Chapter 949:

“Stop talking like that, honey,” implored Mabel. “You’re the man I cherish most. Regardless of your past or who you are now, you’re still my choice.”

Mabel was sure her words had touched Hyde’s heart. After all, who could resist such fervent and exclusive affection? She was convinced her declarations would move him, blissfully unaware of his true disposition.

In contrast, Hyde felt unmoved by Mabel’s affirmations. His past experiences with similar declarations from former girlfriends had left him jaded. He didn’t require such reassurances; he found these self-important women overly engrossed in their emotions.

He managed a touched expression and whispered, “Do you truly believe that? Is your love solely for me?”

Mabel nodded gravely. “Absolutely. My feelings for you are deeper than you can imagine.”

Hyde then embraced Mabel tightly. For a brief moment, she believed she had discovered true love, envisioning a future where they could marry and start a family without delay.

After releasing her from his embrace, Hyde expressed a wish, saying, “Since your love for me is so deep, I have a request. Will you grant it?”

Mabel nodded willingly. “Of course. I’m your girlfriend; I’d do anything for you.”

Hyde’s smile widened. “Then, please invite Elyse to join us for coffee.”

His suggestion struck Mabel, chilling her smile. She questioned, somewhat vacantly, “Are you interested in her?”

Dismissing her concern with a pinch to her cheek and a smile, Hyde reassured her. “Nonsense. How could I fall for another when I have you?”

Mabel felt slighted. “Then why this insistence on seeing her? Are you trying to cheat on me? We’ve barely been together a day.”

“You misunderstand,” Hyde explained, clasping her hand gently. “My past is troubled. Not everyone can be as accepting as you. But I still want to earn the approval of your family, and I can start with your cousin.”

Relieved by his explanation, Mabel protested softly, “We don’t need Elyse’s approval to be together. She means nothing to me. Shouldn’t we just focus on us?”

Hyde’s expression clouded. “It’s important to me. I’ve always wanted to feel accepted by your family.”

Mabel opened her mouth to object, but no words came. Resigned, she nodded stiffly, her frustration evident. “Alright, I’ll fulfill your wish.”

Hyde pointed to a nearby café. “I’ll wait there. Bring Elyse.”

Mabel was startled. “Now? Not next time?”

Hyde looked puzzled. “Why wait? We’re all here in the mall. Why not meet now?”

Mabel considered asking to delay their meeting, but Hyde’s expectant gaze silenced her protests. She nodded, defeated. “Fine. You go ahead to the café, and I’ll find her.”