Chapter 47: The critical condition
"When I finally discovered that it was you, I was ecstatic," Theodore revealed, brimming with excitement. "I married my angel, the woman I’d loved before I even knew her."
However, Bella sulked, feigning upset. "You cheated on your angel," she said, a hint of theatrical grievance in her tone. With a swift motion, she slipped her hands free from his grasp. "You misunderstood her and gave up on her."
Theodore frowned, bewildered by her sudden shift. "But you are my angel," he insisted, gesturing vaguely. "I am being honest with you—telling you everything without keeping a secret. Shouldn’t you appreciate it?"
Bella said nothing. He was right, she couldn’t deny that. Theodore could have spun a web of convenient lies, a story that painted him in a heroic light, and she wouldn’t have questioned it. Yet, he’d chosen brutal honesty, laying everything bare. Still, her face remained a mask of solemnity, a test to gauge the depths of his devotion, the lengths he’d go to win her over.
Her silence, however, was a torment. Theodore shifted, growing restless. "Bella." He grabbed her shoulders, his eyes searching hers. "Let’s not dwell on it, shall we? This is a cause for celebration, not sulking. Come on, smile!"
But Bella held firm, waiting to see what his next move would be. The anticipation hung heavy between them.
Theodore’s brow furrowed as he looked deeply into her eyes, searching for any sign of softening. When none came, he let out a frustrated sigh. Desperation laced his voice as he spoke, "Alright, I’ll make it up to you. Tell me, what should I do to get your forgiveness?" he asked. "I’ll do anything you say."
That was it. This was the moment she had been waiting for. Bella’s lips twitched slightly, but she kept her stern demeanor. She ran her mind, wondering what she should demand.
Theodore’s restlessness grew, and he racked his brain for ideas. "How about a vacation? Anywhere you want to go. Or maybe I can get you something special—a gift, a surprise?"
Still, Bella remained silent. Theodore’s anxiety hit a peak. "Please, Bella," he pleaded, taking her hand in his. "I can’t stand the thought of you being upset with me. I’ll do anything to make you happy."
Bella’s resolve wavered as she looked down at him, his earnestness touching her heart. She was about to say something when Theodore suggested, "How about we hold a grand wedding?" His lips stretched from ear to ear, anticipation brimming in his eyes.
Bella considered this. The wedding sounded not bad. The image of a lavish ceremony, the envy in the eyes of others, was undeniably tempting. Yet, a sliver of apprehension snaked through her.