Reflecting for a moment, he added, “Regarding that apartment, I've been unsure about what to do with it for some time. I think it might be best to sell it, since you're not likely to go there again."

Elva remained silent.

Gently holding her hair, Luis spoke softly. “Elva, let's start anew. Give me a chance to show you we can be truly happy together. You shouldn't settle for just a lifetime commitment, right?"

Elva responded quietly, “It doesn't necessarily have to be just once in a lifetime thing."

Luis looked at her lovingly, his affection palpable.

Although his feelings for her had developed unexpectedly, he now deeply cared for her and didn't want to lose her.

Elva pondered for a moment before agreeing.

She then warmly cautioned him, “Luis, if you upset me again, I won't forgive you."

His heart softened at her words, understanding her forgiveness and her personality deeper.

He kissed her forehead, whispering, "I have to go to that meeting. See you tonight.”

Elva playfully urged him to leave quickly.

As Luis departed in high spirits, believing that love invigorated the soul, Elva leaned against the headboard in reflection.

Was she too quick to forgive?

Yet, Luis' words resonated with her: she did not desire a marriage of convenience. Acknowledging that marrying for damage control would be self-deception, she realized her willingness to marry Luis stemmed from genuine affection, not societal expectations.

Lost in thought, she felt tears welling up, moved by her own realizations.

As evening approached, Elva opted not to stay at home as promised.

Instead, she slipped into a fresh outfit and drove her red sports car to the Mendez Group headquarters. Her striking car garnered much attention right outside the building, though Elva paid no mind to the onlookers.

Unexpectedly, she encountered Kyler, her former boyfriend from a setup date.

Their relationship had ended due to Luis' interference.

Elva intended to greet Kyler, but before she could roll down her window, she caught Cassidy's distressed plea. "Kyler, let me go!"