Chapter 161: This isn’t the end for me.
Theodore felt a deep sense of helplessness, which only fueled his irritation. Despite all his power and wealth, he couldn’t stop Ivy’s schemes against Bella. The realization that Bella had sacrificed her dream to save the project cut through him like a knife.
"What about you?" he asked with concern. "This was your dream. How could you just let it go?"
Bella’s eyes shone with quiet confidence. "There will be other opportunities. This isn’t the end for me. Besides, I can sell my designs online."
Her unwavering optimism touched Theodore deeply. He pulled her into his arms, holding her close as if trying to shield her from all the world’s cruelty.
"I’ll work hard," she promised, her voice muffled against his chest, "and I’ll make my own brand."
Theodore gently stroked her hair, his heart swelling with admiration and love. "I know you will," he murmured. "With that determination, you’ll achieve anything you set your mind to."
As they stood there, wrapped in each other’s arms, Theodore vowed to support Bella in every possible way and to make those who had wronged her pay dearly.
"You are no longer mad at me, right?" She batted her eyelashes innocently, hoping to charm him.
Theodore chuckled and cupped her face. "No, I can’t stay mad at you for long." His thumbs brushed against her cheeks as he gazed into her blue eyes, his expression a mixture of affection and desire.
Bella’s breath caught in her throat as she met his intense gaze. Her cheeks flushed a deep pink, and she tried to look away, but he wouldn’t let her. He leaned in slowly, his lips brushing against hers in a gentle kiss that quickly deepened into something more passionate.