Chapter 788:

As her expression darkened, Elyse moved to shut the door, but Edward blocked it, his face falling. With a heavy sigh, he pleaded, “How long will you keep avoiding me? Was my confession really that unbearable?”

Elyse appeared distressed. “No, it’s not that. I’m just not in the mood to date anyone at the moment, so I can’t return your feelings.”

Edward, undeterred, grinned. “Then I’ll wait until you’re ready.”

Her expression darkened, and she attempted to shut the door again. Edward prevented it from closing and sighed. “What’s troubling you now?”

Elyse, biting her lip, said, “I don’t want you to waste your time waiting for me. It would be better if you moved on and found someone else, rather than holding out hope for me.”

Edward scratched his head. “Finding someone who really gets your heart racing isn’t simple. Some people search their whole lives without ever experiencing true love. But I’ve found it with you, and I’m not ready to let go. I understand you’re not ready to accept me, but I’m willing to wait.”

Elyse opened her mouth to object, but realizing she was only repeating herself, sighed and conceded, “Alright, I won’t avoid you, but that doesn’t mean I’ll be with you.”

Edward assured her, “I get it, and I won’t make you uncomfortable.” He extended the bouquet, offering it with a smile. “However, making you uncomfortable doesn’t mean you have to reject this gift.”

Elyse cradled the bouquet, her lip caught between her teeth. “I really don’t want to accept this.”

“You actually do. Otherwise, I’ll start taking off my clothes right here at your doorstep,” Edward retorted, a mischievous grin on his face as he fiddled with his shirt buttons. “I’ll show everyone how you’ve been mistreating me.”

Rolling her eyes, Elyse conceded, “Alright, stop. I’ll take it, okay?”

Edward stopped his playful act and rebuttoned his shirt, his smile broadening. “Great. Now, how about a stroll?”

Elyse’s gaze sharpened. “Don’t push your luck. I’m not going anywhere with you.”

Edward arched an eyebrow, his tone shifting to a more serious one. “You’ve heard about the contestant who was hit by a car, haven’t you? Doesn’t that spark your curiosity?”

Elyse responded warily, “Curious about what exactly?”

Edward leaned in, his voice low. “The accident occurred just two kilometers away, near a mall. It’s always packed there. Isn’t it a bit too coincidental that a finalist was involved?”

“You’re suggesting we go check it out?” Elyse asked, perplexed.

“Right. Let’s go have a look. Maybe there’s something everyone else missed,” Edward suggested, hands on his hips. “Missing one practice session won’t set us back. It’s more about experience and talent now.” . . .