Chapter 6 6
Theo ignored Cecilia. Whenever he mentioned her in front of me, he always did so with an air of indifference, devoid of any emotion.
He stepped up to the podium to give a speech, every word and action exuding maturity and charm. He was undeniably dazzling.
Then Saul made a shocking announcement.
He announced that he was adopting me as his goddaughter and that Theo and Cecilia were engaged.
Cecilia shot me a provocative smile. She stood to Saul’s right, with Theo on his other side, looking very much like a family.
In an instant, countless eyes were on me.
The more assertive and active Theo had been in the public eye over the past three months, the more intense the media’s curiosity about me had become.
Some said Theo was loyal and righteous, while others mocked that I would be abandoned sooner or later.
Now, with Saul’s announcement, it was as if I was put under intense scrutiny.
Theo’s gaze wavered between Cecilia and me.
Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, he walked towards me.
He shook off Cecilia’s hand that was holding his, his eyes still held a gentle determination, more like an unwavering resolve.
He didn’t save face for his father, nor did he agree to the engagement for the sake of the guests‘ dignity.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I apologize, my father was just joking. This is my girlfriend–Thea.”
If I hadn’t heard that recording, I might have thought I was the happiest person in the world.
But now, that recording had become a chasm between us.
At this moment, I only felt an emptiness, a sense of absurdity, and desolation.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Cecilia’s face turn pale with shame and anger, but I didn’t feel happy.
She didn’t win, but neither did I.
The crowd murmured and gossiped.
“So, this is the girlfriend who has stood by Theo for three years?”
“Theo is truly a deeply affectionate and responsible man.”
“This woman is so lucky! How did she end up with such a devoted and faithful man like Theo? I’m so envious!”
Ignoring Saul’s angry rebukes, Theo pushed me out of the venue and back to our apartment.
Away from the noisy and bustling event, we returned to our shared apartment.
Theo carried me into the bedroom.
He softly explained Saul’s words to me, and once again, firmly expressed his feelings for me.
I nestled in his arms, crying silently.
Theo was heartbroken. He tenderly cupped my face, kissing my tears away one by one.
I felt like a delicate porcelain doll in his hands, afraid of being dropped.
Everyone has their own selfish desires. Theo wasn’t a saint. Perhaps… I could give us another chance.
My hand slowly moved to his waist, our breaths becoming heavier and more synchronized.
But at the last moment, he gently stopped my hand.
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