Alyssa slowly narrowed her eyes at Jasper with a look that could cut through steel. He appeared a bit flustered under her intense scrutiny.
She didnât mince words as she remarked, âThatâs disgustingly corny, even if you think it isnât.â
He stammered, âI just⦠want to be closer to you.â
Perplexed by her sudden anger, he realized he was utterly clueless when it came to comforting women.
As a company president known for his decisiveness in business and eloquence at global summits, he now felt utterly helpless before the woman he loved.
âPlease, donât call me Lyse, like how you called her âLia.â It only makes you associate me with her, and thatâs a grave insult.â
She fixed a piercing look on him.
In response, he pursed his lips, feeling his throat catch.
The pain he had inflicted on her had never truly lessened. She remained as hurt as the day they divorced.
Every time he evoked their past, she would latch onto it and dwell on the hurt.
Never had she considered forgiving him. In other words, she had reminded herself never to forget the humiliating past. There could be no future for their relationship if she stubbornly clung to the past.
âLyse, this has nothing to do with Liana or anyone else. I just-â he began to explain himself.
âEnough,â she cut him off coldly and opened the door. âDonât read too much into this. I allowed you in here because I know you well. Youâll never leave Roseâs studio today without achieving your goal, and I donât want to trouble Rose.â
His face darkened as he stared at her lonely figure.
She had only let him into the studio because she was pressed for time. She was busy with hotel business during the day and could only work on Lylaâs dress at Roseâs studio in the evening.
She picked up an exquisite crystal hair clip from the table. Tossing her hair coolly, she fashioned her hair into a bun.
His tender gaze remained fixed on her, and his fingers moved unconsciously. He had an irresistible urge to touch her thick, dark, and luscious hair.
They had once shared a bed as newlyweds. Back then, Alyssa always tossed and turned in her sleep, and Jasper was relieved and grateful. He tried to suppress his joy but failed. He hurried after Alyssa.
In the background, Xavier wore a broad, mischievous grin, thoroughly enjoying the sight of Jasperâs humility before Alyssa.
With no way to prevent Jasper from entering, Rose redirected her ire toward Xavier. She shot him a fierce glare and hissed, âYou wait out there. Jasper Beckettâs staff is not permitted inside!â
Jasper caught up to Alyssa as fast as he could. Despite that, she did not once turn around to look at him.
He didnât manage to get her attention even once.
Nonetheless, it was a significant step forward that she let him stay. He clung to this glimmer of hope, fully committed to winning her heart.
As they approached the studioâs entrance, Alyssa suddenly stopped without facing him. He began, âLyse, I âWhen have I allowed you to address me as âLyseâ?â