Chapter 1117:

At that moment, Elyse turned to find Edward and Jayden conspiring quietly, their conversation intimate and muted. She quirked an eyebrow. “What are you two conspiring about so covertly?”

Jayden sported a sly smirk. “He said I threw him off.” Edward, rolling his eyes, shot back, “He claimed I make him sick.”

Elyse, annoyed by their constant squabbling, turned away with an exasperated sigh, silently wishing they would concentrate on the task at hand.

After locking up the shop, Anthony headed straight for home. His home wasn’t in town; instead, he drove to a secluded wooded spot near a large ranch.

As they approached, a cabin with an adjoining shed came into view; the latter was packed with expertly shaped wood for violin crafting.

Anthony, anxious, pounded on the door, his voice desperate. “Dad, please open up! I’m here. Don’t frighten me—don’t do anything rash!”

Standing in the yard, Elyse and the others wore expressions of deep concern, the gravity of the situation bearing down on them.

“Did you bring the violin back?” a rugged yet strained voice called from inside.

“Uh… not exactly. I brought the buyer with me. She’s here to discuss it with you,” Anthony responded, giving Elyse a quick, anxious glance.

Recognizing his hint, Elyse stepped forward, her tone composed yet deferential. “Sir, I would like to purchase this violin. The tale of its origin moved me deeply. It deserves a home where it will be valued. Could I possibly convince you to sell it to me?”

A profound silence enveloped the room following Elyse’s earnest appeal. Anthony’s father appeared contemplative, the seconds stretching into eternity.

At length, he replied, his voice measured and thoughtful, “I once vowed to keep this violin safe for a man until he could reclaim it. Yes, I had consented to let my son sell it to you, but I’ve reconsidered.”

Elyse’s expression showed her confusion. “But why? You had decided to part with it, hadn’t you?”

With a weary sigh, Anthony’s father explained, tinged with regret, “During a nap, I dreamt that this man reproached me for not keeping my word. It left me restless, and now, selling it doesn’t feel right.”

Elyse frowned, clearly concerned. “Why did he change his mind? What’s going on?”

Anthony shook his head, worry in his voice. “I don’t know. I need to go check on him and make sure he doesn’t do something drastic.”