?<strong>Chapter 1496:</strong>


    The group was visibly charmed by Elyse, who seemed even more endearing in person.


    The room buzzed with banter.


    “Wow, Pearce has been hiding a beautiful cousin like you? Some of us have been on the market way too long!”


    “Pearce definitely ys favorites! Victor already knows Elyse. They’re both in for some good-natured ribbing!”


    “Don’t sweat it, Elyse, we’re all decent folks here,” chimed in another, smoothing over the yful teasing.


    Elyse’s cheeks turned a deep shade of red as she edged closer to Chloe, feeling somewhat overwhelmed.


    Chloe whispered reassuringly, “You clearly haven’t hung around guys much. Just take it easy and chat with them.”


    Elyse’s head spun slightly, but Chloe’s encouraging words anchored her, allowing her to cautiously engage with their probing questions. As the conversation took a turn towards personal rtionships, Elyse unexpectedly revealed her divorced status.


    Silence suddenly nketed the room.


    Just then, Pearce and Victor strolled in, surprised by the stark quietude. Pearce raised an eyebrow. “Why’s it so quiet in here? This isn’t like you.”


    Flushed with embarrassment, Elyse had been nervous about Pearce’s dinner possibly being a setup to make her meet his friends. She feltpelled to be upfront about her past.


    “Really, Pearce?” someone challenged. “You let such a kind, lovely cousin marry a jerk!”


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    Pearce’s features stiffened. “I didn’t even know Elyse back when she got married!”


    Regret twisted inside him. He felt a burden of responsibility. Had he met Elyse sooner, perhaps she could have avoided all the turmoil with Jayden.


    Elyse gently shook her head. “The marriage wasn’t a disaster, honestly. It actually helped me recognize some personal faults. I’m genuinely happy with my life now.”


    “Wow, Elyse, you’re a saint!” someone dered.


    A shy smile touched Elyse’s lips. “Oh, I’m hardly that,” she said with a dismissive wave. “I’ve got plenty of ws.” Laughter and conversation filled the air once more.


    As the meal was served, everyone dove in.


    Pearce, keen to show his brotherly affection, kept loading Elyse’s te with more food.


    “Pearce, I’m not a child,” Elyse whispered, her voiceced with amusement. “There’s no need for the extra fuss.”


    “Just let me strut my stuff a bit, okay?” Pearce murmured back, leaning in closer. “I have to keep up appearances here.” Elyse rolled her eyes, at a loss for words.


    Victor chimed in suddenly. “Hey, Elyse, any ns on moving out of your ex’s ce soon? A buddy of mine is selling his house, and I might snag you a great deal.”


    Elyse caught Chloe’s eye before responding, “I’m just waiting on myst paycheck. I’ll start house hunting as soon as it’s in my hands.”


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