Chapter 877:

However, she also remembered Jayden insisting that Aarya had drugged him and that he had resisted her advances, instead seeking her help. This left her even more confused.

Seeing her uncertainty, Cody suggested, “There’s no rush to seek answers today. Life is long, and if you’re unsure now, you can decide later. Eventually, the truth will come out, right?”

Elyse nodded, agreeing to Cody’s proposal. Jayden felt a deep sense of gratitude toward Cody. He couldn’t explain everything at the moment, but promised himself that once this was over, he would offer Elyse a thorough explanation. He acknowledged Elyse’s hurt feelings and resolved to spend his life making amends.

The conversation left some joyful and others apprehensive. Jayden was filled with hope, while Edward was consumed with worry.

Edward, who had revealed Jayden’s involvement with another woman, couldn’t understand why Elyse would wait for Jayden’s explanation. In his view, Jayden deserved to be out of her life. Frustrated and unable to speak, Edward clenched his teeth in silence.

Meanwhile, Cody, unfazed by the gossip, introduced Elyse to his old friends, who were quickly impressed by her. Their admiration grew when they discovered she was Rickey’s daughter.

During her conversations with them, Elyse eagerly learned about her father. Curious, she asked questions, uncovering more details from the past. Through their words, she began to form a clearer picture of his character.

She was thoroughly enjoying the lively discussions when gunshots rang out in the banquet hall. Panic ensued, and all the guests scrambled to exit.

Unfortunately, they were unable to escape; Aarya and armed men had surrounded the hall.

Aarya stood at the entrance, eyeing the frightened guests with a sinister grin. “I hear you’re celebrating the conclusion of the Swan Cup. The champion is Elyse Lloyd, right? Call her forward. I have some questions for her.”

As soon as Elyse’s name was mentioned, some guests pleaded with her to step forward for their safety.

Irving exclaimed, “Are you insane? Why should Elyse have to do this? You selfish bastards!”

“They have weapons. We’re all dead if Elyse doesn’t step forward,” one guest said, his voice laced with panic.

Cody was resolute. “I’m not letting her sacrifice herself!”

“If you try to protect her, you’ll die too,” the guest threatened, turning his desperation toward Elyse. “Are you willing to see us all die because of you?”

Elyse’s fists were clenched. She couldn’t bear the thought of anyone dying because of her, but surrendering to Aarya was not an option.

“Alright, I’ll talk to her,” she declared, pausing briefly before making her decision.

“No way! You can’t just go!” Cody and Irving protested. . . .