?Chapter 688:


    Concerned about Javier’s rising temper, Matias suggested they leave the group chat. Out of sight, out of mind, after all.


    “Don’t waste your breath on them,” Matias advised. “While we know the truth about Elena, they don’t see it. It’s pointless to argue. Let’s focus on informing your family and finding a way to address this together.”


    Javier nodded resolutely. “Absolutely! We need to take action, not just stand by!”


    Just as Javier regained someposure, he bumped into Elyse.


    Spotting him, Elyse quickly taunted, “Rushing somewhere, Javier? Surely you’ve seen those scandalous pictures? It’s quite embarrassing for the Harper family. You don’t intend to still defend Elena after such a disgrace, do you?”


    “From top to bottom, you’re the one without shame!” Javier shot back fiercely, sparing no feelings.


    A flicker of irritation crossed Elyse’s face as she realized Javier still sided with Elena. She had hoped to give him the chance to distance himself from Elena, but he was too stubborn. Since he chose to remain Elena’s defender, so be it.


    With her arms crossed and a tone of finality, Elyse said, “The whole town of the is talking. Elena Harper was caught shamelessly with a stranger in a hotel room. Her explicit photos are everywhere. Denying it won’t change what everyone already knows.”


    What Elyse didn’t admit was that she had orchestrated those doctored photos, determined to ruin Elena’s reputation beyond repair. Surely, no one in the’s elite circles would now consider marrying Elena.


    Smirking at her own cunning, Elyse contemted her future as Keith’s wife, connected to a high-ranking family, while Elena would be left undesirable—forever stained by these supposed actions. The Harper family would surely regret ever casting her out!


    Elyse taunted, “Javier, you must be incredibly naive to defend Elena, who tarnishes our family’s reputation. Think for once. Stop speaking for that rude tramp.”


    Matias could no longer stay silent as her words grew harsher.


    “That’s crossing the line, Elyse,” Matias interjected with a scowl.


    “Is it really too harsh?” Elyse retorted sharply. “She embarrasses herself with strangers, and I shouldn’t mention it?”


    Elyse shifted her attention to Matias, noticing he had grown significantly taller—easily over six feet now.


    Every chapter lives on g a lno vels ;m


    Matias had been a constant presence at the Harper estate since he and Javier were childhood friends, so Elyse had often seen him around. She recalled how Matias used to quietly offer her drinks and snacks, seemingly admiring her from afar but never daring to speak up.


    Previously, her affections had been reserved for Wesley, leaving no room for others. But with her chances with Wesley gone, she chose to be with Keith instead. Although Keith seemed a good catch because of his well-ced father, he didn’tpare to Wesley or even Matias in looks or physique.


    Elyse felt a surge of superiority, convinced of Matias’s supposed longstanding admiration. A mere nod from her would likely sway him. Tired of constantly trying to please Keith, she saw turning her attention to Matias, a more impressionable man, as a refreshing change. With these thoughts, Elyse gave Matias a soft smile. “It’s been a while, Matias. You’ve really grown—and more handsome too.”


    Javier and Matias froze at Elyse’s sudden change of tone. Their eyes met, each equally baffled. Why was she suddenly being so charming toward Matias?


    Caught off guard, Matias stammered, “Uh, have I?”


    Elyse moved closer, her voice soft and gentle. “You look even better up close. Why don’t you greet me when you see me? It’s a bit disappointing.”


    Matias was speechless. Had they ever been close? His memories of her were limited to brief greetings during his visits with Javier, nothing more. Why then did Elyse act as if there was a deeper connection?


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