Chapter 1421:
Jayden turned to Elyse with an exaggerated look of mock despair. “Oh no, what a pity. I'd really love to attend
one of these events, but it seems I'm never in the right circle.”
Completely oblivious to the faint tension crackling between the two men, Elyse said earnestly, “I'll ask Zayn if
you can calong next time.”
“That'd be awesome,” Jayden replied, his smile tightening around the edges.
Elyse scratched her head, her brow furrowed in quiet confusion.
Something about Jayden didn’t seem quite right.
His mind appeared entirely preoccupied with his work, his thoughts consumed by financial matters. Could
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtsomeone like that genuinely value the beauty of music?
A storm of questions churned in her thoughts, though she chose to keep them to herself.
Victor fixed his eyes on Jayden, speaking with deliberate seriousness. “Pearce and | had a conversation about
you earlier. He's concerned that you might end up making Elyse’s life unhappy. He's been wrestling with whether
he should encourage her to find someone better, someone who can truly bring her joy.”
“As Elyse’s cousin, Pearce has every right to be protective,” Jayden responded with icy composure, “but | don’t
see how that has anything to do with you.”
Victor's face grew more resolute. “I'm Pearce’s best friend. | care deeply about Elyse and want nothing but her
happiness.”
He hesitated for a moment before continuing with a faint smile. “Elyse is truly remarkable. Don’t you think she
might find even greater joy with someone else?”
Jayden’s chest tightened as his heart skipped. He was sure he understood Victor's insinuation.
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A sly grin spread across his lips. “Elyse’s happiness lies withand no one else.”
Victor's mouth curved into a restrained smile. “Where does all that self-assurance cfrom? Honestly, Jayden, |
believe Elyse would thrive with just about anyone other than you.”
“That's your perspective,” Jayden replied sharply.
“And that’s yours,” Victor shot back with equal force.
Elyse, standing awkwardly between them, had initially assumed their exchange was lighthearted teasing. But the
rising tension between their words revealed something much deeper.
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She stepped forward and pushed them apart, her glare stern as she faced each of them. “What's wrong with you
two? Honestly? Do you think my happiness hinges entirely on being with a man? Can't | find joy in my own way?”
Victor stumbled over his words. “That's not at all what | meant. Of course, you can be happy on your own. | just
meant having someone who loves you can make things even better.”
“Those are two completely separate ideas,” Elyse responded, her expression firm and displeased. “It’s late. I'm
ready to go home.” She turned toward the car, but Victor quickly stopped her with a hurried, “Please, just
consider what I've said, all right?”
“I will,” Elyse answered, her tone steady. “I'll let you know what I decide.”
Victor nodded in agreement, his eyes following her as she stepped into the vehicle.
Jayden had remained silent, his gaze locked on Victor with unyielding focus. He could feel Victor's underlying
intentions toward Elyse. Victor finally shifted his attention back to Jayden, his expression calm, a faint smirk
tugging at his lips. “Is there something you'd like to say?”