Chapter 681:

About ten minutes later, Brian concluded his video conference and returned to the ward. Seeing Elyse bright-eyed, he exhaled a sigh of relief, a warm smile spreading across his face. “Looks like you’re recovering well,” he said.

“All thanks to you, Uncle Brian,” Elyse replied, beaming.

Hesitantly, she asked, “But you took me out against Grandma’s wishes. How will you explain it to her?”

Brian gave her a reassuring nod. “I’ll handle it. Don’t worry; she won’t blame you.”

Reassured, Elyse’s mood brightened. “I’m feeling better now. Can I go home? I don’t like being cooped up in the hospital.”

Pearce immediately agreed. “If you don’t want to stay, I’ll take you home.”

Seeing Pearce fuss over Elyse like a dutiful older brother, Brian was deeply touched. It seemed his son had grown more mature since Elyse entered their lives.

After being dropped off at home, Elyse bid farewell to Brian and Pearce. As she opened the door and walked into the yard, Gavin emerged, a smile lighting up his face.

“I heard the door and wondered if it was you,” Gavin said, running to her. “I’m so glad you’re back!”

He patted her shoulder, and Elyse recoiled from his cold touch. “Gavin, how long were you waiting? You’re freezing!”

His eyes lingered on her, hesitation visible in his furrowed brows. After several false starts, he sighed heavily. “It’s okay, Elyse. Sometimes even blood relatives can’t love you the way you deserve.”

A hush fell before Elyse whispered, “Did Pearce tell you everything?”

Gavin’s smile was tinged with bitterness. “He couldn’t hide it, even if he tried. Come inside. Mr. Tucker’s waiting.”

Elyse nodded and followed him inside.

Cody sat on the sofa, expertly replacing a broken violin string. The soft twang echoed in the quiet room.

Gavin and Elyse watched his meticulous movements.

Once the string was replaced, Cody looked up. “We’ll be leaving Cambape in a few days.”

Elyse’s eyes widened. She turned to Gavin, brows raised. “Weren’t we supposed to stay for two weeks?”

“What difference does it make?” Cody chuckled gently but firmly. “A few days won’t change anything. Elyse, don’t waste your time on people who don’t love you. You need to focus on loving yourself, understand?”

His words hung heavy with earnestness.

Elyse remained silent, absorbing his advice. Finally, she nodded. “I understand, Mr. Tucker.”

“Get some rest. You’ve had a long day.”

His voice was a warm blanket of concern, wrapping around Elyse’s weary soul.

Even without her grandmother’s love, she was enveloped by her mentor’s unwavering care. Familial love wasn’t a necessity; the bond between mentor and student could be equally profound, filling the empty spaces in her heart.

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