Chapter 588:

Fiona shook her head. "I can't clearly recall that day. Elyse was terrified and imagining things. That's why she claimed I didn't try to save her. I distinctly remember assisting her, but those men were incredibly strong."

Gavin sneered. "Your statements are inconsistent and scarcely believable."

Fiona bristled. "Why aren't my words convincing? You're obviously biased. You only want to hear Elyse's perspective; you don't care about mine."

Gavin's anger intensified. His tone turned icy. "Fiona, do you realize what you're saying?"

Gavin was mindful of his conduct toward his fellow violinists. He feared showing favoritism might lead to jealousy and dissatisfaction. For Fiona to speak to him like this questioned his competence and demeanor.

With a stern expression, Gavin continued, "You accuse me of treating you poorly and favoring Elyse. Then why are you shouting at me?"

Fiona laughed icily. "What a hypocrite. If you don't wish to speak with me, then don't. I have no desire to converse with you either."

Gavin remained unfazed.

After a brief pause, Fiona grasped the implications of her words and regretted her hasty outburst. Observing her evasion, Gavin discerned her genuine remorse. He said icily, "To you, I'm utterly inadequate, right? When Mr. Tucker returns, I'll inform him personally that I won't be concerned with you anymore."

Fiona wished to apologize, but the moment had passed. Even if she wanted to express remorse, she couldn't. However, she still believed she wasn't entirely wrong. Gavin and Irving both highly favored Elyse, treating her with exceptional kindness while ignoring Fiona. They indulged Elyse's feelings, and Fiona had grown tired of being overlooked.

After reflecting, Fiona resolutely refused to yield. Gavin chose to disregard her from then on. He noticed the nail polish on the table and considered discarding it. However, understanding that Fiona didn't mind if it interfered with her playing, he decided it wasn't necessary.

After another glance, Gavin averted his eyes, grabbed his coat, and prepared to leave. Taking a few steps, he paused and turned back to Fiona. "Regardless of your feelings toward us, Elyse doesn't deserve this treatment. You should visit the hospital and apologize to her."

Without waiting for Fiona's reaction, Gavin exited the studio. Stepping outside, he encountered Freda approaching. She assured him she would help and visit daily to assist.

Noticing Gavin's displeasure, Freda sensed his anger. Surprised—she always perceived Gavin as composed and incapable of quarreling—she was taken aback by his evident frustration. Gavin stood at the entrance, barring her entry.

Blinking innocently, Freda said, "What's troubling you? I'm here to help. You can give me any instructions." Suggestively, she even extended a finger to playfully lift Gavin's chin.

Gavin remained composed, contradicting her expectations. His grim expression darkened. Realizing the severity of his mood, Freda moderated her actions, feigning calmness. "What's troubling you? Are you in a bad mood? Do you need assistance today? I'm happy to help."

Gavin cast a frosty glance at her. "You've got way too much free time. Just go home and stop lingering around me."

Undeterred, Freda hurried after him, pleading, "Where are you going? Take me along; I genuinely want to assist."

Gavin scrutinized her. "You want to help me? Or is there another motive? If I don't mention it, do you think I can't discern your intentions?"

The ellipsis at the end suggests more text follows, which I have not included in the cleanup.