his head, his tone earnest. “Hear me out. Pretend we’re dating. Tell Jayden you’re with me now and I’m all you care about.”
Elyse paused, visibly taken aback. After a moment, she replied, somewhat helpless, “I said no foolish ideas.”