?<strong>Chapter 394:</strong>


    Theo’s smile held bitterness. “For you, it might sound unwee, but for me, it’s a rare opportunity to see you.” Elyse plucked at the violin strings, her tone casual. “So, should I grant Kaelyn’s wish?” Theo turned his gaze toward Elyse. “Ultimately, the decision rests with you.” Elyse felt a twinge of surprise. “I expected you to advocate for Kaelyn.” Theo chuckled bitterly. “I won’t pressure you. Sharing my feelings was about honesty, not making excuses or ying games. I want us to be open and genuine with each other.”


    The melody abruptly ceased. Elyse lifted her head. “Are you feigning dyed affection?” Theo’splexion paled. “This isn’t an act. I’m sincere about you. I understand your doubts, but given a chance, I’ll prove it to you in time.” Her fingers traced the strings. “We can’t be together. It’s best to ept it.” Theo smiled sadly. There was no way he would give up. He refused to surrender. He was determined to reim his true love, even if Elyse was wedded to another.


    Unaware of Theo’s unwavering resolve, Elyse found herself pondering over Kaelyn. She had little familiarity with Kaelyn, and Theo was their only link. Yet Elyse always believed that since she married Jayden, her ties with Theo would dissolve. Thus she couldn’t fathom why Kaelyn would cause her harm. After mulling it over, Elyse spoke up. “I have a question for Kaelyn. I’m willing to meet her.” Theo had anticipated Elyse’s refusal, but her agreement caught him off guard.


    “I need to inform Fiona.” With the violin cradled in her grasp, Elyse pivoted and strode into the studio. Engrossed in her violin practice, Fiona suddenly noticed Elyse’s approach. She halted ying, a smile gracing her lips as she inquired, “Had enough of practicing? Care for some ck tea?” Elyse shook her head. “Sorry, I’ve got some things to attend to. I’ll be back in two hours.” Fiona was taken aback. She reached out, wiping the sweat from Elyse’s brow, and spoke gently, “Handle your affairs first. You can head home afterward and practice your violin. No need to rush back.” With a grateful nce at Fiona, Elyse murmured, “Please don’t mention this to Irving. He won’t let me off easy if he finds out.” Fiona smiled knowingly. “Are you that afraid of him?”


    Elyse nodded solemnly. “He’s got quite the sharp tongue.” Waving goodbye to Fiona, Elyse turned and departed. Elyse climbed into Theo’s car. Disregarding his eager anticipation, she retrieved her phone, shooting a message to her driver requesting a pickup at the police stationter. Theo cleared his throat. “Do you remember your college ss monitor?” Elyse nodded. “Yeah. What about her?” Theo remarked, “I noticed her recent social media update. She’s tying the knot soon, and her fiance’s got a bakery. Those pastries look tempting. Thought we might swing by and give it a try.” Though his tone was casual, Theo had his own agenda. Elyse turned to him, her expression nk. “No, I lost touch with her after graduation. Besides, I’m interested in pastries, not…” Elyse’s response was firm, shutting down any suggestion implied by Theo’s words.


    Their ability to casually n outings, typical of friends, had long vanished, a reminder that they couldn’t turn back time. Theo’s face betrayed a mix of emotions. He recalled Elyse’s consistent rejections since their breakup. He sensed her detachment and indifference. Could she truly move on from their past love so swiftly? Theo doubted it. He convinced himself that Elyse harbored feelings for him buried beneath her pain and denial. Continuing to persuade himself, Theo remained convinced of Elyse’s lingering affection. “If it’s inconvenient for you, forget I mentioned it. There’ll be opportunities down the road,” Theo said, conceding.


    Elyse shook her head. “There’s no hope, Theo. Can’t you see what I’m saying? I refuse to bargain with you about our ns. Stop it. Can’t you spare me some false hope? I’ve deluded myself enough. Why do you persist in this?” Theo erupted abruptly. “Is rejection all you can offer? I’ve exhausted every effort to win you back. Give me something else to work with.” Theo’s eyes were red, his chest heaving with emotion. Elyse sensed he was on the verge of breaking down.


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