Chapter 995:

Reluctantly, Mabel grabbed the nearest cleaning tools and began to scrub, affecting a convincing show of diligence. After watching her for a few moments, the middle-aged man lost interest. With the concert fast approaching, he had bigger things to worry about than a maintenance worker.

Once sure the man was gone, Mabel dropped the cleaning tools as if they were toxic. “Mabel? What are you doing here?” Just as she thought she was safe, a familiar voice echoed.

Mabel spun around. Theo’s curious gaze sent a chill through her. She never imagined encountering him there. Disoriented, she felt as if she were dreaming. Her silence was profound before her eyes turned icy. “Why are you here?”

Theo studied her, then hesitated. “Are you an employee here?” He lifted her badge, scrutinized it, and placed it down. A flicker of triumph passed through Mabel when he failed to recognize the counterfeit. For all his acumen, he wasn’t infallible.

She snatched her badge back, rolling her eyes. “Is there a reason for your presence? If not, I suggest you leave at once and stop interrupting my work,” she declared.

Theo considered this, then offered, “We’re old friends. Perhaps we could catch up later?” This infuriated Mabel.

“When were we ever friends? Did you ever see me as one? All you see is Elyse. I’m nothing to you. Just leave! You’re making me sick.”

Theo’s grin turned sinister, his eyes glinting with malice, sending another chill through Mabel. Painfully aware of his malevolence, having endured his cruelty firsthand, she’d resolved never to feel anything for him again. Yet, she felt a twinge of envy towards Elyse. Despite his mistreatment of Elyse, he never showed his darkest side around her. He always wore a mask. This made her resent Elyse even more. Why did everyone adore and protect Elyse? Why was no one there to protect her? Then it hit her—she wasn’t completely alone. Hyde was willing to stand by her. Warmth flooded through her at the thought.

Seeing the shift in her demeanor, Theo quipped, “What’s your angle? You’re trying to drive a wedge between us, aren’t you?”

His intentions were clear as her anxiety increased. He taunted, “Honestly, I doubt someone like you could ever attract a worthy partner. I’m curious to see what sort of disaster you’ve entangled yourself with.” . . .