?<strong>Chapter 817:</strong>


    He then yfully chided her in a light-hearted manner, “If only you hadn’t been so genuine and devoted in our own affair, moving on and finding someone new wouldn’t have been so challenging.”


    Elyse chuckled in response, retorting, “So, it’s my fault for being too sincere?”


    Theo chuckled too, but he bowed his head to hide his red eyes as he fought back the wave of emotions surging within him.


    He covered his face with his hand, a shield against his own vulnerability and helplessness, and continued to reproach her, “Had you been indifferent, treated me casually, and just used me, I surely would’ve fallen for Freda when I met herter. But…”


    But Elyse was too exceptional.


    Theo realized there indeed was a woman in this world capable of loving him with her entire heart and soul. With her, he didn’t need to strategize, tally scores, or engage in any intense maniptions. With her, he could simply be Theo Ward—just a man, nothing more, nothing less.


    After a brief pause, Elyse exhaled a weary sigh. “Please don’t cry. I’m not good at consoling you anymore.”


    “I’ll try to hold back,” he replied, his voiceced with a bitter sadness.


    To mask her difort, Elyse resumed eating in silence. The waiter had already brought out all their dishes.


    Since she was famished after thepetition, she concentrated solely on satisfying her hunger, barely noticing anything else.


    Once Theo regained some control over his feelings, he looked up to see Elyse thoroughly enjoying her meal. His own appetite had vanished. He simply rested his chin on his hand and watched her intently.


    Feeling his eyes on her, Elyse nced up to find him staring. Surprised, she inquired, “Why are you just sitting there? Aren’t you going to eat?”


    Theo hesitated, about to confess hisck of appetite, but Elyse insisted warmly, “You are the one asking me out today; you might as well enjoy it and have a good meal. Got it?”


    Pausing briefly, Theo nodded, then began to eat using his fork.


    They continued their meal in silence for a time.


    Approaching the meal’s end, Theo let out a heartfelt sigh. “Ever since we split, I’ve wanted to share a meal like this with you. Only today have I managed to.”


    Elyse gave him a yful smile. “Were you that keen on treating me?”


    “Yes, I suppose it’s because I didn’t do right by you when we were together. I’ve been trying to make amends ever since,” Theo confessed openly.


    Elyse shook her head gently. “You’re overthinking it. I don’t need anypensation from you. Don’t burden yourself with that thought.”


    Theo responded with a wistful smile, then bowed his head and continued eating.


    After finishing the main course, Elyse indulged in her dessert and then posed a question. “So, when will you tell me about Jayden?”


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