Chapter 1146:
“It’s okay. As long as it’s you, I’d do anything,” Edward’s voice held a touch of desperation, though pride gleamed in his eyes. He knew Elyse couldn’t stand seeing him looking so pitiful.
When they arrived at the racecourse, Elyse changed into riding gear. Her long hair was tied up high, giving her an air of sharp elegance.
When Edward emerged after changing, his eyes sparkled with delight. He hurried over to Elyse, exclaiming, “That outfit looks amazing on you! You’re stunning!”
Elyse glanced at her reflection and shrugged casually. “It’s pretty ordinary. Anyone could pull this off.”
“Not in that way! Only you can rock it like that,” Edward insisted earnestly.
Elyse pouted playfully. “Don’t exaggerate. Louise is way prettier than me. I’m jealous of her blue eyes.”
“Louise is definitely pretty, but I find you even more beautiful. You’re the kind of person I truly prefer,” Edward said sincerely, his eyes softening.
Elyse chuckled, teasing, “You’re just seeing me through rose-colored glasses.”
With a smile, he replied, “Yeah, and that’s because you’re beloved.”
Elyse felt herself freeze, caught off guard by the weight of Edward’s words. She was well aware that he had feelings for her, but she never quite grasped how relentless he could be.
A troubled look clouded her face as she struggled to meet his eyes. She couldn’t shake the feeling that suggesting this date—it felt like she had stumbled right into trouble.
Noticing her discomfort, Edward pressed on. “Are you feeling guilty? Like you’re letting down or betraying my feelings?”
Elyse opened her mouth to respond but ended up giving an awkward nod.
Edward burst into laughter, a sound both warm and disarming. “I knew you felt that way! But I’m not giving up on you. Everyone deserves a shot at their own happiness, right?”
Elyse sighed, feeling the weight of helplessness settling in. “Why do you have to put yourself through this?”
Edward gently traced his finger over her cheek, and with a soft smile that melted away much of her confusion, he said, “We came here for a date, after all. Let’s have some fun and make happy memories instead of feeling guilty and leaving both of us feeling down.”
Elyse hesitated, then nodded silently.
Edward uncovered her mouth and gave her a gentle push forward. “Let’s go!” he exclaimed, eyes gleaming with excitement. “I can’t wait to show off my skills.”
Stumbling into the horse ranch, Elyse listened intently as the coach detailed the horses’ quirks and basic riding techniques. As the lesson concluded, it was time to put theory into practice. With trembling hands, Elyse mounted her horse. She had barely gotten accustomed to its slow walk when Edward, trotting beside her, displayed his expertise in full.
He was in his element atop the horse. He gripped the reins with practiced ease, guiding the animal with fluid movements. His face glowed with pure joy—a sight that captivated Elyse despite her lack of romantic feelings for him.
“You’re a natural at this,” Edward teased good-naturedly. “Take your time and practice. I’ll do a few laps to warm up.”