?<strong>Chapter 1039:</strong>


    Edward, surprised and delighted by her praise, said, “Then I must have made a great impression on you, right?” Elyse paused for a moment and then agreed. Despite everything, Edward had indeed made an impressive effort.


    “So, Miss Elyse Lloyd, if I say I truly want to be with you, would you consider it?” Edward stopped and turned to her, his smile fading into a serious expression.


    Elyse looked conflicted.


    Edward continued, “I know it’s not ideal to confess my feelings a day after Jayden’s tragic news, but I feel this is my opportunity to pursue you. I sense that your ex still holds feelings for you, and I want to express my feelings before he does. I aim to be first, giving you more time to consider me.”


    Elyse had expected this revtion to some extent and wasn’t taken by surprise. With a grave tone, she responded, “Since you’re being earnest, I will be too. Since learning of Jayden’s situation, I’ve been quite unsettled. I can’t ept your feelings right now.”


    Edward replied, “I understand that you’re stilling to terms with his situation. But if I were to find evidence of Jayden’s fate, would you then consider me as a potential partner?”


    After a lengthy pause, Elyse nodded.


    Edward exhaled in relief and smiled, pleased to have secured her promise to consider him. For him, Jayden’s death was a certainty. He didn’t question the reality of the incident and was determined to discover Jayden’s remains to help Elyse find closure.


    ncing at his watch, Edward said, “The surprise I have nned for you is almost set.”


    Elyse inquired, “What kind of surprise?”


    Edward led Elyse to an observation deck, where they waited for ten minutes. Suddenly, the sky burst into a disy of heart-shaped fireworks—one pink heart after another illuminated the night, continuing for some time.


    Elyse felt ambivalent. How deep was Edward’s affection?


    Edward asked eagerly, “So, do you like it?”


    Elyse mustered another smile. “I do. It’s beautiful, and the pink hearts are very creative.”


    Edward, pleased with the praise, replied, “Oh, it’s just about making an effort.”


    Upon Elyse and Edward’s return to the Moon Pce, Louise met them with a yfully stern demeanor. Her attention quickly centered on Elyse, eager to learn every detail about her date with Edward.


    Louise followed Elyse to her room and wasted no time starting her questioning. “What happened between you two today? No kissing? No hugging? No hand-holding?”


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