Chapter 791:

“First place. He pulled it off,” the owner said with a fond chuckle. He took a cigarette from his pocket, his smile growing as he recalled, “One night after I closed late, I saw him practicing alone in a park.”

The shop owner’s smile widened. Fond memories lit up his face. “I was afraid I’d mistaken someone else for him, so I patiently waited an hour, and it turned out it was really him,” he said delightedly.

Elyse chuckled at the amusing story.

As the owner took a deep drag from his cigarette, he remembered Elyse and Edward. “What can I help you with today?” he asked warmly. “My shop has everything you might need.”

“You’ve finally caught on that we’re just customers,” Edward responded teasingly, placing his items on the counter.

“Ah, old age makes one nostalgic,” the owner said, taking the items. He then asked, “Are you both violinists as well?”

Edward nodded. “Not only that, but we’re also competitors in the Swan Cup finals,” he said proudly.

The owner looked surprised, glancing at Elyse. “So, who do you think will win? You or him?” he asked curiously.

“Me, of course,” Elyse responded confidently, smiling playfully.

The owner laughed heartily as he rang up their purchases. “I see you both have a strong sense of pride. Like father, like daughter,” he remarked.

Elyse blushed, sheepishly scratching her head.

Outside, Edward playfully jabbed, “Don’t even dream of first place. That title will be mine.”

Elyse scoffed. “We’ll just have to see at the finals,” she countered playfully.

Edward chuckled, scratching his nose. Eager to win Elyse’s affection, he wouldn’t yield in the competition. He planned to wait until after the tournament to make his move.

As Edward’s attention drifted, Elyse saw Jayden and Aarya, flanked by two imposing bodyguards.

Fury and disgust washed over Elyse at the sight of Aarya. She clutched Edward’s arm, trying to leave, but Aarya noticed.

“Elyse!” Aarya’s voice cut through the air. Elyse stopped, her back to Aarya, who gestured for her bodyguard to block Elyse’s path.

Elyse glanced at the bodyguard before fixing her eyes on Aarya. “I don’t recall us being on friendly terms,” she said impassively.

“Oh, come on, Elyse.” Aarya, aware of Elyse’s resentment, adopted an innocent tone. “Sure, I’ve made some mistakes, but look, you’re still here, aren’t you?” she said, pouting.

Elyse’s anger flared. “I nearly died because of you! Do you expect me to just smile and move on? Who do you think you are?” she retorted sharply.

. . .