Chapter 57: The betrayal?
"Bella, please don’t be sad." Joe’s voice reached her from a distance, laced with concern. "Maybe it’s not what we are thinking. They may be just friends."
Bridget nodded in agreement, trying to offer some reassurance. "Yes, Bella, don’t overthink it. He is a big shot. He has many clients and friends. Maybe she is one of them."
Bella tried to take comfort in their words, but the sight of Theodore holding hands and sharing a warm moment with another woman was too much. Her mind raced with questions and doubts. She had believed in his feelings for her, but now she felt a pang of betrayal.
As Bella struggled with her emotions, Joe and Bridget exchanged worried glances, determined to lift her spirits.
Bridget leaned closer, her voice soft and soothing. "Let’s not jump to conclusions, Bella. We’ll talk to Theodore and find out what’s really going on. Until then, let’s try to enjoy our evening."
Joe nodded, adding, "We’ll get through this together. You’re not alone."
Bella felt a suffocating pressure constricting her chest. She knew Willow had only agreed to work with Brico because of Theodore. They were probably close friends, that much was undeniable. But the scene she witnessed told a different story. It seemed like their connection was deeper than just friendship.
The weight of insecurity settled on her like a lead cloak. Compared to Willow, she was nothing. The terror of Theodore being drawn to Willow, of her own fragile happiness being ripped away, intensified the ache in her heart.
Unable to bear it any longer, she bolted upright. "I can’t stay here," the words tumbled out with choked emotion.
Joe and Bridget reacted instantly, concern etched on their faces. "Bella!" they called out in unison.
Bella came to a halt, forcing a smile that felt brittle and unconvincing. Blinking back the tears that threatened to spill, she turned towards them. "Don’t worry about me, guys. Everything’s fine, really. We’re here to celebrate, right? How about we head to the bar? Drinks on me!"
Bridget and Joe exchanged a puzzled glance. The forced cheer in Bella’s voice and the tremor in her smile betrayed her pain.