Chapter 840:

Darren’s face lit up. “Why this kindness? I was craving pizza, and now you’re giving me one!”

Elyse responded calmly, “Don’t think too much into it. It wasn’t my doing. Jayden ordered it.”

“If he got it, it’s meant for you. I knew it,” Darren remarked, grabbing the pizza eagerly. To him, it mattered little who made the purchase; the pizza was intended for Elyse, and as a close friend, he felt entitled to enjoy some as well.

Watching Darren savor his meal, Elyse felt more at ease and began to eat more slowly, keeping him company.

After finishing a slice of pizza, Darren noticed Elyse’s frequent distractions. He inquired with curiosity, “What’s bothering you? Was there a disagreement with Jayden? Why do you seem so distant?”

Elyse shook her head. “No, there wasn’t a fight. You’re reading too much into it.”

Darren gave a dismissive snort. “You can’t fool me. Something happened. I know you too well. What was the argument about? I feel like I should contribute something more than just eating and drinking here.”

A smile broke on Elyse’s face. She decided to open up to him, pausing briefly before asking, “What’s your perspective on love?”

Caught off guard, Darren responded, “That’s a hefty question. Hard to pin down.”

“Just share what you can,” Elyse urged, her eyes curious but patient.

“As far as I can tell, love doesn’t come with a simple answer,” Darren replied, continuing with his meal. He then reflected deeply and said, “I suppose love means deep understanding and acceptance.”

Intrigued, Elyse supported her chin with her hand and probed further, “And how should we interpret that?”

Darren thoughtfully touched his chin and started, “It’s hard to spell out completely, but I see love as accepting someone as they are.”

Elyse persisted, “Could you elaborate?”

“It means my love for you is profound, accepting you in your entirety. You don’t need to display only your strengths like joy, ambition, or energy. It’s also about being open with your flaws, selfishness, and the darker aspects of your character.”

After a pause, Darren added, “I embrace all of you, not just the appealing parts. I love all that makes up who you are.”

Elyse was taken aback by his maturity. She covered her mouth in astonishment and exclaimed, “You’ve really thought this through. I’m genuinely taken aback.”

Darren placed his hands on his hips and said with pride, “Surprised, right? I’m a good catch. Anyone who ends up with me is indeed fortunate.”

Elyse, curious, posed a question. “If you’re such a good catch, why have I never seen you with someone?”

“It’s not from a lack of desire. Opportunities have just been scarce,” Darren explained, continuing to eat his pizza and smiling. “There is someone I’m interested in, but she’s already with someone else. I wouldn’t want to disrupt that.”

Elyse was taken aback. “I had no idea you felt that way. I’m sorry, did that upset you?”