?<strong>Chapter 999:</strong>


    With such a shameful past, Theo seemed less formidable than he had imagined. To Edward, it was clear why they became exes.


    He saw Theo as nopetition; he just needed to nudge Elyse’s memories of the betrayal, stir her revulsion, and by highlighting Theo’s failings, he could sway her easily to his side.


    Theo disregarded Edward’s presence and changed the subject. “When are you off today? I want to invite you out for dinner. We need to talk about something important.”


    Edward cut in sharply. “Forget it. It’s too risky for you these days. You should go straight to the Moon Pce after your rehearsal. You’ll be safe there. Nobody will bother you.”


    Elyse, overhearing the conversation, paused uncertainly. The mention of “Moon Pce” made Theo’s gaze snap towards Edward. It seemed likely that someone connected to that ce, and of the right age, would be the governor’s son.


    Theo let out a mockingugh and suggested, “Maybe you can invite me to the Moon Pce too. I’ve never dined there.”


    Edward’s face tensed up. “The Moon Pce isn’t a ce for someone of your standing. Amoner like you has no ce there.”


    Undeterred, Theo retorted, “What do you mean by that? Aren’t I a friend of Elyse’s? Is this how you treat all her friends?”


    Edward managed a forced smile and scoffed, “Friend? You’re nothing but a scumbag ex.”


    Theo spread his hands wide, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “I have important matters to discuss with Elyse. How will she ever know about them if you keep interfering like this?”


    Edward’s gaze lingered on Elyse as she calmly remarked, “He probably has something urgent to tell me. I should listen to what he has to say.”


    After a long pause, Edward exhaled, clearly resigned. “Fine. I’ll give in this time.” He turned to Theo, ring. “You scumbag! I’ll allow you one chance to dine at home.”


    “Thanks,” Theo responded,pletely unbothered.


    Once the rehearsal wrapped up, the three of them went to the Moon Pce by car. Inside, Louise was seated in the living room.


    As she heard them enter, she set her teacup down and turned around, her eyesnding on the unfamiliar face. With curiosity, she asked, “And who’s this?”


    “He’s a jerk. Just keep your distance from him,” Edward muttered with disdain, his face twisted in annoyance. He was about to say more when his phone buzzed.


    ncing at the screen, his demeanor shifted. He stepped closer to Louise and whispered something in her ear. Louise’s eyes briefly met his, and she gave a small nod. Satisfied, Edward walked away to attend a meeting in the Moon Pce.


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