Bound Hearts: My Vows to My Disabled Spouse

Chapter 231

Experience the Concertmaster's Sensation

Theo was in the midst of overtime work at the pany when Elyse's call came through. Engrossed in reading an important document, he hesitated to answer, not wanting to be interrupted by the phone.

Glancing at the caller ID nonchalantly, his anticipation heightened upon seeing it was

Elyse.

What could she possibly want? Theo's pulse quickened as he picked up his phone. Deliberately allowing it to ring thrice, he finally pressed the answer button slowly.

"Why are you calling?" His tone betrayed no emotion.

Meanwhile, Elyse examined the ruby necklace in her hand and inquired casually, "I received a birthday gift. Did you give it to me?"

Theo was on the verge of confessing that it was indeed from him.

Having purchased the ruby necklace at an auction, he had long intended to present it to her. Yet, he harbored doubts about her acceptance, hence the delay.

Suddenly, it dawned on Theo that she hadn't called to express gratitude but to ascertain whether it was his gift.

Knowing Elyse's disposition, he speculated that if she learned it was from him, she might return it. He responded, "I don't know anything about a birthday gift. You must have mistaken."

Elyse was taken aback. Theo denied any involvement in the gift.

As she pondered the possibility further, she heard Theo's derisive tone. "Why would I give you a birthday gift? Don't delude yourself."

Dispelling her doubts, she replied, "You're right. I must have been mistaken. My apologies for

bothering you, Mr. Ward. I gotta go."

With that, she promptly ended the call.

He should have realized he had missed the opportunity to present the gift openly.

Reflecting on this, a self-deprecating smile tugged at his lips.

After concluding the call, Elyse placed her phone on the table, retrieved the ruby necklace once more, and inspected it closely.

Ultimately, she stowed the necklace away, indifferent to its sender.

The following day, she headed to the rehearsal room. With the tour mencing the next day,

they engaged in a brief rehearsal before proceeding to a concert hall.

Boarding the bus en route to the concert hall, the team's manager distributed their uniforms, each tailored for the uping performance.

"Wow, your dress is different from ours. It's a fishtail design. Absolutely stunning!"

"Vicky being the concertmaster explains the distinction in attire."

That's fantastic. I aspire to be a concertmaster someday," one of the girls exclaimed

Vicky admired the performance attire in her grasp. Upon hearing the girls' praises, she cast a scornful glance at them. "Do you honestly believe just anyone can bee the concertmaster?" Realizing her blunder, the girl who spoke awkwardly lowered her head, avoiding Vicky's gaze. Vicky observed the girl closely. The girl possessed only average talent and would never rival her skill.

Vicky wasn't one to coddle inpetence. With a hint of sarcasm, she remarked, "If you're not up to par, then practice diligently Actions speak louder than words."

Elyse witnessed the exchange but remained silent. However, Vicky noticed her presence. Sneering at Elyse, Vicky taunted, "You're no different from her. Spare yourself the illusion. You'll never wear this dress."

Amused, Elyse retorted, "You make it sound like you'll surpass me for the rest of your life." Proudly displaying the dress in her hand, Vicky replied, "I did this time, didn't 12"

Elyse's gaze sharpened as the manager approached. Loudly, she manded, "Put away your attire. Rehearsal is about to mence."

The room buzzed with activity as everyone prepared. Elyse took her place among the others, stealing a glance at Vicky, who stood proudly as the concertmaster, her posture exuding arrogance.

As the rehearsal was set to begin, Vicky suddenly sneezed.

Concerned, the manager advised, "Layer up. The air conditioning is being tested today. If you're underdressed, you'll catch a cold."

Ct

"No need. I'll be fine once we start moving," Vicky insisted, poised to begin the rehearsal The manager relented, allowing Vicky to proceed

After half a day of rehearsal, the orchestra was dismissed an hour early to ensure they were well- rested for the performance the following day.

Elyse lingered behind, being the last to leave. Standing alone on the dimly lit stage, she gazed

at the empty auditorium, a sense of tranquility washing over her.

As the lights began to dim, she seized the moment to experience what it felt like to be a concertmaster.

She stood resolute, playing the melody of "Viva La Vida".

Upon finishing, she was greeted by applause.

Following the sound, she spotted Cody, clad in a casual black suit, with a smile on his lips.