?Chapter 394:


    She remembered Wesley’s well-known meticulous nature—he valued cleanliness above most things. Elyse had once identally brushed against his suit, prompting him to discard it without hesitation. This handkerchief could easily meet the same fate.


    Elena shrugged off the concern. After all, Wesley had no shortage of wealth to rece it.


    Wesley then offered her a crystal-clear ss of water with a nonchnt gesture. Elena epted gracefully, their fingers briefly brushing as she took delicate sips.


    Recalling the true purpose of her visit, Elena ventured, “Thank you for your kindness yesterday.”


    Wesley dismissed her gratitude with a casual flick of his hand. “Think nothing of it.” His face remained stoic, revealing nothing.


    Elena reached into her coat and pulled out a small, elegantly wrapped box. She ced it beside the handkerchief and revealed its contents. “I brought you a thank-you gift.”


    Wesley caught sight of the dietary supplement inside and noted its rarity and the implied value of her gesture. Despite this, he maintained a cold demeanor, his jaw tightening and presencemanding even in silence.


    A hush fell over the room, broken only by the heavy heat wafting in from outside, intensifying the charged atmosphere.


    Elena’s eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of concern crossing her face. Could he be displeased with the gift? The dietary supplement, designed to enhance well-being, was a treasure beyond social status. Illness did not discriminate, and this gift was a shield against such indiscriminate fate. What then could diminish Wesley’s appreciation for her thoughtful offering?


    Her mind raced with confusion, her frown deepening as she searched for understanding in Wesley’s enigmatic response.


    After a moment, Wesley finally raised his head. Locking eyes with Elena, his expression remained rigid as he said, “Your generosity knows no bounds.”


    “Are you unhappy with it?” Elena asked directly.


    Wesley’s features stayed tense, his piercing gaze fixed on her, yet he remained silent. Elena’s forehead creased slightly, her face showing confusion and concern rather than irritation. She truly could not fathom why he seemed so troubled. A soft sigh seemed to hang between them.


    Lowering his voice, Wesley said, “You said I was your friend.”


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    Elena nodded. She remembered his im that he never formed friendships.


    Wesley did not take the dietary supplement. “It wasn’t a big deal. No need to thank me.” Between them, formalities felt unnecessary. He had helped her once, and she had offered a supplement in return. It was polite, yet it also marked a clear distance—neither owed the other anything.


    Elena gently shook her head, unwavering. “I dislike being in debt. You helped me, and this is my way of showing gratitude. If you refuse the dietary supplement, perhaps I could offer you something else.” She had heard whispers of exotic gemstones appearing at a secret auction and wondered if she might acquire a few for him.


    As she pondered which stones Wesley might appreciate, his voice unexpectedly broke her reverie. “I have everything I need.”


    Elena’s sharp gaze met Wesley’s, puzzled by his cryptic words. He continued, “There’s a social event this evening, and I need apanion. Would you care to join me?”


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