Chapter 113: The gnawing doubts
Theodore arrived at the mansion to find Malcolm seated at the breakfast table. A wave of relief washed over him, instantly erasing the lines of tension etched into his face.
"Grandpa!" he exclaimed, hurrying to embrace the older man. "You scared me to death last night."
Malcolm’s heart melted at the sight of his grandson, his emotions overwhelming him. The tightness in his chest from the previous night had made him fear it was his last day.
Seeing Theodore again, emotions swirled wildly within him. However, he pretended to be upset, not returning the hug. Though no longer angry with Theodore, he couldn’t agree with his decision to keep Bella with him.
"I am still strong," Malcolm said gruffly. "I won’t die so easily and let you do whatever you please."
Theodore chuckled at his grandfather’s scolding. "Yes, yes... you are still strong. And I want to see you like this – always." His expression then turned serious. "I need to talk to you."
"Me too."
Before they could continue, Gina’s nasal voice cut through the air. "Theo!"
Theodore’s face contorted in disgust as he saw her descending the stairs, Claudia trailing behind her. The memory of the previous night’s events flashed through his mind. Claudia had been so desperate to marry him to Gina that she had not hesitated to drug him.
A bitter taste filled his mouth. He knew he couldn’t stay in the same room with them for long.
"You seemed sick last night," Gina said with a concerned look on her face. "How are you feeling now?"
A bitter scoff escaped Theodore’s lips as he scanned the faces of Gina and Claudia. "Are you disappointed to see me alright?" His tone was dripping with sarcasm.