?<strong>Chapter 833:</strong>


    “It’s nothing for you to worry about. Don’t dwell on it. I’ll take care of this quickly ande back to you,” Jayden replied casually. With that, he left swiftly.


    As Jayden disappeared from view, Elyse was overwhelmed by a swirl of conflicting feelings. Memories of countless moments, when Jayden had dismissed her with those same empty assurances, flooded her mind. He had promised to be open with her, yet time after time, he chose to keep his secrets hidden.


    Elyse wrestled with finding any reasonable justification for his behavior other than a deep-seated mistrust. If Jayden couldn’t trust her, then who did he confide in? Aarya?


    Elyse’s thoughts raced, desperately seeking answers that remained out of reach. All she knew was that this persistent doubt had transformed into an almost insurmountable mental hurdle, a relentless torment that haunted her mind.


    At that moment, Edward noticed a flicker of difort in Elyse’s expression. He lowered himself to her level and, as if coaxing a child, gently asked, “Are you upset that your ex-husband cares about someone else now?”


    Elyse looked away, her voice tinged with mild irritation. “Why would I be upset? Isn’t it the most natural thing to happen?”


    “It is, but I don’t want to see you unhappy. Perhaps, you can give me a chance to bring some joy back into your life. What do you think?” Edward asked, his eyes shining with hopeful determination.


    Elyse sighed and crossed her arms defensively. “Edward, don’t waste your energy on me. I know I’m not ready for a rtionship, and I don’t want to use you to mend my heart.”


    Smiling genuinely, Edward replied, “I understand your hesitation. But like I told you before, I’m fine with being your emotional bandage, even if you heal and move on with someone else.”


    Despite her resolve, Elyse was moved by his sincerity. “Why must you be so humble? I mean, you can easily get someone better than me.”


    Hearing this, Edward straightened up and raised an eyebrow. “I believe you’re the best choice for me, and that’s what counts. As for being humble, I don’t think so. I feel I’m a bigger man, nothing short of handsome.”


    Elyse couldn’t help but chuckle at his unexpected boldness. “You are rather handsome, yes.”


    “See, I knew it. Especially with this fearless pursuit of love, nothing can stop me!” Edward said with a grin. He tried to unbutton his shirt, eager to unt his physique, but Elyse quickly stopped him.


    With a teasing nce, Edward yfully remarked, “You’re single now, so why not give me a shot? I’d be more than honored to be your rebound, even if it leads nowhere.”


    Swallowing hard, Elyse hesitated, a touch of uncertainty crossing her face. After a moment of thought, she let out a reluctant breath. “Alright, I’ll think about it.”


    A beaming smile lit up Edward’s face. Eagerly, he gripped her shoulders and eximed, “You said it! You’re considering me, so that’s settled! No other guys allowed!”


    Feeling slightly overwhelmed by his unrestrained enthusiasm, Elyse covered her face and eximed, “I heard you the first time! Stop it!”


    Realizing his overzealous reaction, Edward quickly calmed down. “Okay, okay,” he said, trying topose himself. “I got a bit carried away. Sorry, don’t hold it against me.”


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