?Chapter 781:


    Elena had already noticed the man apanying Aria and had no interest in making his acquaintance.


    Trent put on a smile he thought was charming and offered his hand. “You must be Elena. My aunt said we’d be meeting today. I’m Trent Harvey.”


    With his other hand casually in his pocket, he gave a flirtatious wink.


    Elena gave him a quick once-over, noting his greasy skin, tired eyes, and dark, unhealthy-looking lips—clear signs of too many nights spent in clubs, mixed with heavy smoking and drinking. She recognized these as indicators of a man headed for an early decline. She gave no response and ignored his extended hand.


    Noticing her cool demeanor, Trent silently used her of putting on airs, but his smile didn’t waver. “Let’s go out for dinner tonight. Where would you like to eat?”


    Elena was blunt. “There’s no need to make ns. I won’t have dinner with you, nor will I be your date. I’m simply not interested.”


    After making her position clear, she walked away. As she left, her eyesnded on a familiar ck car parked nearby.


    Seated inside was Wesley, his face stern and intense, exuding an aura that was anything but weing.


    From inside the car, the group had just witnessed everything unfold. “Looks like someone’s got their eye on your girl, Wesley,” Malcolm teased as he observed the interaction outside.


    The group’s observations were unanimous. That man’s interest in Elena was undeniable. This was amon understanding among men—they could tell when another man was interested. They had only stopped for a meal after their golf game, not expecting to stumble upon such a scene.


    The atmosphere in the car turned colder after Malcolm’sment. Wesley’s face darkened as he looked away. “Are you asking for trouble?” he asked, his tone sharp.


    Sensing the shift, Malcolm quickly raised his hands in a calming gesture. “Easy, man. I’m just watching your back. You’ve been chasing Elena for ages without any sign of sess. Nomitment, nothing. Elena is stunning, and you’re not the only one who’s noticed. You’d better step up before someone else does.” Malcolm’s words came from a ce of concern.


    Since Wesley was known for his sharp business acumen, Malcolm expected the same decisiveness in his personal life. Yet, Wesley’s romantic pursuits seemed surprisingly stagnant.


    Find what’s next on g al no ve ls


    Wesley shifted ufortably, his expression closed off and cold.


    The tension was palpable, making Felix anxious as he watched. Silently, Wesley pulled out a pack of cigarettes and lit one. Malcolm didn’t hesitate to take one for himself, trying to lighten the mood. He used his lighter for Wesley’s cigarette and then for his own.


    “You really should take my advice, Wesley. Don’t let pride get in the way with women,” Malcolm said, exhaling a stream of smoke. “You’ve got to pursue what you want aggressively. Elena’s no easy catch. If you don’t step up, you’ll lose her.”


    Wesley’s frown deepened, his eyes shadowed with thought. Didn’t Elena appreciate his pictures? But earlier, she seemed captivated by his looks. That man was clearly out of his league, yet she had nced his way more than once.


    Inhaling deeply from his cigarette, Wesley battled his irritation. Here was Malcolm, who had never been involved with anyone and was still untouched, offering Wesley romantic advice.


    “Do you know what you should do next?” Malcolm continued. “You need to show strength. Corner her, kiss her breathless, and demand shemit to you.”


    The car fell silent for a long moment after Malcolm’s words. Then Wesley said sharply, “Leave the car.”


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