?<strong>Chapter 261:</strong>


    After Theo departed, Freda sank into deep contemtion in the chair. She discerned Theo’s sincerity; his words weren’t a jest but earnest truth. His desire to reconcile with Elyse despite her marital status resonated deeply. Yet, Freda grappled with difort; relinquishing Theo wasn’t an option. She believed in his inherent goodness. In that moment, the phone’s ring interrupted her thoughts; it was Zandra.


    Apologizing profusely, Zandramented, “Freda, I’m sorry for Theo’s actions. I failed to rein him in, and I regret the distress he’s caused you. I’ve scolded him on your behalf and even gave him a p to bring him to his senses. I won’t condone his behavior.”


    Freda was taken aback. She originally believed that Theo did not wish to see her when he approached her wearing a mask. “Mrs. Ward,” Freda began, “whether or not you discipline him is inconsequential now. Theo and I were ipatible.”


    “That’s not true. Don’t give up so easily,” Zandra implored. “I want no one but you as my daughter-inw.”


    After Theo left home, tranquility had enveloped Zandra. Contemting Theo’s potential reunion with Elyse, Zandra pondered the Owen family’s response. Despite Jayden’s diminished influence, he still bore the Owen name. Theo’s actions would sting the Owen family’s pride. Regardless of Elyse’s standing within the Owen family, Theo’s actions would sow discord. Though the Ward family held sway, they paled inparison to the Owens. Zandra hesitated to jeopardize the Ward family’s reputation over Elyse. Thus, the alliance between the Jimenez and Ward families must proceed unhindered.


    Freda remained unaware of Zandra’s deep contemtion. She merely presumed Zandra harbored genuine affection for her. Hence, she remarked, “Mrs. Ward, Theo’s resolve is unshakable.”


    Urgently, Zandra countered, “Freda, don’t lose hope. My son’s endeavors will falter. Elyse assured me she’d renounce Theo and remain loyal to Jayden. Moreover, she’s bound in marriage. How could she abandon Jayden for Theo?” With a note of helplessness, she continued, “My son bears the me. His emotions cloud his judgment. He’ll realize his error once Elyse rebuffs him. You’re his best option.”


    Freda found herself swayed by Zandra’s persuasion. Freda hesitated to relent too readily. And she couldn’t easily forgive Theo’s transgressions. “Mrs. Ward,” Freda began, “Theo’s actions deeply wounded me. I must mull over your words carefully. This concerns my future. I cannot rush into a decision.”


    “It’s prudent to take your time,” Zandra reassured her. “But reconsider, Freda. Theo is emotional and persistent. If his rtionship with Elyse seems to be going nowhere, wouldn’t it be a positive turn if he directed his feelings towards you?”


    Freda found herself swayed by Zandra’s words. Theo possessed striking looks and came from a respectable family lineage. Observing his interactions with Elyse, Freda gleaned that he prized emotions and ountability. Contemting the prospect of marrying him and earning his affection, Freda envisioned a promising union. Though tempted by the prospect of a favorable match, Freda remained resolute. “Iprehend your point, Mrs. Ward. Yet Theo’s sincerity will determine my stance.”


    Perceiving Freda’s hesitation, Zandra expressed satisfaction. “Fear not. With you by his side, he’ll realize your worth.”


    With Freda’s decision unchanged, Zandra felt reassured regarding the marriage alliance. Freda resolved to ascertain Elyse’s sentiments. If Elyse harbored hopes for Theo, would she sumb to his pursuit? Freda’s sole recoursey in ensuring Elyse’s heart remained unmoved by Theo’s affections. When Theo faced rejection from Elyse, Freda willingly offered sce and affection.


    Meanwhile, Elyse wandered the bustling streets seeking sce in vain. Ignoring Jayden’s incessant calls, her mind spiraled into chaos. Avoiding Jayden at all costs, she grappled with his persistent hold over her. As she reached an intersection, a car halted beside her, its upants Jayden’s loyal guards urging her homeward.


    “Mrs. Owen, pleasee home with us. Mr. Owen is waiting for you.”


    “I refuse,” Elyse retorted icily, poised to flee. After uttering those words, she pivoted, ready to make her escape. Jayden’s directivesmanded the bodyguards’ actions. While they typically heeded Elyse’s wishes, in conflict with Jayden, their allegiancey with him. In no time, Elyse found herself coerced into the car.


    Seated within, she gazed at the passing scenery, her resentment simmering. Upon reaching home, she encountered Jayden’s wrathful stare in the study. Forced, she mustered a smile. His lingering anger puzzled her. What warranted his ire?


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