Chapter 976:

Quinn scowled, turning to Fiona in bewilderment. “What is she talking about?”

Fiona pressed her lips together, appearing sorrowful yet stubborn. Internally, she furiously denounced Elyse. How dare she call Cody so casually? Fiona envied her audacity. After leaving Cody’s studio, she had severed all connections with him. There had been moments when she needed a job or an opportunity and considered asking for assistance, but the shame of her departure held her back.

As a result, Fiona encountered numerous obstacles and endured much hardship. Her participation in the Swan Cup was possible only through a connection Kaelyn had introduced; otherwise, she wouldn’t have had a chance.

Observing how effortlessly Elyse contacted Cody over such a minor issue made it evident their bond was still strong. The ease with which Elyse sought Cody’s assistance filled Fiona with envy.

Elyse, noting Fiona’s reticence, taunted her further. “What’s the matter? Have I struck a chord? Are you too embarrassed to speak now?”

Fiona responded with a scornful laugh. “I’m just puzzled why, even though I’ve left the studio, you seize every opportunity to degrade me. Why target me alone?”

Elyse appeared utterly baffled by the accusation. “Really? Weren’t you the one harassing me? Have you forgotten your actions towards me? Do you want me to jog your memory?”

With eyes full of sadness, Fiona asked, “Elyse, remember I was once your senior. Don’t you recall how I looked after you? Didn’t you always enjoy the snacks and coffee I prepared for you?”

Suddenly, Quinn interrupted, glaring fiercely at Elyse, his expression that of a wild animal poised to attack. Elyse flinched as Quinn approached, her eyes narrowing in anger. “What do you want?” she snapped, her voice shaking slightly. Surely, he wouldn’t hit her just to defend Fiona.

Despite her hope, Elyse didn’t realize Quinn was more than willing to do just that. Suddenly, Quinn’s fist flew toward her. She froze, her body stiff with fear as a scream echoed in her mind.

“You bastard!” Edward’s voice cut through the tension as he stepped between them, his hand catching Quinn’s fist mid-swing. In one swift motion, Edward flipped Quinn over his shoulder, sending him crashing to the floor.

Quinn groaned, his face contorted in pain as he lay on the ground. . . .