Chapter 826:

Theo nodded. His voice raspy, he continued, “You were the only one who thought Kaelyn cared about me.”

Elyse fell silent, unsure how to reply.

Theo said, remembering aloud, “She was my first love, but we ended things after she was unfaithful. After we split, she left the country. Nobody knew what she was doing. But on her return, she had changed. She began trying to please me and win me back.”

“I’m not interested in what happened between you and Kaelyn,” Elyse interrupted.

Theo paused, his voice shaky. “I later realized who truly loved me.”

Elyse looked into his eyes, hesitation evident in her own. She didn’t want to hear this. Rubbing her temples, she stood up. “Have your bodyguard keep an eye on you. I need some sleep.”

As Theo watched her leave, yearning and regret filled his heart. He reached out, grabbing the hem of her dress, his eyes red. “Will you come see me tomorrow?”

Elyse was tempted to say no. Their relationship seemed too damaged to mend. Yet, seeing him so vulnerable softened her heart. She couldn’t be harsh. “I’ll come if I can,” she sighed.

Theo’s expression lightened slightly. “Then go and get some rest,” he murmured gently.

Elyse nodded and left the ward slowly. Theo lay emotionless, tears rolling down his cheeks, each slowly soaking into the pillow.

Elyse returned to the hotel, jumping when Edward appeared unexpectedly. “You scared me,” she gasped, clutching her chest.

Edward looked haggard, his eyes rimmed with dark circles, his expression sour. “Where have you been? I waited all night,” he complained accusingly. “You weren’t with that guy from yesterday, were you?”

Elyse sighed, her fatigue evident. “Can you stop? I was at the hospital all night. I’m exhausted.”

“Hospital? Are you okay? What happened?” Concern flickered across Edward’s face as he reached for her hand, his annoyance forgotten.

Pulling her hand away, Elyse explained, “It’s not me. Theo—he got stabbed. I had to take him to the hospital.”

Edward’s tension eased. “Oh, so it was him. You had me worried. I’m just glad you’re safe.” He smirked.

Elyse, feeling her energy drain, said, “You look tired. You should get some rest too.”

Edward absentmindedly rubbed his eyes. “These dark circles? They’re nothing. Seeing you is what matters.”

Her patience thinning, Elyse didn’t respond. She headed for the elevator, desperate for rest. Edward trailed behind, his grin undiminished.