?<strong>Chapter 513:</strong>


    Fiona lowered her head and murmured, “I understand, Gavin. There’s no need to say more.”


    It was one thing for Gavin to speak in front of Elyse, but in front of Jayden too? Would Jayden think less of her forckingpetitive spirit, considering she had withdrawn from the contest? What if this changed his opinion of her?


    These thoughts weighed heavily on Fiona as she nced up to gauge Jayden’s reaction. Yet, Jayden’s attention remained steadfastly on Elyse, not sparing Fiona a single nce. To him, it seemed she didn’t exist.


    A wave of defeat mixed with jealousy washed over Fiona. How did Elyse manage such a fortunate life, married to a man both handsome and devoted? Why hadn’t fate granted her the same? Envy deepened Fiona’s thoughts.


    Gavin seized the moment to engage them in conversation about the Swan Cup, sharing his experiences given his familiarity with the event. Meanwhile, Jayden excused himself to answer a call from work, stepping out of the ward.


    Fiona lingered for a few minutes before standing. “Gavin, I need to use the restroom. I’ll be right back.”


    Fiona quickly exited the room.


    Elyse pointed to the private bathroom within the ward and said, “You don’t need to go outside. We have one right here.”


    Gavin shrugged. “Let her go. Maybe she prefers the restroom outside.”


    But Fiona’s intentions strayed far from visiting any restroom. She was looking for Jayden.


    She scanned the area and spotted Jayden in the small garden. Smiling, she walked toward him.


    “Jayden!” As Fiona neared him with a bright smile, her demeanor changed to one of shyness when he turned to meet her gaze.


    Jayden ended his call abruptly and eyed her with a measure of distance. “You’re Elyse’s studio fellow, right? What’s on your mind?”


    Fiona hesitated before speaking, “Do you remember intervening in an assault a few nights ago?”


    Jayden looked puzzled. “When was this?”


    “Near the Blue Sea Music Studio, you were masked,” Fiona added, her cheeks growing warmer with each word.


    She smiled softly. “If not for you that night, I might not have been able to thank you today. I recognized you immediately. I really appreciate your help.”


    Jayden regarded her thoughtfully before replying with a polite smile. “I’m sorry, Miss, but you’re mistaken. I wasn’t there.”


    Fiona pressed, “How can you deny it? I knew it was you as soon as I saw you. Why won’t you admit it?”


    He shook his head. “I’m not denying anything; it just wasn’t me. You need to find the right person.”


    Doubt crept into Fiona’s certainty. Could it really not be Jayden, despite the resemnce? Their silhouettes were so alike. Could it truly not be Jayden?


    Silence fell, heavy with her disappointment.


    Jayden rose, his tone final. “I’m sorry. I have to get back to work. Please, return to Elyse’s ward.”


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