Chapter 1295:
Felicia’s gaze remained fixed on Elyse, a storm of feelings swirling within her. In the soft glow of the spotlight, Elyse’s silhouette, poised with her violin, blurred in Felicia’s mind, merging with bittersweet memories of Rickey. For a fleeting moment, it was as though her son stood before her again, his talent shining through the years.
Felicia’s thoughts drifted back to the countless accolades Rickey had received, his extraordinary skill and profound understanding of music earning him admiration from all who heard him. If Rickey had pursued the violin, his brilliance would undoubtedly have eclipsed even Celeste’s greatest accomplishments.
But fate—and her own choices—had robbed him of that future. The violin, once a symbol of Rickey’s brilliance, now lay silent, its voice forever stilled. The world would never again hear his music.
A lump formed in her throat as Felicia whispered, her voice heavy with guilt and longing, “He can’t play anymore, so Elyse has taken up where he left off.”
The audience erupted in thunderous applause as Elyse concluded her performance. She acknowledged their appreciation with a graceful bow, while Chloe, beaming with pride, captured the moment on her phone, certain the footage would create a stir online.
As the celebration wound down past ten, guests began filtering out, allowing Elyse to release a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. Jayden, who had maintained a watchful presence nearby, approached her, a newfound insight reflected in his eyes.
“You’re far stronger than I ever realized,” he said thoughtfully.
Elyse met his gaze with questioning eyes, uncertain of his meaning. “What do you mean?”
“I’ve been watching you tonight,” he explained, his voice carrying a note of discovery.
“And what did you see?” Elyse asked, curiosity lacing her tone.
“I saw someone who thrives independently—in social circles, in challenging situations. Whether faced with hostility or kindness, you navigate it all with remarkable grace. You’re perfectly capable without me by your side.”
His words left Elyse speechless, their weight settling heavily in the space between them. She stared at him, her emotions shifting like waves beneath the surface.
“I never imagined you were observing me so carefully,” she finally said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Jayden watched, startled, as tears began to trail down her cheeks. “Why are you crying? I—I didn’t say anything to upset you, did I?” he stammered, clearly caught off guard by her response.
“I’ll cry if I want to,” Elyse shot back, hastily wiping her tears. “It’s none of your concern.”
Pearce, returning from bidding farewell to the last guest, noticed Elyse’s tears and immediately assumed the worst. His protective instincts flared as he stormed toward Jayden, seizing him by the collar.
“Again? How many tears must she shed before you’re satisfied? Why do you constantly hurt her?” . . .