Chapter 116:
Jeffry, on the other hand, was far more straightforward. Without hesitation, he lifted a hand, signaling the servants to gather Elyse’s possessions and transfer them to the house next door.
Drained from her emotional outburst, Jolie pressed her forehead into her palm, refusing to acknowledge Elyse’s presence. Alexander took note of her reluctance and, without a second thought, scooped her up and carried her upstairs.
Only Elyse, Jeffry, and Elena remained in the living room.
Elyse stood frozen, struggling to find the right words. This time, she had been reckless, assuming Ruby wouldn’t dare turn against her. She never imagined Ruby would betray her so swiftly after uncovering Elena’s true background. Panic had clouded her judgment as she watched Elena’s designs gain massive popularity in Leopardex, making her increasingly uneasy. That was how Elena had managed to outmaneuver her.
Elyse didn’t believe she had made a mistake—her only regret was failing to be discreet, allowing Elena to gather solid proof against her.
Ailie twisted her fingers nervously, opening her mouth as if to speak, but recalling the steely expressions on Alexander’s and Jeffry’s faces made her think better of it. With a sigh, she went to pack Elyse’s belongings.
Ailie felt Alexander and Jolie were being too severe. Elyse was still young—errors were inevitable. How could they be so ruthless as to cast her out like this? Ailie couldn’t help but pity Elyse. Elyse had always been sweet and well-mannered, while Elena remained distant and aloof, rarely cracking a smile. In comparison, Elyse seemed far more pleasant. But ultimately, Elyse wasn’t Alexander and Jolie’s daughter.
Ailie handed over the packed luggage. “Elyse, everything is ready.”
Elyse scanned the bags, quickly noticing that her valuables from the safe hadn’t been packed. “Thank you, Ailie. There are still a few things left—I’ll get them myself later.”
Ailie shook her head, inwardly lamenting the unfairness of it all. Elyse always treated the household staff with kindness, yet someone so considerate was being forced to leave.
Jeffry clicked his tongue impatiently. “When you’re done, leave.”
Elyse’s temper flared. No matter how much effort she put into gaining Jeffry’s approval, he continued to despise her. Yet, the moment Elena reappeared, he warmed up to her instantly.
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Elyse demanded, “Jeffry, why are you treating me this coldly? I’ve always seen you as an elder brother, but you’ve been aloof. However, you warmed up to Elena the moment she returned to the Harpers. Is this difference in your demeanor just because I’m not your sister?”
Elyse appeared hurt. She was upset, yes—but she had deliberately put on that aggrieved expression to garner his sympathy. She had long known that Jeffry disliked her, and truthfully, she didn’t hold any real affection for him either. Still, since she had to go, she wanted to leave a door open for the future. She bet the Harper family would beg her to return one day.
Jeffry’s brows furrowed as he regarded Elyse like she had lost her mind. Had she conveniently forgotten how, as a child, she had coveted Louis’s room, deliberately provoking him before falsely accusing him of mistreatment? Jolie, believing her, had forced Louis to hand over his room. Worse, Elyse had played the obedient role before Jolie yet grumbled to Samira behind closed doors. And now Elyse expected him to be fond of her?
