Chapter 832:
That was the last straw for Elyse. She spun around, her voice weary yet firm. “Why should I care who he values more? I am my own priority. I don’t need his validation to affirm my worth.”
Her gaze was piercing as she issued her ultimatum. “Let’s keep it quiet until the food arrives. Speak out of turn, and I’ll have both of you removed. Nobody will dine with me then.” With that, she turned away, resolute in her silence.
Edward, sensing her anger, chose not to provoke her further, though his disdain for Jayden simmered beneath the surface. He despised Jayden for winning Elyse’s affection first. In his mind, he was just as worthy. He believed his talent and physique, honed by regular exercise, put him on par with Jayden. He was convinced that just one night with him would sway Elyse permanently.
Unaware of Edward’s thoughts and unsure of Jayden’s reticence, Elyse relished the temporary peace. Soon, the waiter arrived with their meals. Ravenous, she eagerly grasped her utensils and began to carve into her steak, welcoming the distraction.
After finishing her meal, she laid down her terms firmly. “Once you’re done eating, I want you both to leave immediately. Don’t linger.”
Edward, sipping water with a cunning grin, replied, “But we live in the same hotel. We’ll be heading the same way, remember?”
Realizing the situation, Elyse turned to Jayden. “You need to leave now. I need some rest.”
Jayden held her gaze, his reluctance evident. However, his phone rang. Glancing at the caller ID with a furrowed brow, he stepped away to answer, distancing himself from the table.
Edward didn’t waste a moment, leaning in towards Elyse. “I’ll bet that call is from Aarya.”
Elyse, caught off guard, questioned, “How can you be sure?”
“Because he made sure to move away before taking the call,” Edward explained with a conspiratorial smirk. “He probably doesn’t want us overhearing his sweet nothings to his girlfriend.”
A shadow crossed Elyse’s face as she pondered Edward’s words, her doubts mounting. She didn’t challenge his presumption; she shared the same thought. Whose call could make Jayden step away? Only Aarya’s.
Suppressing her dismay, Elyse silently deepened the rift between herself and Jayden. The ambiguity of their relationship was no longer bearable; she recognized it served neither of them well.
When Jayden returned, he hastened toward Elyse and quickly said, “I have an urgent matter to deal with.” Then, turning to Edward, he added, “Please keep her safe for me.”
Edward sneered. “Of course, I’ll look after her.”
Elyse, her eyes following Jayden, asked, “What’s going on? Where are you headed?” Unbeknownst to her, her voice carried a blend of nervous curiosity and hopeful anticipation.