Chapter 185: Another surprise
Bella’s heart clenched at his urgent tone. This reaction was far more intense than she had anticipated. "No..." She quickly placed a hand on his chest, halting his attempts to pull her away. "I don’t need to go to the hospital. I’m absolutely fine."
But Theodore was not easily swayed. "Just now you said you have a stomachache." His brow furrowed with worry and confusion.
"It’s a minor issue," Bella assured him. "I am fine. Really."
She was scared of being hospitalized. The memories of countless days spent in sterile, cold rooms during her mother’s illness haunted her. The mere thought of the sharp scent of disinfectants churned her stomach. If she stepped foot inside a hospital, the anxiety would only make her feel worse.
"I just want to go home," she said hurriedly before he could insist further.
"Are you sure you are fine?" he asked skeptically.
"Yes, yes... Let’s get out of here," Bella insisted, linking her arm with his, eager to escape the restaurant and the concern in his eyes.
"Alright," he relented, his expression softening. "But please, let me know if you feel any discomfort."
"I will." Bella gave him a reassuring smile. "Let’s go home and enjoy the rest of our evening."
As they settled into the car, Bella relaxed in the familiar seat. The warm presence of Theodore beside her brought a sense of calm. A small smile tugged at her lips, the earlier discomfort dissipating as if it had never been there.