Chapter 1658: Anthony's shoulders shook as he nodded. "These are tears of happiness, I promise. Not sorrow." Though tears threatened to spill from her own eyes, Elyse found solace in watching Cathy console Anthony with such tenderness. The sight of Anthony-usually a pillar of strength-finding someone who could see past his stoic facade and truly understand him touched something deep within her soul. As she watched their tender moment unfold, she felt her own melancholy begin to lift, like morning mist.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtTurning to Jayden, she spoke in hushed tones. "It warms my heart to see such profound love between them. Their connection is beautiful." A fond smile played across his lips as he gently ruffled her hair. "Their joy has a way of lighting up everyone around them, doesn't it?" "As if we're any different?" Elyse quipped with a hint of mischief.
Jayden's soft laughter filled the air. “We certainly aren't. Though, if memory serves, you were threatening to kickout of the car just minutes ago." "And you understood every word of it," Elyse retorted with an exaggerated eye roll, choosing to let the matter rest.
Under Cathy's comforting presence, Anthony gradually collected himself. He accepted her offered tissue with a grateful smile, dabbing at his eyes before speaking sheepishly. "I'm sorry for breaking down like that. Seeing everyone safe just... overwhelmed me." Jayden clapped a warm hand on Anthony's shoulder. “No apologies needed, buddy. How about we celebrate with dinner and drinks tonight?" Anthony's eyes lit up with hope as they darted toward Cathy, accompanied by a nervous clearing of his throat. Cathy fixed him with a stern look that couldn't quite hide her affection.
"Just this once. But don't push your luck." "Oh?" Elyse's interest was piqued. "Is Anthony on a drinking ban?" "His recent medical check-up raised sconcerns," Cathy explained, a protective edge to her voice. "I've had to keep a close eye on his alcohol intake since then." Elyse absorbed this information with a thoughtful nod before turning her scrutiny toward Jayden.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"Why are you looking atlike that?" Jayden protested, straightening defensively. "I'm the picture of health, I'll have you know." Without hesitation, Elyse's voice took on a no-nonsense tone. "The moment we head back home, you're making that doctor's appointment." "Con, where's your faith in me?" Jayden protested, gesturing at himself. "Haven't you seen how much energy I've had lately?" Before he could continue his defense, Elyse pressed her palm firmly against his lips.
"Save your breath. If you're going to be stubborn about this, then so be it!"
Jayden couldn't help but let out an amused snort, knowing full well she had the upper hand.
Having regained his composure, Anthony's expression softened. 'I'm fine nowy truly. But what brings you all here today?"
In response, Jayden placed a violin. case on the counter with carefu movements. As he opened it, the lid revealed an aged violin covered in a layer of dust.