Chapter 834: noveldrama

Understanding, Elyse nodded. “I get that you’re excited, but try to tone it down a bit. I’m not going to think about anything romantic until after the competition. Let’s talk about it then, okay?”

Edward nodded. “That’s fair. The competition is the focus, and afterward, we’ll discuss dating.”

Elyse shook her head. “No rush. I just said I’d consider it.”

“Fine,” Edward conceded.

However, as his excitement faded, a new worry arose. He was determined to win the Swan Cup, but if he did, Elyse wouldn’t be able to, and that would disappoint her, potentially ruining his chances with her. On the other hand, if he let her win, he would be unsatisfied.

Realizing the weight of the situation, Edward knew sleep would evade him.

Elyse set out early the next morning, violin case in hand, for a practice session in the park. By midday, she took a break and went to a nearby restaurant for lunch.

Just as she settled in, Aarya appeared. Elyse immediately noticed the hickeys on her neck—a clear sign of a passionate evening. Elyse turned away, but Aarya seemed intent on getting her attention.

“What a coincidence,” Aarya remarked, placing her purse on a chair and sitting opposite Elyse.

As Aarya fiddled with her hair, more hickeys became visible. Elyse said tersely, “Don’t sit across from me. We aren’t friends.”

Aarya sneered. “What’s the matter? I’m just greeting you. Why the hostility?” Elyse’s expression soured.

Aarya cocked her head. “Is it because I nearly drowned you? Or left you freezing outside? Or perhaps…” She paused, leaning forward with a wicked grin. “Is it because I was with your former husband?”

Elyse snapped. “What do you want? Are you so eager to parade yourself in front of me?”

Aarya’s delight grew with Elyse’s frustration. So what if Elyse had once been married to Jayden? Aarya had intentionally come to stir trouble, enjoying Elyse’s anger.

Laughing, Aarya exclaimed, “Your ex-husband, now my boyfriend, is a beast in bed. Despite my protests, he continues unabated. He even tells me to be more submissive.”

With one hand under her chin, Aarya spoke with feigned curiosity. “Why do you think he’s untamed now? Could it be that he prefers my company because he finds me more agreeable?”

Elyse, struggling to keep her composure, responded coolly, “Your intimate details don’t interest me. If you’re so inclined to share, why not broadcast it online?”

Aarya dismissed the idea. “That wouldn’t suit him. He’s too reserved. He’s never around in the mornings.” . . .