Chapter 1385

“Of course not!” he declared, as if the very idea were beneath him. Elyse’s interest instantly vanished. Discussing love with him seemed pointless.

Sensing her change in mood, Pearce quickly recovered. “But, hey, I’m not against the idea,” he added. “Who doesn’t dream of falling in love someday?”

Elyse sighed softly, bitterness lacing her voice. “Love isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. There are beautiful moments, yes, but it’s also full of shadows and sorrows.”

Pearce nodded thoughtfully. “You’re right, but isn’t that what makes it so irresistible? Nothing in life is perfect—love included.”

Elyse’s skeptical gaze lingered on him. Pearce leaned in, cupping her face with a surprising tenderness. His smile was warm, but his tone was serious. “Nobody’s flawless, Elyse. That’s just how it is. And the magic of love? It’s about embracing the messy, imperfect parts, too.”

Elyse’s thoughts whirled, dismantling her old beliefs and constructing a new understanding from the fragments. She spoke quietly, but resolutely, “To truly appreciate love’s beauty, you have to accept its darkness, too.”

Pearce beamed, gently coaxing her like a restless child. “Exactly! That’s the whole package. Even the happiest couples need adjustments to keep things running smoothly.”

Elyse, ever perceptive, locked her gaze on Pearce. With heartfelt sincerity, she said, “Thank you, Pearce.”

Pearce’s brow furrowed. “Thank me? For what?”

Elyse smiled faintly. “For solving the puzzles in my heart.” She rose, slung her bag over her shoulder, and started to leave.

Before she could take a step, Pearce grabbed her arm. “Whoa, hold on! Where are you going? Stay for dinner. I’ll give you a ride home afterward.”

Elyse hesitated, suppressing the urge to contact Jayden. Finally, she nodded. “Alright. Dinner first.”

As she set down her bag, a strikingly handsome stranger emerged from behind, grinning at her.