Bound Hearts: My Vows to My Disabled Spouse

Chapter 191 The Gauntlet Has Been Thrown

The room fell into a heavy silence, broken only by the sound of everyone's breathing. No one dared to breathe heavily. They were puzzled by Vicky's actions-why she had slapped Elyse and why Elyse had found the courage to slap back.

Vicky rubbed her reddened, swollen cheek. The reason for her singular focus on Elyse was unknown to the others. They didn't realize that she saw Elyse as her biggest threat. Earlier that afternoon, Vicky had been discussing her future career plans and upcoming international competitions with Abram in the office. Yet abruptly, Abram had shifted the conversation to Elyse.

"In fact, during the concertmaster selection, I had a feeling that Cody was considering taking

Elyse as his apprentice," he had said. "He watched her play the violin very intently. Fortunately, he ended up not choosing anyone. I was relieved. Cody didn't choose you or Elyse. So you didn't lose."

Vicky's internal reaction to Abram's words remained a mystery to everyone but her.

She harbored an inexplicable resentment that she couldn't let go of "Do you think Elyse is better

than me, Mr. Ellsworth?" she had asked Abram directly, desperate for an answer.

Abram looked at her with a complex expression, hinting at thoughts she couldn't decipher. "No

one is perfect. She possesses some talents you don't have. You must heed Cody's advice, or else

Elyse might surpass you."

a sense of urgency in Vicky, fueling her fear and disdain

when Rebekah suggested that Elyse was scheming against her, her < immediate response

her heart. She worried that Elyse might not only surpass her but could rally others

to strike first, hoping to deter Elyse from any thoughts of defeating her. However, Elyse retaliated with two slaps of her own.

"You dared to strike. Why shouldn't I? You came here just to slap me, to

000005s.org for uninterrupted enjoyment. The next chapter is just

through your intentions? It's quite clear, Vicky. You're scared

threaten your position. You lost

a brief pause, she flashed a challenging smile. "I

person. You've been unopposed for so long, your arrogance grew unchecked. But

mind was laid bare, her cheeks burning

cheek, Elyse's resolve hardened, her determined gaze unsettling Vicky

her fear at

vulnerability-it was a fate

to fight this out to the bitter end?" she hissed with a malicious

that, she turned and stormed out,

a smirk, though it quickly faded under the scrutiny

"Vicky has left. Aren't you going