Chapter 943:

Seeing his resistance, Mabel placed her hands on her hips and marched up to him. “Whether you like it or not, you’re stuck with me now. I’m your girlfriend, and I’m not going to hurt you.”

Hyde turned his head slightly, avoiding her gaze. “Someone like me doesn’t deserve your care. You should stay away. People like me are meant to be alone.”

Mabel frowned. “Stop talking like that. I don’t think any less of you, so don’t put yourself down. What do you even mean by ‘people like you’? Explain it to me.” But Hyde remained silent, refusing to answer.

Frustrated by his attitude, Mabel clenched her fists but reminded herself of all the effort she’d put into winning over such a difficult man. Swallowing her frustration, she said firmly, “It’s decided. Tomorrow, we’re buying the essentials.”

Suddenly, an idea crossed her mind. She yawned dramatically and stretched. “Where’s your guest room? It’s late. I’m staying here tonight.”

Hyde could see through her act and chuckled to himself. It wasn’t surprising that Kaelyn didn’t take Mabel seriously. She was easy to manipulate, and he had no doubt he could handle her without much effort.

The next day, Elyse brought some treats to the rehearsal for her friends.

Edward accepted the jelly she handed him, feeling a bit annoyed. Once again, Jayden had brought her along. Lately, Jayden had been hovering around her, leaving Edward no chance to be alone with her.

After passing out the snacks, Elyse smiled and turned to Geraldine. “I couldn’t find that snack you mentioned last time, so I got something else instead.”

Geraldine lifted her chin, a touch of pride in her voice. “Just because you couldn’t find it doesn’t mean I can’t. After rehearsal, I’ll take you to the store myself.”

Elyse nodded, still smiling. “Sure. Thanks.”

Edward, overhearing the conversation, slipped closer. “Are you two going shopping? I’m coming along. You’re not leaving me behind.”

Elyse glanced at him, confused. How had he heard them when they were speaking so quietly?

Darren joined in, grinning as he approached Elyse. “Where are you going? I’m in. Vicky went home, so I’ve got no one to hang out with, and I’m bored out of my mind.”

In the end, Elyse and Geraldine’s quiet shopping trip turned into a full-blown group outing. Everyone was chatting, excitedly planning where to go next.

Suddenly, Geraldine, mid-sip from her water bottle, choked a little and stared at the door. “Is she here?”