?<strong>Chapter 696:</strong>


    Through her sobs, Theamented, “Grandma, I’ve been friends with Forrest for so many years. Because of Elyse, I’ve lost that friendship, and now there’s no hope for peace between the two families. I can’t do what you asked of me!”


    Felicia, leaning heavily on her cane, rose slowly, made her way to Thea, and gently patted her head to soothe her. “Don’t cry, dear. I know you’ve been wronged. Rest assured, I will stand up for you.”


    Thea continued to sob. “But what about Pearce’s project? I could have helped him, but now… I can’t do anything for him anymore.”


    Felicia’s eyes softened with understanding. Sheforted her, “Sweetheart, Pearce may not realize your worth, but you still choose to assist him. He’s lucky to have a cousin like you in his corner.”


    Thea’s face showed even more grievance. “Everyone knows how much I care for him, but he doesn’t. In his heart, there’s only Elyse as his cousin!”


    The mere mention of Elyse’s name deepened the disdain in Felicia’s eyes. “It’s all Elyse’s fault! Ever since she’s returned, nothing has been right. I will make sure she pays for this! She thinks she can do whatever she wants with Pearce backing her up? Dream on!”


    Wiping away her tears, Thea said pitifully, “Grandma, I’m exhausted. I want to rest in my room.”


    “Of course, go rest, dear.” Felicia didn’t stop her, urging Thea to go to her room.


    Back in her room, Thea strolled into her bathroom, positioned herself before the mirror, and wiped away her makeup. A chuckle escaped her lips, unexpected but irrepressible.


    “Well, Elyse, your presence isn’t entirely in vain,” she mused aloud. “You can be my scapegoat!”


    She could hardly wait to see how Felicia would dole out punishment to Elyse.


    The following morning found Elyse in the yard, struggling to keep her eyes open as Gavin meticulously arranged sheet music, gearing up for their practice session.


    Cody, phone in hand, sauntered over, “I’ve got our flight tickets. We’re heading out in two days.”


    A grin yed on Cody’s lips as he looked at Elyse. “Taking you there early so you can limate, make sure you’re all set for the environment.”


    Elyse blinked in surprise, processing his words before nodding. “Alright, I get it, Mr. Tucker.”


    Noticing Elyse’s distraction, Gavin raised an eyebrow. “Got everything squared away? Ready to go abroad without any loose ends?”


    Elyse snapped back to reality, smiling. “Everything is basically done. I have no regrets.”


    “That’s good to hear.” Gavin nodded approvingly.


    They didn’t fly directly abroad because Elyse had some personal matters to attend to. Though they were unaware of her reasons, they didn’t mind apanying her.


    One morning, after practicing the violin, Elyse sat in a chair, daydreaming and gazing at the sky when the doorbell rang.


    With Gavin and Cody out shopping, Elyse was alone at home.


    She walked to the door and asked, “Who is it?”


    Thea’s cold voice responded, “It’s me, Thea Benson. I need to talk to you.”


    Why would Thea suddenly appear unannounced?


    Elyse was puzzled but opened the door anyway.


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