?<strong>Chapter 1272:</strong>


    Pearce’s smirk was sharp, his eyes glinting with a challenge that his smile failed to mask.


    “Your audacity knows no bounds, does it?”


    Aware that Jayden wouldn’t be easily cowed, Pearce reluctantly epted the situation, his mind already plotting ways to undermine his rival at the earliest opportunity.


    After navigating their way out of the airport’s bustling environment, they made their direct path to a nearby restaurant. Inside, Pearce led the way to a private dining area, his prior arrangements evident in the borate spread of exquisite dishes waiting at the table, prepared to impress yet orchestrated with precision.


    Upon seeing all her favorite dishes spread before her, Elyse’s eyes sparkled with delight.


    “Oh my gosh, I’ve missed these so much! Thest few weeks, I never had the chance to indulge like this.”


    She eagerly seized the fork and knife, savoring the first bite with evident joy.


    Pearce, resting his cheek against his palm, watched her with a tender smile, his heart brimming with fulfillment.


    “There’s no hurry, Elyse. Take your time and enjoy. If something catches your fancy, let me know and I’ll order seconds.”


    His words were barely out when he spotted Jayden reaching for his own set of utensils.


    Annoyance red within Pearce as he mmed his palm down on the tabletop, a sharp sound echoing through the air.


    “Hold it right there! This isn’t for you. You should get your own.”


    Unruffled, Jayden met Pearce’s stern look and countered, “I’m just as hungry. Why can’t I join in?”


    “Fuck off! Go eat dirt!” Pearce’s voice rose, a surge of anger driven by memories of Jayden’s mistreatment of Elyse. If it were up to him, he’d make sure Jayden regretted his past actions deeply.


    In an attempt to calm the brewing storm, Elyse interjected gently, “Let’s not spoil the meal, Pearce. Ignore him and let’s focus on this feast. It’s absolutely delicious.”


    Persuaded by her soothing words, Pearce rxed, his irritation giving way to amusement, and he resumed his meal.


    With the conflict defused, Elyse found her enjoyment of the meal deepening.


    Once they had finished, Pearce, now in a contemtive mood, inquired softly, “So, now that you’re here, are you thinking of staying with your family for a while?”


    “Yeah, I’d be d to stay at your ce for a bit,” Elyse said with a rxed smile.


    Pearce felt he hadn’t been clear.


    “Not my ce,” he corrected quickly.


    “The Benson Mansion.”


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