Chapter 170: The priority
Theodore was unmoved. His voice was firm, almost cold, as he replied, "Right now, Bella’s safety is paramount. That crazy woman, Ivy, is out there. She could hurt Bella."
Skyler, still not fully grasping the shift in Theodore’s priorities, tried to reason with him. ’But she is at the office, surrounded by her colleagues. Ivy wouldn’t dare go there. If you’re concerned, have Hugo arrange for a guard to protect her. There is no need to postpone the meeting for something so trivial."
Theodore’s response was immediate and explosive. "Bella is not a trivial matter!" he roared, his eyes flashing with a dangerous intensity. The force of his words sent a shockwave through the room, and before Skyler could say another word, Theodore was already on his feet, storming out of the office with a determined stride.
Skyler stood frozen in place, his mouth agape as he watched Theodore’s retreating form. "I can’t believe he is willing to risk millions of dollars for a woman," he muttered, still reeling from the shock. "When did he change so much?"
The realization that Theodore’s priorities had shifted so dramatically left Skyler shaken, his mind struggling to reconcile the driven, business-focused man he knew with the one who had just walked out, ready to put everything on the line for Bella.
Theodore tried calling Bella, but she still wasn’t answering. Concern gnawed at him, wondering what could be keeping her so busy. He considered calling Willow to check in on her, but before he could dial the number, Tristan hurried over, his expression urgent.
"Sir, Brico is celebrating the successful launch of their products tonight," Tristan reported, slightly out of breath. "Everyone seems busy preparing for the party."
Theodore immediately understood why Bella wasn’t picking up his calls. "Alright, let’s go there," he said decisively.
Tristan blinked in surprise. "Erm...you want to attend the party?" he asked, clearly baffled. They hadn’t received an invitation, and the idea of just showing up felt awkward. Wouldn’t it be embarrassing to crash the event? He wanted to voice his concerns, but the words stuck in his throat.
Theodore’s sharp gaze landed on him, one eyebrow arching. "Do you have a problem with that?"