Chapter 261:
After Theo departed, Freda sank into deep contemplation in the chair. She discerned Theo's sincerity; his words
weren't a jest but earnest truth. His desire to reconcile with Elyse despite her marital status resonated deeply.
Yet, Freda grappled with discomfort; relinquishing Theo wasn’t an option. She believed in his inherent goodness.
In that moment, the phone's ring interrupted her thoughts; it was Zandra.
Apologizing profusely, Zandra lamented, “Freda, I'm sorry for Theo's actions. | failed to rein him in, and | regret
the distress he’s caused you. I've scolded him on your behalf and even gave him a slap to bring him to his
senses. | won't condone his behavior.”
Freda was taken aback. She originally believed that Theo did not wish to see her when he approached her
wearing a mask. “Mrs. Ward,” Freda began, “whether or not you discipline him is inconsequential now. Theo and |
were incompatible.”
“That's not true. Don’t give up so easily,” Zandra implored. “I want no one but you as my daughter-in-law.”
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAfter Theo left home, tranquility had enveloped Zandra. Contemplating Theo’s potential reunion with Elyse,
Zandra pondered the Owen family’s response. Despite Jayden’s diminished influence, he still bore the Owen
name. Theo's actions would sting the Owen family’s pride. Regardless of Elyse’s standing within the Owen
family, Theo's actions would sow discord. Though the Ward family held sway, they paled in comparison to the
Owens. Zandra hesitated to jeopardize the Ward family’s reputation over Elyse. Thus, the alliance between the
Jimenez and Ward families must proceed unhindered.
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Freda remained unaware of Zandra’s deep contemplation. She merely presumed Zandra harbored genuine
affection for her. Hence, she remarked, “Mrs. Ward, Theo's resolve is unshakable.”
Urgently, Zandra countered, “Freda, don’t lose hope. My son’s endeavors will falter. Elyse assuredshe'd
renounce Theo and remain loyal to Jayden. Moreover, she’s bound in marriage. How could she abandon Jayden
for Theo?” With a note of helplessness, she continued, “My son bears the blame. His emotions cloud his
judgment. He'll realize his error once Elyse rebuffs him. You're his best option.”
Freda found herself swayed by Zandra’s persuasion. Freda hesitated to relent too readily. And she couldn't easily
forgive Theo's transgressions. “Mrs. Ward,” Freda began, “Theo's actions deeply wounded me. | must mull over
your words carefully. This concerns my future. | cannot rush into a decision.”
“It’s prudent to take your time,” Zandra reassured her. “But reconsider, Freda. Theo is emotional and persistent.
If his relationship with Elyse seems to be going nowhere, wouldn't it be a positive turn if he directed his feelings
towards you?”
Freda found herself swayed by Zandra’s words. Theo possessed striking looks and cfrom a respectable
family lineage. Observing his interactions with Elyse, Freda gleaned that he prized emotions and accountability.
Contemplating the prospect of marrying him and earning his affection, Freda envisioned a promising union.
Though tempted by the prospect of a favorable match, Freda remained resolute. “I comprehend your point, Mrs.
Ward. Yet Theo's sincerity will determine my stance.”
Perceiving Freda’s hesitation, Zandra expressed satisfaction. “Fear not. With you by his side, he'll realize your
worth.”
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With Freda’s decision unchanged, Zandra felt reassured regarding the marriage alliance. Freda resolved to
ascertain Elyse’s sentiments. If Elyse harbored hopes for Theo, would she succumb to his pursuit? Freda’s sole
recourse lay in ensuring Elyse’s heart remained unmoved by Theo's affections. When Theo faced rejection from
Elyse, Freda willingly offered solace and affection.
Meanwhile, Elyse wandered the bustling streets seeking solace in vain. Ignoring Jayden’s incessant calls, her
mind spiraled into chaos. Avoiding Jayden at all costs, she grappled with his persistent hold over her. As she
reached an intersection, a car halted beside her, its occupants Jayden’s loyal guards urging her homeward.
“Mrs. Owen, please chwith us. Mr. Owen is waiting for you.”
“I refuse,” Elyse retorted icily, poised to flee. After uttering those words, she pivoted, ready to make her escape.
Jayden’s directives commanded the bodyguards’ actions. While they typically heeded Elyse’s wishes, in conflict
with Jayden, their allegiance lay with him. In no time, Elyse found herself coerced into the car.
Seated within, she gazed at the passing scenery, her resentment simmering. Upon reaching home, she
encountered Jayden’s wrathful stare in the study. Forced, she mustered a smile. His lingering anger puzzled her.
What warranted his ire?