?<strong>Chapter 789:</strong>


    Elyse paused to consider his words, then responded, “You might be right, but I really think we should stay clear of it.”


    She recalled that Gavin was already on the case at the ident site.


    Edward tried to persuade her further. “We’ll just sneak a quick peek and be back before you know it. If you feel like practicingter, I’ll join you.”


    After a moment of hesitation, Elyse sumbed to the curiosity and agreed to apany Edward to the mall.


    Upon their arrival at the mall, they unfortunately bumped into Gavin, who was directing the investigation efforts.


    Gavin looked from Edward’s mischievous grin to Elyse and asked, “Did you twoe to the mall together?”


    Caught off guard, Elyse was speechless, while Edward swiftly replied, “I needed her to help me pick up some violin strings. Thinking of that car ident, we came by to have a quick check.”


    Gavin scowled slightly and advised, “Do your shopping quickly and go back.”


    Elyse nodded, taking his words to heart. “Understood, Gavin. We’ll make it quick and leave right after.”


    Gavin didn’t doubt Elyse. Instead, he turned his attention to Edward, who stood nearby, smiling brightly.


    Gavin set the document aside, gave Edward a scrutinizing look, and asked, “Do you have to take Elyse with you just to get violin strings? Edward, I told you to keep your distance from her.”


    Elyse overheard this and shifted her gaze to Edward, her eyes filled with suspicion and caution.


    Edward poked Gavin in the chest; his voice carried a tone of grievance. “I just wanted Elyse toe shopping with me. What’s so wrong with that?”


    Gavin’s expression hardened with disdain. He stepped back and wiped the spot where Edward had poked him. “Can you try acting normal for once? Stop being so unpredictable.”


    Hearing this, Edward became slightly more subdued before looking at Elyse. “Come on. The sooner we finish here, the sooner we can get back. Otherwise, Gavin will start thinking I’m up to something.”


    Elyse stayed silent. She saw no need to call Edward out.


    Edward led Elyse into the mall, winding through several turns before they emerged into an alley.


    Elyse nced around, noticing the buildings were quite old; their architecture was mostly from thest century.


    They came to a halt in front of a shop with a gleaming ss facade.


    Edward motioned toward it. “This shop specializes in violins; it’s been here for over a hundred years. Their selection is unmatched.”


    Elyse’s curiosity piqued. “You seem to know it well. Do youe here often?”


    “That’s right. I’m a regr.” Edward leaned in closer, his voice taking on a conspiratorial tone. “I love this ce so much. I usually don’t tell anyone about it. Only you.”


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