Reputation S Bloom
Chapter 14
Theo Standing before the bathroom vanity, Daphne took her time applying her hand cream, making sure she massaged in every last drop as she stared at herself in the mirror. Her stomach was in knots, and the fluttering inside her chest made her feel like she was losing her breath. She picked up her hairbrush and began to run it through her locks, her thoughts spiraling.Bra on or off, Daphne wondered, looking down at her pink gingham pajamas. It would be so uncomfortable to sleep with her bra on. But what if Theo woke up before her and she sat up and he noticed she didn't have a bra on?Daphne threw down her brush and took a seat on the edge of the bathtub. She began to chew on her bottom lip as she bounced her knees. She should have never agreed to come on this trip.The reality of sharing a room and a bed with Theo suddenly felt overwhelming. She replayed the evening's events in her mind, feeling nervous about the inevitable awkwardness of the situation. The idea of sleeping so close to him, on the same bed, made her heart race even more.Daphne glanced at the door, half-expecting Theo to knock and tell her it was time for bed. Her palms felt clammy, and she rubbed them together to ease the tension. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself, but the thoughts kept coming. What if she snored? What if she talked in her sleep? What if he noticed every little flaw she was so self-conscious about?Daphne stood up and paced the small bathroom, her mind a whirlwind of worry. This trip, meant to be a quick and easy weekend away, now felt like an emotional minefield. Daphne sighed deeply, wishing she could just relax and enjoy the beauty of Edenfield and the Harrison mansion.Finally, after spending an uncomfortable amount of time in the bathroom preparing, she resolved to go out and face the situation head-on. Daphne knew she couldn't hide in the bathroom forever. With one last glance in the mirror, she gave herself a little pep talk. "You can do this," she whispered. Taking a deep breath, she opened the bathroom door and stepped out. Theo looked up from where he was standing by the nightstand looking down at his phone. They both stilled, neither one saying a word. Daphne felt heat rise to her chest as her eyes raked over Theo's tall figure. He had changed into his pajamas too. The white cotton T-shirt hugged his broad shoulders and stretched across his chest, wrapping around his muscular arms. His hair was still damp from the shower he had taken earlier, and he stood barefoot, looking both out of place and completely different from his usual polished, business self.Theo cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "You all set?""Yes," Daphne replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She walked over to the bed, feeling acutely aware of every step she took. She could feel Theo's eyes on her, and it made her heart race even more.They both moved awkwardly around the room, trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy. Daphne fussed with the covers, smoothing them out unnecessarily, while Theo busied himself with adjusting the pillows. The silence between them grew too heavy while each of them tried to find something to say that wouldn't sound forced. After a few minutes when it became painfully obvious that they could no longer continue to make the bed, Daphne and Theo paused. They stared at the king size mattress as if it were a challenge they did not know how to tackle. Suddenly, Theo straightened up and cleared his throat. "I just remembered, I need to check some work emails," he said, his voice a bit too casual. "I should take care of that before bed.""Oh, sure," Daphne replied, seizing the opportunity to avoid the bed. "I'm not really sleepy yet either. I'm going to read for a bit.""Okay," Theo said, relief evident in his voice. He grabbed his phone and laptop before walking over to the writing desk in the room. Daphne watched him settle into the chair and begin typing away with exaggerated focus.After a few seconds, Daphne grabbed the book she had packed and moved to the window seat, her heart still pounding. She drew the curtains slightly and looked out at the night sky, trying to calm her racing thoughts. The room was filled with a strained silence, both of them keenly aware of the other's presence but pretending to be engrossed in their chosen distractions.The soft glow of the laptop screen illuminated Theo's face, and Daphne stole a glance at him, finding it hard not to admire the way he looked so different in this setting. She sighed, resting her head against the cool glass, her mind a whirlwind of emotions and unspoken words.The minutes ticked by, each one feeling longer than the last. Daphne's gaze wandered back to Theo, who seemed equally lost in thought despite his pretense of working. When he caught her gaze after a few minutes, she wondered if he felt the same nervousness, the same fluttering in his chest.Theo broke the silence with a playful grin. "You know, staring at the book won't magically turn the pages."Daphne blinked, then laughed softly. "I can't focus. I'm just a bit distracted.""By my dashing good looks?" Theo teased. Daphne rolled her eyes, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks. "Sure, let's go with that."Theo chuckled, leaning back in his chair and setting the laptop aside. "What are you reading? Or pretending to read?""You'll laugh," Daphne shook her head."I won't," Theo assured her. Daphne scrunched up her nose, unconvinced by his words. "Is it a romance novel?" Theo asked, tilting his head with curiosity. "No," Daphne shook her head. "Then what is it?" Daphne held up the book, the title barely visible in the dim light. "Alice in Wonderland." Theo's eyes widened in mock surprise. "Alice in Wonderland? Really?"Daphne's cheeks turned pink. "See? I knew you'd laugh.""I'm not laughing," Theo said, a grin spreading across his face. "I'm just... pleasantly surprised.""Pleasantly surprised?" Daphne raised an eyebrow, feeling a bit defensive."Yeah," Theo nodded. "It's a classic.""Why are you surprised by my choice?" Daphne asked, crossing her arms.Theo shrugged, still smiling. "I guess I expected something more contemporary. Alice in Wonderland just seems... timeless. I didn't peg you for a fan of the classics."Daphne softened a bit, her defensiveness melting away. "I love the whimsy and the imagination in it. It was a nice escape from reality growing up."Theo's smile widened. "I can see that. The idea of falling into a world where nothing makes sense but everything feels possible... it's kind of magical."Daphne looked at him, surprised by his genuine enthusiasm. "Really? I didn't take you for an Alice in Wonderland fan."Theo chuckled. "There's a lot you don't know about me yet. But I'm glad to see you appreciate the magic too."Daphne felt herself smile. "Maybe there's more to you than I thought.""Likewise," Theo returned the smile. He held her gaze for what seemed like forever before uttering his next words. "Read me a passage."Daphne looked at him, surprised. "You want me to read to you?""Why not? It might help you actually open the book." He said.Daphne hesitated, then flipped to the first page. Clearing her throat, she began to read, her voice steady as she lost herself in the story. Theo listened intently, his teasing smile softening into something more genuine.As she read, Daphne felt the earlier tension begin to dissolve. Theo's occasional glances and quiet laughter made her heart flutter, but this time it was a pleasant sensation.When she finished the third chapter, she closed the book and looked up at him. "Happy now?""Very," Theo replied. "And I think you might actually read a bit more now."Daphne smiled, opening her book and returning to the story. She pulled her legs up and turned away as Theo returned to his laptop. With the soothing sound of the keyboard in the background, Daphne quickly lost herself in the story. She read the words until her eye lids grew too heavy and the words began to lose meaning. Eventually, Daphne's head drooped, and she fell asleep by the window, the book slipping from her grasp and landing softly on the seat beside her. Theo, engrossed in his work, looked up after a few moments of silence. He smiled softly as he saw Daphne asleep, her face illuminated by the gentle moonlight filtering through the curtains.As Theo observed her, he noticed the delicate curve of her eyelashes, the way her hair framed her face, and the gentle rise and fall of her chest as she breathed. Her lips were slightly parted, and her expression was serene, almost angelic. The moonlight highlighted the soft contours of her features, making her look even more beautiful.A strange sensation stirred inside Theo's chest, catching him off guard. He felt a mixture of warmth and unease, a fluttering that was both confusing and unsettling. He had never paid such close attention to someone before, and the intensity of his observation puzzled him. Theo stood and walked over to the window, carefully picking her up into his arms. As he held her, the sensation in his chest intensified, leaving him feeling vulnerable in a way he hadn't experienced before. Daphne stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open for a brief moment."Shh," Theo whispered, his voice soothing. "Go back to sleep."Daphne murmured something unintelligible and nestled against him, her eyes closing once more. Theo gently carried her to the bed and laid her down before tucking her in, making sure she was comfortable. He pulled the covers over her and brushed a strand of hair from her face, feeling a strange sense of protectiveness."Sweet dreams," he whispered softly, his fingers lingering for a moment on her cheek before he stepped back.As Theo stood there, watching her sleep, he couldn't shake the feeling inside his chest. Unable to stop himself, he reached out once more, his fingers hovering just above her skin, yearning to feel its softness.What are you doing? Theo asked himself, his hand pausing before he could touch her.Regaining his senses, Theo withdrew his hand and returned to his laptop. He pushed himself to get through the emails and presentations waiting for him on the screen but suddenly all of his focus was now divided between his work and the gentle rise and fall of Daphne's breathing. He tried to concentrate on the work in front of him, but his eyes kept drifting back to her.Every time he looked at Daphne, a new detail caught his attention. The way her hair spread out on the pillow, the subtle curve of her lips, the rhythmic motion of her chest as she breathed—all of it captivated him. His mind wandered to thoughts of her, imagining what she might be dreaming about or what it would be like to hold her close. The strange sensation in his chest persisted, making it difficult to focus on his work.Minutes turned into hours as Theo tried to complete his tasks, but the distraction was too strong. The room was filled with a peaceful silence, broken only by the sound of the keyboard and Daphne's soft breathing. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't tear his attention away from her.After a few hours of struggling, Theo sighed, leaning back in his chair and running a hand through his hair. He closed his laptop, finally admitting to himself that he wouldn't get any more work done tonight. Instead, he let himself simply watch Daphne, allowing the strange but comforting sensation in his chest to wash over him.With a deep breath, Theo stood and walked over to the bed. Daphne was nestled beneath the covers, her face bathed in the gentle moonlight that filtered through the curtains. Theo took a moment to simply admire her. Carefully, Theo slipped under the covers beside her, being mindful not to disturb her sleep. As he settled into the bed, Daphne sighed softly, her breath brushing against Theo's skin. He smiled, his heart warming at the sound. He turned on his side, facing her in the dim light, and propped himself up on one elbow, gazing at Daphne. As the minutes passed, Theo's eyes grew heavy, his body gradually relaxing into the warmth of the bed. He let out a contented sigh, allowing the soothing ambiance to wash over him. With a final glance at Daphne, Theo's eyelids fluttered closed. His breathing synchronized with hers, and he drifted off to sleep, feeling an unexpected yet comforting sense of closeness and peace.________________________ Levi Levi's vision blurred with a throbbing headache as he dialed Mason's number, the weight of his frustration evident in his clenched jaw. When Mason picked up, Levi's voice was mix of disbelief and hurt."Hey," Levi started, his tone strained. "Is it true that Evelyn's getting married?"There was a brief pause on the other end before Mason responded, sounding nonchalant but slightly unsure. "Yeah, I heard about it," he said. "I don't know much about it, though. The guy's name is Harry, he's some sort of Brit and his family is in the government. But that's about all I know."Levi's frustration boiled over. "Harry? She didn't even mention him to me," Levi rubbed his forehead. "I get it, man. It's tough when something big like this happens and you're not in the loop," Mason's voice softened, trying to offer comfort. "But maybe she just... didn't know how to tell you.""So she just sends a card?" Levi huffed. "I don't know," Mason sighed. "I don't know what goes on in her head." "I spoke to her just a few weeks ago," Levi said. "She mentioned nothing about this guy. We talked for three hours about the election, Mason." Levi's heart had sunk as he grappled with the sting of betrayal. "It's not just about not being in the loop. It's about feeling like I wasn't important enough for her to share this with. I don't even know who this guy is. What the hell is she doing?""Look, Levi, you're clearly overwhelmed right now," Mason sighed. "Maybe you should just take a moment and try to call Evie. Get it straight from her. It might help to hear it from her directly.""Where are you right now?" Levi asked, taking a pause as he realized he hadn't seen his brother in a while. "Somewhere in Ibiza," Mason chuckled. "What are you doing there?" Levi questioned. "I met a girl," Mason said. "She's here with her friends so I thought why not." "Are you coming back for this weekend?" Levi asked. "For Evie's party?" Mason laughed. "Hell yeah. I miss my girl." "Are you sure she didn't tell you anything about this Harry guy?" Levi asked. "No," Mason replied. "Why do you think she would tell me and not you?" Levi's jaw clenched. He didn't know how to tell his brother he knew about his and Evie's brief but secret relationship. Levi still remembered the day after his dad's birthday when he caught Evie sneaking out of Mason's room in the middle of the night. It took everything in his control not to beat the shit out of his twin. Evie was off-limits. Levi had assumed it was an unspoke rule between all the brothers. But of course, Mason would be the one to completely disregard any honor code. "I don't know," Levi pinched the bridge of his nose. "I guess I'll see you this weekened.""Yeah, see ya," Mason said disconnecting the phone. Levi took in a deep breath and stared out the large glass windows of his apartment. The tightness in his chest was suffocating. Ever since he left his mother's office, he had been unable to think of anyone or anything else beside Evie. And every time he remembered her name next to Harry, it was as if all the air in his lungs burned up, leaving him with nothing but smoke. When Mason proved to be no help, Levi pulled up Theo's number and hit dial. ___________________________ Theo Daphne slowly stirred from her sleep, the gentle warmth surrounding her coaxing her awake. As she opened her eyes, she immediately noticed the comforting pressure against her body. She felt snug and secure, nestled in a cocoon of warmth.Blinking sleepily, Daphne shifted slightly and realized she was nestled against Theo, his arms wrapped protectively around her. His chest rose and fell beneath her, creating a steady, rhythmic comfort. She could feel his heartbeat, steady and reassuring, beneath her cheek.Theo pulled her closer, tucking her securely under his chin. His warmth enveloped her completely, the gentle rise and fall of his breath adding to the feeling of safety. Daphne's head rested just below his jaw, and she could feel the faintest tremor of his heartbeat through his skin.She blinked again, her mind slowly clearing from the remnants of sleep. Her heart fluttered at the closeness, and a soft smile crept across her lips. The familiar yet unexpected sensation of being held so tenderly was both comforting and exhilarating.As she lay there, wrapped in Theo's embrace, Daphne noticed how his arms felt solid and reassuring, a stark contrast to the uncertainty she had felt the night before. The gentle pressure of his hold made her belly clench. She took a deep breath, savoring the softness of the moment and Theo's scent. Despite the initial surprise of waking up in his arms, a sense of contentment settled over her. Daphne remained there for a few moments, enjoying the peaceful start to the day. After a few long moments, her gaze shifted upward, and she found herself captivated by Theo's peaceful expression. The soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow on his face, accentuating the contours of his strong jaw and the relaxed lines of his features.Her eyes traced the relaxed curve of his lips and the slight shadow of stubble on his chin. Theo's hair, still tousled from sleep, framed his face in a way that made him look effortlessly handsome. Daphne's heart began to beat faster as she took in the sight, her earlier sleepiness giving way to a more intense awareness.A flutter of excitement stirred within her, and her thoughts, previously calm and content, took a more intimate turn. She felt a warm tingle of desire as she studied the way Theo's chest rose and fell beneath her, the gentle rise and fall that made her feel so close to him.Unable to resist, Daphne slowly wiggled her hand up from where it had been resting. Her fingers, almost trembling with anticipation, brushed ever so lightly against the edge of Theo's face. The soft touch of her fingertips against his skin was electrifying, and she marveled at how warm and smooth he felt. The sensation sent a shiver through her. As her fingers lingered near his cheek, Daphne's pulse quickened. Her breath caught in her throat as she looked at him, her heart racing with a mixture of affection and desire. Her fingers began to inch closer to his lips. She dared to let them flutter over them ever so slightly. But unknown to her, as Daphne laid exploring Theo, he was fully awake. Theo felt the gentle touch of Daphne's fingers against his face, a soft and unexpected sensation that stirred him from the depths of his slumber. The initial brush of her fingertips was light and delicate, and he could feel the warmth of her hand as it moved slowly across his cheek. He noted the tenderness of her touch and how her fingers seemed to explore his features with an almost hesitant curiosity.He lay there, pretending to be asleep, savoring the moment. The sensation of her hand lingering on his skin was soothing. Her touch was gentle and exploratory, each movement a delicate brush against his face that heightened his awareness of her presence.As Daphne's fingers inched closer to his lips, Theo's heart raced with anticipation. He could feel the slight tremor in her touch as she dared to let her fingers flutter over his lips. The lightest of grazes, barely perceptible, made his breath catch, and he fought to keep his own response hidden.He lay still, allowing her to explore and play with his hair, her fingers occasionally brushing against his scalp. The sensation of her touch, combined with the warmth of her body pressed against him, was both comforting and thrilling. Theo reveled in the closeness and the gentle way she seemed to discover his features. Despite being fully awake and aware of every subtle movement, Theo chose to remain in this delicate pretense. The vulnerability and affection conveyed through her touches made him feel calm. He could sense the affection in her touch, and he felt a surge of tenderness towards her.Theo laid as still as he could with his eyes closed, letting Daphne continue her gentle exploration. But suddenly, the tranquil moment was abruptly shattered by the shrill ring of his phone. The sudden noise pierced through the serene stillness of the room, jarring Theo out of his pretense of sleep. His eyes flew open, and he felt a surge of frustration and anger at the intrusion.Daphne, startled by the loud ringtone, jolted away from him. Her touch, so tender and intimate just moments before, was abruptly cut off as she scrambled to distance herself. Theo watched, a pang of irritation tightening in his chest, as she shifted away, her expression a mix of surprise and confusion and embarrassment. The phone continued to ring insistently, each chime amplifying Theo's mounting annoyance. He reached out and grabbed the offending device, silencing it with a quick swipe. The room fell into a heavy silence again, but the calm they had shared was now fractured.Theo sat up, running a hand through his disheveled hair, his mind racing. The anger was not just at the interruption but also at the lost moment, the sudden shift from the closeness he had been savoring. His irritation was compounded by the sight of Daphne, her cheeks flushed and her eyes wide, clearly disoriented by the disruption.He glanced over at her, the warmth of their earlier connection now replaced by a tangible tension. The anger that had flared within Theo slowly began to cool, replaced by a sense of regret for the way things had unfolded. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, and turned his focus back to Daphne, who was now nervously rolling out of bed. Theo watched as Daphne practically bolted from the bed, her steps quickening in her haste to reach the other side of the room. He couldn't help but chuckle softly at the sight, the tension easing from his body. Her sudden retreat was both endearing and amusing, and it made the earlier frustration melt away."Where are you going?" Theo called out, a playful tone in his voice as he wondered if she was really trying to escape him."Bathroom," Daphne replied, her voice slightly breathless as she disappeared behind the bathroom door, shutting it firmly.Theo rolled over in bed, burying his face in her pillow and inhaling the faint scent of her shampoo. He chuckled again, the laughter bubbling up from deep within him. The absurdity of the situation, combined with the lingering warmth of their morning, left him feeling strangely lighthearted.He lay there for a moment, relishing the softness of her pillow and the remnants of her presence. Despite the rude interruption, he found himself smiling, the morning's events taking on a humorous light in retrospect. Grabbing his phone, Theo checked the screen and dialed back Levi's number. "Hey," Levi answered. "Hey," Theo shifted a yawn. "What's up?" "I need you to do a background check on someone for me," Levi said. "You couldn't have texted me?" Theo scowled. "You woke me up at seven in the morning for this?" "Since when do you sleep in until seven?" Levi huffed. "I was enjoying my sleep today," Theo sighed and then yawned. "Who pissed you off? Why do you need to do a background check?" "I'm just trying to get some information. "On who?" "Harry Sinclair," Levi said. Theo paused, "You're kidding. Evie's fiance?""Yeah." "Why on God's green earth do you need to run a background check on him?" Theo asked. "Have you lost your mind?" "Can you do it, yes or no?" Levi snapped. "I'll pass it along to my assistant," Theo rolled his eyes. "Anything else?" "No, thank you. That's all," Levi sighed. "I'll see you Saturday.""Yeah," Theo nodded. "Saturday." As Levi ended the call, Theo lowered the phone and pulled up Mason's number. Theo: What crawled up Levi's ass?Mason: Harry Sinclair Theo: Man's losing it Throwing back the covers, Theo climbed out of bed and tossed his phone onto the pillow. He grabbed the hem of his T-shirt and pulled it over his head before tossing it into his bag. Walking over to the bathroom door, he raised his arm and leaned against the frame and knocked. "What?" Daphne answered from inside. Theo hesitated for a moment, then decided to lighten the mood. "You okay in there?" he called, a playful lilt in his tone.There was a brief pause before Daphne responded. "Yes, I'm fine." "You sure?" Theo smiled, picturing her on the other side of the door. "You seemed pretty eager to get away from me.""I was frightened by your beastly appearance so early on in the morning," Daphne replied, her voice a bit more steady. "I'm sure you were," Theo chuckled softly, knocking lightly again. "Take your time, darling. But, just so you know, I'm not going anywhere."He could almost hear Daphne's exasperated sigh through the door. Theo pushed off the door frame and took a step back, still smiling. He turned and walked back to the bed, feeling the strange sensation in his chest again. But this time, it was accompanied by a warmth that spread through him, making him look forward to seeing Daphne step out of the bathroom. He lay back down on the bed, propping himself up on one elbow, and waited, the playful grin still tugging at his lips. When he heard the click of the lock, he sat up slowly. The bathroom door opened, and Daphne stepped out, her movements hesitant. Their eyes met, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. Theo thought he could act as if nothing had happened, but as soon as they looked into each other's eyes, the awkwardness from earlier resurfaced, thick and palpable.Daphne's cheeks flushed, her eyes darting away from his intense gaze. She fiddled with the hem of her shirt, her body language betraying her discomfort. Theo felt a similar unease settle over him, the easy confidence he usually carried slipping away."Hi," he said, his voice softer, the earlier playfulness now replaced with a tentative warmth."Hi," Daphne replied, barely above a whisper, her eyes flickering back to his before quickly looking away again.An awkward silence stretched between them, both unsure of what to say next. Theo cleared his throat, standing up from the bed, and took a step toward her, but then hesitated, sensing her need for space."Are you done? I need to shower" Theo asked, his hands awkwardly finding their way into his pockets.Daphne nodded, "All yours." They both began to move, maintaining a careful distance from each other. Theo held the door open for Daphne, and as she passed by, their eyes met once more, a fleeting connection that sent a jolt through him. He quickly looked away, his heart pounding.As Daphne walked past, her own heart was raced. She felt a mix of nervousness and something she couldn't quite place. The brief eye contact had been electric, leaving her both flustered and intrigued.Theo watched her go, the door closing softly behind her. He stood there for a moment, trying to collect his thoughts. The image of Daphne's shy smile and bright eyes lingering in his mind. Finally, he shook his head, trying to refocus, and headed into the shower. __________________ Walking down the grand stairwell of the Harrison mansion, Daphne couldn't help but pause to admire the foyer. She took a moment to herself to look around at the charm of the old home. Her heart fluttered with hopes and dreams she had been growing since she was a little girl. "One day," she whispered to herself. With a small nod, Daphne made her way down to the patio where the chef was serving breakfast and all the guests had arrived from their rooms. Emma greeted her with a warm smile and handed her a cup of coffee. "Where's Theo?" Daphne asked, looking around the table. "He's in the yard with the boys," Emma said. Daphne set down her coffee and walked to the steps leading to the lush green lawn and pool. She smiled as she spotted her six-foot-three 'boyfriend' swinging Reed around in his arms, the little boy's laughter echoing through the yard. The sight of Theo, so relaxed and playful, tugged at the smile on her lips. As she approached, Theo noticed her and gave a broad grin that made her heart skip a beat. Reed, still in his arms, squealed in delight as they twirled around once more before Theo gently set him down on the grass."Having fun?" Daphne asked, coming to a stop beside them. "Always," Theo replied, walking over to her. "Good morning." Theo cupped Daphne's face and placed a small kiss on her forehead. "Good morning," Daphne replied, a bit breathless. Wrapping an arm around her shoulders, Theo pulled her close. Together, they turned to watch Reed. For a moment, everything felt perfect. But the moment was short lived as Daphne looked up and caught Ava's eyes. Her smile faltered slightly as she noticed the girl standing a few yards away, her eyes fixed on Theo and Daphne with a look that was hard to read.Ava's presence brought back the reality of their situation, and the reminder that Daphne and Theo were only pretending. Ava's gaze was steady, almost probing, as if trying to decipher the nature of Daphne and Theo's relationship. Daphne's heart tightened, and she felt a pang of insecurity. She turned her head slightly, trying to shake off the unsettling feeling.Theo, still holding her close, didn't seem to notice Ava's scrutiny. He was focused on Reed, who was now running towards them with a toy firetruck, his laughter filling the air. Daphne tried to immerse herself in the moment, but Ava's stare lingered in her mind."What's wrong?" Theo asked, sensing her tension."Nothing," Daphne lied, forcing a smile. "Just thinking about something."Theo nodded, but his brow furrowed slightly as if he could sense there was more to her words. Daphne took a deep breath, trying to clear her thoughts. She knew she had to keep up the facade, especially around Ava. As Reed reached them, Theo knelt down to engage with him, giving Daphne a moment to collect herself. She glanced back at Ava, who was now talking to someone else, though her eyes flickered back to them occasionally.Daphne steeled herself, reminding herself she had a job to do. She reached down and ruffled Reed's hair, trying to focus on the here and now. As Theo stood up, she leaned and wrapped her arms around him before giving him a small kiss on his chest. "Ready for breakfast?" Theo asked, looking down at her. "Yeah," Daphne nodded. "I'm starving," Theo began. "You're always starving-" Daphne began to head back to the patio when suddenly Theo picked her up and placed her over his shoulder."Put me down!" Daphne immediately protested. Theo laughed as he spun her around as if she was Reed. He held her legs firmly against himself to secure her while walking over to the group. His eyes flickered toward Ava and he instantly felt a hundred times better seeing her eyes narrowed. He had never done anything like that with her. Daphne's protests turned into giggles as Theo carried her effortlessly. "Theo, seriously, put me down! This is so embarrassing!""Not a chance," Theo replied, his laughter mingling with hers. "I might make this a habit."As they approached the patio, the group turned to watch the playful scene, smiles spreading across their faces. Theo finally set Daphne down, her cheeks flushed from a mix of laughter and embarrassment. She swatted at him playfully. "You're impossible," she said, fixing her hair and pulling down her sweater. "Did that work up an appetite?" Theo asked. "We could go again." "Stop it!" Daphne stepped away, still smiling despite herself. She could feel Ava's eyes on them as they walked to the breakfast bar together, but instead of letting it unsettle her, she decided to embrace the moment. She linked her arm with Theo's, determined to make the most of their time together, even if it was all pretend."Pancakes?" Theo asked, handing her a plate. "No, thank you," Daphne looked down at all the food and her belly churned. "Eggs?" Theo pointed. "No..." "Fruits?" "Yes," Daphne smiled. "I'll have some fruits." Theo stepped aside, allowing Daphne to grab a few pieces of watermelon and grapes. "That's it?" Theo asked. "And a yogurt," Daphne held up the small cup of yogurt.Before Theo could comment, Daphne turned and walked back to the table. She sat down and made space for Theo as Nadia and Sue turned toward her. "You two are too cute," Nadia commented. "It must be the honeymoon phase," Sue teased. Daphne's cheeks flushed, "Thank you." "Enjoy it while it lasts," Emma added. "Once you're married and the kids come along, it's over." "Oh, I don't think they're ready for that yet, Em," Ava walked over to the table and joined in. She took a seat directly across from Daphne and offered her famous frosty smile. "It's still a budding romance. Let's not speak of marriage just yet." Daphne felt a chill run down her spine at Ava's words, but she managed a polite smile. "We're just enjoying the moment," she replied, glancing at Theo as he walked over to the table. "Ladies," Theo cleared his throat. "I hope you're not teasing my girl." "What if we were?" Emma challenged playfully. "Then I would be worried for your safety, Em," Theo laughed. He pulled back his chair and took a seat. "We were just talking about how cute you two were," Sue said. "That's all her," Theo pulled Daphne's chair closer and kissed her shoulder. "Pipe down the PDA, Silvano," Allen said coming up the stairs from the backyard. "We get it. You're in love." Daphne's heart squeezed and she stiffened. Theo felt the shift and patted her shoulder as if that would shake out the butterflies in her belly. "If I remember correctly, you and Nadia would practically have sex on the dinner table when you two first met," Theo joked. Nadia gasped, "Theo!" "You two were insufferable," Sam added. "One time Theo and James walked in on you two in Allen's dorm room." "Wasn't that the time Allen twisted his ankle trying to get off the bed and kick us out?" James asked. "Why he didn't lock the door before hand still boggles my mind," Theo laughed. "We were caught up in the moment!" Nadia said. Her husband walked around the table and went over to stand beside her. "And James you could not look at me for the rest of the semester without grinning like an idiot." "So the warning signs were always there, huh?" Theo said, his jaw clenching as he looked at James. The air grew thick with tension as the laughter at the table faded. James's smile faltered, and he glanced uneasily at Theo. The others exchanged nervous glances, sensing the shift in the atmosphere.James cleared his throat, trying to diffuse the situation. "It was all in good fun, right? We were just kids.""Yeah, sure," Theo replied, his tone edged with bitterness. A heavy silence settled over the group. Daphne reached for Theo's hand as she looked between him and James, feeling the weight of the unspoken history between them.Emma, sensing the need to intervene, quickly changed the subject. "Well, those were the good old days. We all have our embarrassing moments, don't we?"Nadia nodded, laughing nervously. "Absolutely. And we've all grown up since then, right?"Theo didn't respond, his eyes still locked on James. The tension was palpable, and even the lighthearted attempts to steer the conversation couldn't entirely dispel it. Ava, sitting across from Daphne, reached for James's hand. She tugged on his arm to gain his attention as Theo pulled Daphne closer and buried his nose in her hair, looking over her head toward the house. "Daphne," Nate's loud voice suddenly spoke up, fighting to break through the tension. "Tell us more about yourself. I feel like I hardly know the woman who tied down my best friend." Nate's comment drew everyone's attention to Daphne, providing a welcome distraction from the tension. Daphne's smile widened, and she leaned into Theo, feeling his warmth. "Well, if you must know," Daphne began, her eyes twinkling with mischief, "I'm an international spy. And Theo happens to be my latest assignment." The group laughed, the mood lightening immediately. Theo chuckled, nuzzling her hair. "Really?" Sam said, playing along. "Because I always knew Theo had a type." "Oh, absolutely," Daphne nodded. "He can't resist a woman with a mysterious past and a penchant for danger.""Sounds intriguing," Emma added, grinning. "So, what's your mission, Agent?""To keep him on his toes, of course," Daphne replied, winking. "And to ensure he never has a dull moment.""Mission accomplished," Theo said, his eyes filled with admiration. "She's definitely succeeded in that.""I had no idea we had a real-life action hero among us," Ava smirked. "Oh, I have many talents," Daphne laughed. "But my greatest one is keeping him in line," "That sounds like a full-time job," Sue commented, laughing."It is," Daphne agreed. "But someone's got to do it. And besides, he makes it worth the effort.""How so?" Nadia asked, curious."Well," Daphne said, pretending to ponder. "He's a great cook, always knows how to make me laugh, and he's not too bad to look at either."Theo laughed, shaking his head, "Flattery will get you no where." Daphne turned to look back at him, "I'm flaunting." Theo leaned forward, his nose brushing against her, "And you're doing a damn good job." "What's the score?" Daphne smiled, holding his gaze. "Ten out of ten," Theo said. "Hmm," Daphne's eyes flickered down to his lips. "Out of your league." "Hey, hey," Nate clapped his hands. "We have children in this household. Six feet apart you two." Daphne playfully pushed Theo back, "You heard him." Grinning, Theo pulled back. He couldn't take his eyes off of Daphne as she turned away to chat with Nadia. As breakfast continued, the lighthearted conversation flowed, but Ava's questioning eyes lingered on the pair, catching Theo's gaze ever so often. Her presence was becoming increasingly bothersome, and Theo had no intention of hiding the dislike on his face. Each time he caught Ava looking at him, his expression hardened, and he pulled Daphne a little closer, his hand resting possessively on her back.When breakfast finally came to an end, Ava made her way over to Theo, a determined look in her eyes. Theo braced himself, his jaw tightening as he prepared for whatever she had to say. But before Ava could get too close, Daphne appeared before him. "Are you okay?" She asked, tilting her head. "Yeah," Theo cleared his throat. He could still see Ava waiting over Daphne's shoulder. "I was thinking we drive down to the town. What do you say?" Daphne smiled, "Sure." Theo took Daphne's hand, pulling her gently towards the door. Ava's eyes followed them with an unreadable expression. She hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath and approached them."I was just going to ask if Daphne would like to join me for a game of tennis," Ava said, her voice smooth but tinged with an edge.Theo's grip on Daphne's hand tightened, his protective instinct kicking in. "Actually, we were just about to head out," he said, his tone firm.Before Ava could say anything else, Theo opened the door and walked Daphne out. He stayed silent as he held the car door open for her and then climbed into the driver's seat. Daphne watched him closely as they pulled out of the Harrison Estate. The sun was shining brightly as they cruised down the winding road that led to the small town, the engine humming softly beneath them. Theo's fingers gripped the steering wheel, his gaze occasionally flicking to Daphne beside him.Daphne was staring out the window, enjoying the change of scenery and the fall colors. The picturesque landscape, with its rolling hills and quaint farmhouses, offered a peaceful respite from the drama back at the mansion.Theo glanced at her, his expression softening as he took in her serene profile. "You seem to be enjoying this," he said, his tone light but sincere.Daphne turned to him with a smile. "It's nice to get away for a bit. I needed this."Theo nodded, the tension in his shoulders easing. He let out a sigh, his earlier frustration with Ava slowly melting away. "I'm glad. I just couldn't handle being around her right now."Daphne chuckled softly, the sound light and carefree. "I don't blame you. She's got a way of making things awkward.""One of her many hidden talents apparently," Theo said under his breath. As they continued their drive, Theo wanted to reach over and take Daphne's hand. But as soon as the idea came into his head, she shook it away. He held the steering wheel with both hands instead to make sure they didn't grown a mind of their own. After a few minutes, they pulled into the town, the charming streets lined with small shops and cafes. Theo parked the car and turned to Daphne."Do you want to explore a bit? There's a a really good baker here."Daphne nodded. "Sounds good." They stepped out of the car and walked side by side down the street, the quiet hum of the town a soothing backdrop to their lack of conversation. The earlier tension seemed to dissolve with each step, replaced by a warm, shared sense of peace. The simple pleasure of being alone, away from the pressures and expectations of their pretend play, was a welcome relief.Daphne followed Theo into the small bakery and watched him order a dozen cinnamon sugar donuts. She walked around as the lady behind the counter packed his order and chatted with him about remembering seeing him in the shop the previous fall. When he was done, Daphne smiled at the sweet old woman and followed Theo out. "Do you want to try a bite?" Theo asked, holding out the free donut the lady had gifted him. "No," Daphne's nose wrinkled. "A small bite," Theo insisted. "Please, stop," Daphne stepped away. "Daphne," Theo laughed. "Come back here and try a bite." "No, thank you," Daphne began walking away. She looked over her shoulder and shook her head as Theo continued to follow her, hounding her to try a bite. "Leave me alon-" "Ah!" A woman yelped. "Oh, I am so sorry!" Daphne turned to apologize but froze instantly. Her eyes widened in sudden recognition. She froze, her heart pounding in her chest, as she stared at Sarah standing just a few feet away. Sarah, looking unchanged from high school except for a more polished, confident air, turned and locked eyes with Daphne. The old, familiar anxiety surged within Daphne as Sara's gaze swept over her. "Daphne?" Sarah gasped. "Oh my god, hi!" Daphne's insides began to tremble, "H-hi." "What are you doing in Edenfield?" Sarah asked, her eyes slowly looking Daphne up and down as they ever so often did in high school. Daphne felt like she was being scrutinized all over again as if she were still the same vulnerable girl from their past. Her throat tightened, and she found herself struggling to breathe."Wow," Sarah flashed her plastic smile. "You still look the same. But your sense of style has definitely changed. Love the shoes." Daphne wanted to shrink and hide. Sarah's gaze felt too heavy. Daphne feared all her flaws and imperfections would start to bubble up to the surface if Sarah continued to stare. "Good to see you," Daphne managed to say, desperate to get away. "I have to go." "Wait," Sarah stopped her. "You have to meet my husband." "No, I really-" Suddenly, a tall figure came to stand beside Sarah. Daphne felt herself grow smaller in size as she realized it was Steven. The same Steven who couldn't lift her during their dance recital. This is not happening, Daphne wanted to throw up. "You remember Steven," Sarah said, placing her hand over his chest and showing off her giant ring. "Steven, do you remember Daphne from highschool?" "Daphne?" Steven arched his brow. "Daphne the duck?" Sarah laughed, swatting her husband's arm, "Stop it." Daphne could feel her eyes burning. She wanted to turn and run down the street until she was miles away from those two when suddenly Theo came to stand by her side. Instantly, his protective instincts flared as he noticed the tension in her posture. He squared his shoulders and addressed Sarah and Steven with a firm, confident tone. "Hi there. I'm Theo, Daphne's boyfriend."Sara's eyes widened slightly, her expression flickering between surprise and curiosity as she took in Theo's good looks."Nice to meet you," she said, holding out her hand. "Sarah. We went to high school with Daphne."She turned her attention back to Daphne, her gaze lingering with an unsettling familiarity. Daphne remained silent, her hands trembling slightly as she clung to Theo's. Her anxiety was spilling, and she struggled to maintain her composure. The conversation felt surreal, a blur of words and faces as her mind raced with old insecurities."Steven," Steven held out his hand. "Why do I feel like I know you?" "Theo Silvano," Theo smiled. "Silvano Landmark Developments." "Yes, of course!" Steven laughed, his demeanor shifting. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Silvano." "Please, call me Theo," Theo smiled. "Especially if you're an old friend of Daphne." Sarah's eyes moved from Daphne to Theo and then to her husband. "Theo's company owns the buildings for all of our offices in New York City," Steven explained. "Actually, I'm pretty sure they own half of Manhattan." "We're getting there," Theo laughed, putting his arm around Daphne. "Oh, I see," Sarah smiled. "How long have you two been dating?" Theo looked down at Daphne, "About a year, right?" "And still no ring?" Sarah teased. "What are you waiting for?" "Daphne wants to focus on her career," Theo said. "She has taken over our financial department. Her hands are full right now." "Oh, wow," Steven looked at Daphne. "Congratulations." "Thank you..." Daphne managed to whisper. "Well, it was very nice meeting you both," Theo cut in. "I hate to cut this short but I promised Daphne I would spend the afternoon shopping with her." "Sounds fun," Sarah said. "Nice to see you both." "Thank you," Theo began to pull Daphne away but Sarah suddenly stepped forward and pulled her into a hug. "It was so good seeing you," Sara said, her voice laced with a sickening sweetness. Daphne could barely hear the words over the rush of anxiety in her ears.Then Sara's voice dropped to a whisper, brushing against Daphne's ear. "We have to catch up over dinner so you can tell me all about how you managed to pull a guy like that."The whisper sent a shiver down Daphne's spine. The insinuation in Sara's voice, mingled with the overwhelming anxiety, caused her breath to catch in her throat. She could feel her hands trembling, and she struggled to maintain any semblance of composure.Theo's hand tightened on her back, a silent reassurance as he gently but firmly pulled her away from Sara's embrace. "Let's go," he said, his voice brooking no argument. He guided Daphne to the car with a comforting, steady presence.Daphne slid into the passenger seat, her movements mechanical. She stared out the window, the world outside blurring as her thoughts spun in a chaotic whirlwind. The encounter had drained her, leaving her feeling exposed and vulnerable. Theo closed the door gently and walked around to the driver's side, his face set in a determined expression as he started the car.As they drove away, Theo kept glancing over at Daphne, his concern evident. "Are you sure you're okay?" he asked softly. Daphne nodded, though her eyes remained distant. She looked down at the pink box of donuts on her lap and opened it. Theo watched her from the corner of his eyes as she took out one of the donuts and began to eat it. "It's good right?" He asked, hoping to get her talking. Theo's concern deepened as he observed Daphne's silent struggle. The cheerful atmosphere of the town had faded into an awkward tension, and now, in the privacy of the car, Daphne's distress was palpable. Theo watched her with growing worry as she methodically consumed the donuts, her movements mechanical, almost as if she were operating on autopilot.As they arrived back at the Harrison mansion, Theo tried to engage her, his voice soft and full of concern. "What's on your mind?" he asked gently.Daphne said nothing, but her eyes were distant, her gaze unfocused as she clutched the pink box of donuts. Theo's heart ached at the sight of her—she was visibly disassociated from the moment, lost in her own turmoil. She didn't meet his eyes as she slowly picked out another donut, her hands trembling slightly.Theo watched helplessly, feeling a knot of anxiety tighten in his chest. "How can I help?" he asked, trying to draw her into conversation, but his attempt to connect was met with a heavy silence. Daphne didn't respond. Instead, she continued to eat, her expression blank. When they reached the mansion, Daphne quietly excused herself and retreated to their room, seeking solitude. Theo followed her with his eyes. He wanted to comfort her, to understand what was going on in her mind, but he was unsure of how to break through the wall of silence she had erected around herself.
My fingers hurt from typing
Theo Standing before the bathroom vanity, Daphne took her time applying her hand cream, making sure she massaged in every last drop as she stared at herself in the mirror. Her stomach was in knots, and the fluttering inside her chest made her feel like she was losing her breath. She picked up her hairbrush and began to run it through her locks, her thoughts spiraling.Bra on or off, Daphne wondered, looking down at her pink gingham pajamas. It would be so uncomfortable to sleep with her bra on. But what if Theo woke up before her and she sat up and he noticed she didn't have a bra on?Daphne threw down her brush and took a seat on the edge of the bathtub. She began to chew on her bottom lip as she bounced her knees. She should have never agreed to come on this trip.The reality of sharing a room and a bed with Theo suddenly felt overwhelming. She replayed the evening's events in her mind, feeling nervous about the inevitable awkwardness of the situation. The idea of sleeping so close to him, on the same bed, made her heart race even more.Daphne glanced at the door, half-expecting Theo to knock and tell her it was time for bed. Her palms felt clammy, and she rubbed them together to ease the tension. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself, but the thoughts kept coming. What if she snored? What if she talked in her sleep? What if he noticed every little flaw she was so self-conscious about?Daphne stood up and paced the small bathroom, her mind a whirlwind of worry. This trip, meant to be a quick and easy weekend away, now felt like an emotional minefield. Daphne sighed deeply, wishing she could just relax and enjoy the beauty of Edenfield and the Harrison mansion.Finally, after spending an uncomfortable amount of time in the bathroom preparing, she resolved to go out and face the situation head-on. Daphne knew she couldn't hide in the bathroom forever. With one last glance in the mirror, she gave herself a little pep talk. "You can do this," she whispered. Taking a deep breath, she opened the bathroom door and stepped out. Theo looked up from where he was standing by the nightstand looking down at his phone. They both stilled, neither one saying a word. Daphne felt heat rise to her chest as her eyes raked over Theo's tall figure. He had changed into his pajamas too. The white cotton T-shirt hugged his broad shoulders and stretched across his chest, wrapping around his muscular arms. His hair was still damp from the shower he had taken earlier, and he stood barefoot, looking both out of place and completely different from his usual polished, business self.Theo cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "You all set?""Yes," Daphne replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She walked over to the bed, feeling acutely aware of every step she took. She could feel Theo's eyes on her, and it made her heart race even more.They both moved awkwardly around the room, trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy. Daphne fussed with the covers, smoothing them out unnecessarily, while Theo busied himself with adjusting the pillows. The silence between them grew too heavy while each of them tried to find something to say that wouldn't sound forced. After a few minutes when it became painfully obvious that they could no longer continue to make the bed, Daphne and Theo paused. They stared at the king size mattress as if it were a challenge they did not know how to tackle. Suddenly, Theo straightened up and cleared his throat. "I just remembered, I need to check some work emails," he said, his voice a bit too casual. "I should take care of that before bed.""Oh, sure," Daphne replied, seizing the opportunity to avoid the bed. "I'm not really sleepy yet either. I'm going to read for a bit.""Okay," Theo said, relief evident in his voice. He grabbed his phone and laptop before walking over to the writing desk in the room. Daphne watched him settle into the chair and begin typing away with exaggerated focus.After a few seconds, Daphne grabbed the book she had packed and moved to the window seat, her heart still pounding. She drew the curtains slightly and looked out at the night sky, trying to calm her racing thoughts. The room was filled with a strained silence, both of them keenly aware of the other's presence but pretending to be engrossed in their chosen distractions.The soft glow of the laptop screen illuminated Theo's face, and Daphne stole a glance at him, finding it hard not to admire the way he looked so different in this setting. She sighed, resting her head against the cool glass, her mind a whirlwind of emotions and unspoken words.The minutes ticked by, each one feeling longer than the last. Daphne's gaze wandered back to Theo, who seemed equally lost in thought despite his pretense of working. When he caught her gaze after a few minutes, she wondered if he felt the same nervousness, the same fluttering in his chest.Theo broke the silence with a playful grin. "You know, staring at the book won't magically turn the pages."Daphne blinked, then laughed softly. "I can't focus. I'm just a bit distracted.""By my dashing good looks?" Theo teased. Daphne rolled her eyes, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks. "Sure, let's go with that."Theo chuckled, leaning back in his chair and setting the laptop aside. "What are you reading? Or pretending to read?""You'll laugh," Daphne shook her head."I won't," Theo assured her. Daphne scrunched up her nose, unconvinced by his words. "Is it a romance novel?" Theo asked, tilting his head with curiosity. "No," Daphne shook her head. "Then what is it?" Daphne held up the book, the title barely visible in the dim light. "Alice in Wonderland." Theo's eyes widened in mock surprise. "Alice in Wonderland? Really?"Daphne's cheeks turned pink. "See? I knew you'd laugh.""I'm not laughing," Theo said, a grin spreading across his face. "I'm just... pleasantly surprised.""Pleasantly surprised?" Daphne raised an eyebrow, feeling a bit defensive."Yeah," Theo nodded. "It's a classic.""Why are you surprised by my choice?" Daphne asked, crossing her arms.Theo shrugged, still smiling. "I guess I expected something more contemporary. Alice in Wonderland just seems... timeless. I didn't peg you for a fan of the classics."Daphne softened a bit, her defensiveness melting away. "I love the whimsy and the imagination in it. It was a nice escape from reality growing up."Theo's smile widened. "I can see that. The idea of falling into a world where nothing makes sense but everything feels possible... it's kind of magical."Daphne looked at him, surprised by his genuine enthusiasm. "Really? I didn't take you for an Alice in Wonderland fan."Theo chuckled. "There's a lot you don't know about me yet. But I'm glad to see you appreciate the magic too."Daphne felt herself smile. "Maybe there's more to you than I thought.""Likewise," Theo returned the smile. He held her gaze for what seemed like forever before uttering his next words. "Read me a passage."Daphne looked at him, surprised. "You want me to read to you?""Why not? It might help you actually open the book." He said.Daphne hesitated, then flipped to the first page. Clearing her throat, she began to read, her voice steady as she lost herself in the story. Theo listened intently, his teasing smile softening into something more genuine.As she read, Daphne felt the earlier tension begin to dissolve. Theo's occasional glances and quiet laughter made her heart flutter, but this time it was a pleasant sensation.When she finished the third chapter, she closed the book and looked up at him. "Happy now?""Very," Theo replied. "And I think you might actually read a bit more now."Daphne smiled, opening her book and returning to the story. She pulled her legs up and turned away as Theo returned to his laptop. With the soothing sound of the keyboard in the background, Daphne quickly lost herself in the story. She read the words until her eye lids grew too heavy and the words began to lose meaning. Eventually, Daphne's head drooped, and she fell asleep by the window, the book slipping from her grasp and landing softly on the seat beside her. Theo, engrossed in his work, looked up after a few moments of silence. He smiled softly as he saw Daphne asleep, her face illuminated by the gentle moonlight filtering through the curtains.As Theo observed her, he noticed the delicate curve of her eyelashes, the way her hair framed her face, and the gentle rise and fall of her chest as she breathed. Her lips were slightly parted, and her expression was serene, almost angelic. The moonlight highlighted the soft contours of her features, making her look even more beautiful.A strange sensation stirred inside Theo's chest, catching him off guard. He felt a mixture of warmth and unease, a fluttering that was both confusing and unsettling. He had never paid such close attention to someone before, and the intensity of his observation puzzled him. Theo stood and walked over to the window, carefully picking her up into his arms. As he held her, the sensation in his chest intensified, leaving him feeling vulnerable in a way he hadn't experienced before. Daphne stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open for a brief moment."Shh," Theo whispered, his voice soothing. "Go back to sleep."Daphne murmured something unintelligible and nestled against him, her eyes closing once more. Theo gently carried her to the bed and laid her down before tucking her in, making sure she was comfortable. He pulled the covers over her and brushed a strand of hair from her face, feeling a strange sense of protectiveness."Sweet dreams," he whispered softly, his fingers lingering for a moment on her cheek before he stepped back.As Theo stood there, watching her sleep, he couldn't shake the feeling inside his chest. Unable to stop himself, he reached out once more, his fingers hovering just above her skin, yearning to feel its softness.What are you doing? Theo asked himself, his hand pausing before he could touch her.Regaining his senses, Theo withdrew his hand and returned to his laptop. He pushed himself to get through the emails and presentations waiting for him on the screen but suddenly all of his focus was now divided between his work and the gentle rise and fall of Daphne's breathing. He tried to concentrate on the work in front of him, but his eyes kept drifting back to her.Every time he looked at Daphne, a new detail caught his attention. The way her hair spread out on the pillow, the subtle curve of her lips, the rhythmic motion of her chest as she breathed—all of it captivated him. His mind wandered to thoughts of her, imagining what she might be dreaming about or what it would be like to hold her close. The strange sensation in his chest persisted, making it difficult to focus on his work.Minutes turned into hours as Theo tried to complete his tasks, but the distraction was too strong. The room was filled with a peaceful silence, broken only by the sound of the keyboard and Daphne's soft breathing. Despite his best efforts, he couldn't tear his attention away from her.After a few hours of struggling, Theo sighed, leaning back in his chair and running a hand through his hair. He closed his laptop, finally admitting to himself that he wouldn't get any more work done tonight. Instead, he let himself simply watch Daphne, allowing the strange but comforting sensation in his chest to wash over him.With a deep breath, Theo stood and walked over to the bed. Daphne was nestled beneath the covers, her face bathed in the gentle moonlight that filtered through the curtains. Theo took a moment to simply admire her. Carefully, Theo slipped under the covers beside her, being mindful not to disturb her sleep. As he settled into the bed, Daphne sighed softly, her breath brushing against Theo's skin. He smiled, his heart warming at the sound. He turned on his side, facing her in the dim light, and propped himself up on one elbow, gazing at Daphne. As the minutes passed, Theo's eyes grew heavy, his body gradually relaxing into the warmth of the bed. He let out a contented sigh, allowing the soothing ambiance to wash over him. With a final glance at Daphne, Theo's eyelids fluttered closed. His breathing synchronized with hers, and he drifted off to sleep, feeling an unexpected yet comforting sense of closeness and peace.________________________ Levi Levi's vision blurred with a throbbing headache as he dialed Mason's number, the weight of his frustration evident in his clenched jaw. When Mason picked up, Levi's voice was mix of disbelief and hurt."Hey," Levi started, his tone strained. "Is it true that Evelyn's getting married?"There was a brief pause on the other end before Mason responded, sounding nonchalant but slightly unsure. "Yeah, I heard about it," he said. "I don't know much about it, though. The guy's name is Harry, he's some sort of Brit and his family is in the government. But that's about all I know."Levi's frustration boiled over. "Harry? She didn't even mention him to me," Levi rubbed his forehead. "I get it, man. It's tough when something big like this happens and you're not in the loop," Mason's voice softened, trying to offer comfort. "But maybe she just... didn't know how to tell you.""So she just sends a card?" Levi huffed. "I don't know," Mason sighed. "I don't know what goes on in her head." "I spoke to her just a few weeks ago," Levi said. "She mentioned nothing about this guy. We talked for three hours about the election, Mason." Levi's heart had sunk as he grappled with the sting of betrayal. "It's not just about not being in the loop. It's about feeling like I wasn't important enough for her to share this with. I don't even know who this guy is. What the hell is she doing?""Look, Levi, you're clearly overwhelmed right now," Mason sighed. "Maybe you should just take a moment and try to call Evie. Get it straight from her. It might help to hear it from her directly.""Where are you right now?" Levi asked, taking a pause as he realized he hadn't seen his brother in a while. "Somewhere in Ibiza," Mason chuckled. "What are you doing there?" Levi questioned. "I met a girl," Mason said. "She's here with her friends so I thought why not." "Are you coming back for this weekend?" Levi asked. "For Evie's party?" Mason laughed. "Hell yeah. I miss my girl." "Are you sure she didn't tell you anything about this Harry guy?" Levi asked. "No," Mason replied. "Why do you think she would tell me and not you?" Levi's jaw clenched. He didn't know how to tell his brother he knew about his and Evie's brief but secret relationship. Levi still remembered the day after his dad's birthday when he caught Evie sneaking out of Mason's room in the middle of the night. It took everything in his control not to beat the shit out of his twin. Evie was off-limits. Levi had assumed it was an unspoke rule between all the brothers. But of course, Mason would be the one to completely disregard any honor code. "I don't know," Levi pinched the bridge of his nose. "I guess I'll see you this weekened.""Yeah, see ya," Mason said disconnecting the phone. Levi took in a deep breath and stared out the large glass windows of his apartment. The tightness in his chest was suffocating. Ever since he left his mother's office, he had been unable to think of anyone or anything else beside Evie. And every time he remembered her name next to Harry, it was as if all the air in his lungs burned up, leaving him with nothing but smoke. When Mason proved to be no help, Levi pulled up Theo's number and hit dial. ___________________________ Theo Daphne slowly stirred from her sleep, the gentle warmth surrounding her coaxing her awake. As she opened her eyes, she immediately noticed the comforting pressure against her body. She felt snug and secure, nestled in a cocoon of warmth.Blinking sleepily, Daphne shifted slightly and realized she was nestled against Theo, his arms wrapped protectively around her. His chest rose and fell beneath her, creating a steady, rhythmic comfort. She could feel his heartbeat, steady and reassuring, beneath her cheek.Theo pulled her closer, tucking her securely under his chin. His warmth enveloped her completely, the gentle rise and fall of his breath adding to the feeling of safety. Daphne's head rested just below his jaw, and she could feel the faintest tremor of his heartbeat through his skin.She blinked again, her mind slowly clearing from the remnants of sleep. Her heart fluttered at the closeness, and a soft smile crept across her lips. The familiar yet unexpected sensation of being held so tenderly was both comforting and exhilarating.As she lay there, wrapped in Theo's embrace, Daphne noticed how his arms felt solid and reassuring, a stark contrast to the uncertainty she had felt the night before. The gentle pressure of his hold made her belly clench. She took a deep breath, savoring the softness of the moment and Theo's scent. Despite the initial surprise of waking up in his arms, a sense of contentment settled over her. Daphne remained there for a few moments, enjoying the peaceful start to the day. After a few long moments, her gaze shifted upward, and she found herself captivated by Theo's peaceful expression. The soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow on his face, accentuating the contours of his strong jaw and the relaxed lines of his features.Her eyes traced the relaxed curve of his lips and the slight shadow of stubble on his chin. Theo's hair, still tousled from sleep, framed his face in a way that made him look effortlessly handsome. Daphne's heart began to beat faster as she took in the sight, her earlier sleepiness giving way to a more intense awareness.A flutter of excitement stirred within her, and her thoughts, previously calm and content, took a more intimate turn. She felt a warm tingle of desire as she studied the way Theo's chest rose and fell beneath her, the gentle rise and fall that made her feel so close to him.Unable to resist, Daphne slowly wiggled her hand up from where it had been resting. Her fingers, almost trembling with anticipation, brushed ever so lightly against the edge of Theo's face. The soft touch of her fingertips against his skin was electrifying, and she marveled at how warm and smooth he felt. The sensation sent a shiver through her. As her fingers lingered near his cheek, Daphne's pulse quickened. Her breath caught in her throat as she looked at him, her heart racing with a mixture of affection and desire. Her fingers began to inch closer to his lips. She dared to let them flutter over them ever so slightly. But unknown to her, as Daphne laid exploring Theo, he was fully awake. Theo felt the gentle touch of Daphne's fingers against his face, a soft and unexpected sensation that stirred him from the depths of his slumber. The initial brush of her fingertips was light and delicate, and he could feel the warmth of her hand as it moved slowly across his cheek. He noted the tenderness of her touch and how her fingers seemed to explore his features with an almost hesitant curiosity.He lay there, pretending to be asleep, savoring the moment. The sensation of her hand lingering on his skin was soothing. Her touch was gentle and exploratory, each movement a delicate brush against his face that heightened his awareness of her presence.As Daphne's fingers inched closer to his lips, Theo's heart raced with anticipation. He could feel the slight tremor in her touch as she dared to let her fingers flutter over his lips. The lightest of grazes, barely perceptible, made his breath catch, and he fought to keep his own response hidden.He lay still, allowing her to explore and play with his hair, her fingers occasionally brushing against his scalp. The sensation of her touch, combined with the warmth of her body pressed against him, was both comforting and thrilling. Theo reveled in the closeness and the gentle way she seemed to discover his features. Despite being fully awake and aware of every subtle movement, Theo chose to remain in this delicate pretense. The vulnerability and affection conveyed through her touches made him feel calm. He could sense the affection in her touch, and he felt a surge of tenderness towards her.Theo laid as still as he could with his eyes closed, letting Daphne continue her gentle exploration. But suddenly, the tranquil moment was abruptly shattered by the shrill ring of his phone. The sudden noise pierced through the serene stillness of the room, jarring Theo out of his pretense of sleep. His eyes flew open, and he felt a surge of frustration and anger at the intrusion.Daphne, startled by the loud ringtone, jolted away from him. Her touch, so tender and intimate just moments before, was abruptly cut off as she scrambled to distance herself. Theo watched, a pang of irritation tightening in his chest, as she shifted away, her expression a mix of surprise and confusion and embarrassment. The phone continued to ring insistently, each chime amplifying Theo's mounting annoyance. He reached out and grabbed the offending device, silencing it with a quick swipe. The room fell into a heavy silence again, but the calm they had shared was now fractured.Theo sat up, running a hand through his disheveled hair, his mind racing. The anger was not just at the interruption but also at the lost moment, the sudden shift from the closeness he had been savoring. His irritation was compounded by the sight of Daphne, her cheeks flushed and her eyes wide, clearly disoriented by the disruption.He glanced over at her, the warmth of their earlier connection now replaced by a tangible tension. The anger that had flared within Theo slowly began to cool, replaced by a sense of regret for the way things had unfolded. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, and turned his focus back to Daphne, who was now nervously rolling out of bed. Theo watched as Daphne practically bolted from the bed, her steps quickening in her haste to reach the other side of the room. He couldn't help but chuckle softly at the sight, the tension easing from his body. Her sudden retreat was both endearing and amusing, and it made the earlier frustration melt away."Where are you going?" Theo called out, a playful tone in his voice as he wondered if she was really trying to escape him."Bathroom," Daphne replied, her voice slightly breathless as she disappeared behind the bathroom door, shutting it firmly.Theo rolled over in bed, burying his face in her pillow and inhaling the faint scent of her shampoo. He chuckled again, the laughter bubbling up from deep within him. The absurdity of the situation, combined with the lingering warmth of their morning, left him feeling strangely lighthearted.He lay there for a moment, relishing the softness of her pillow and the remnants of her presence. Despite the rude interruption, he found himself smiling, the morning's events taking on a humorous light in retrospect. Grabbing his phone, Theo checked the screen and dialed back Levi's number. "Hey," Levi answered. "Hey," Theo shifted a yawn. "What's up?" "I need you to do a background check on someone for me," Levi said. "You couldn't have texted me?" Theo scowled. "You woke me up at seven in the morning for this?" "Since when do you sleep in until seven?" Levi huffed. "I was enjoying my sleep today," Theo sighed and then yawned. "Who pissed you off? Why do you need to do a background check?" "I'm just trying to get some information. "On who?" "Harry Sinclair," Levi said. Theo paused, "You're kidding. Evie's fiance?""Yeah." "Why on God's green earth do you need to run a background check on him?" Theo asked. "Have you lost your mind?" "Can you do it, yes or no?" Levi snapped. "I'll pass it along to my assistant," Theo rolled his eyes. "Anything else?" "No, thank you. That's all," Levi sighed. "I'll see you Saturday.""Yeah," Theo nodded. "Saturday." As Levi ended the call, Theo lowered the phone and pulled up Mason's number. Theo: What crawled up Levi's ass?Mason: Harry Sinclair Theo: Man's losing it Throwing back the covers, Theo climbed out of bed and tossed his phone onto the pillow. He grabbed the hem of his T-shirt and pulled it over his head before tossing it into his bag. Walking over to the bathroom door, he raised his arm and leaned against the frame and knocked. "What?" Daphne answered from inside. Theo hesitated for a moment, then decided to lighten the mood. "You okay in there?" he called, a playful lilt in his tone.There was a brief pause before Daphne responded. "Yes, I'm fine." "You sure?" Theo smiled, picturing her on the other side of the door. "You seemed pretty eager to get away from me.""I was frightened by your beastly appearance so early on in the morning," Daphne replied, her voice a bit more steady. "I'm sure you were," Theo chuckled softly, knocking lightly again. "Take your time, darling. But, just so you know, I'm not going anywhere."He could almost hear Daphne's exasperated sigh through the door. Theo pushed off the door frame and took a step back, still smiling. He turned and walked back to the bed, feeling the strange sensation in his chest again. But this time, it was accompanied by a warmth that spread through him, making him look forward to seeing Daphne step out of the bathroom. He lay back down on the bed, propping himself up on one elbow, and waited, the playful grin still tugging at his lips. When he heard the click of the lock, he sat up slowly. The bathroom door opened, and Daphne stepped out, her movements hesitant. Their eyes met, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. Theo thought he could act as if nothing had happened, but as soon as they looked into each other's eyes, the awkwardness from earlier resurfaced, thick and palpable.Daphne's cheeks flushed, her eyes darting away from his intense gaze. She fiddled with the hem of her shirt, her body language betraying her discomfort. Theo felt a similar unease settle over him, the easy confidence he usually carried slipping away."Hi," he said, his voice softer, the earlier playfulness now replaced with a tentative warmth."Hi," Daphne replied, barely above a whisper, her eyes flickering back to his before quickly looking away again.An awkward silence stretched between them, both unsure of what to say next. Theo cleared his throat, standing up from the bed, and took a step toward her, but then hesitated, sensing her need for space."Are you done? I need to shower" Theo asked, his hands awkwardly finding their way into his pockets.Daphne nodded, "All yours." They both began to move, maintaining a careful distance from each other. Theo held the door open for Daphne, and as she passed by, their eyes met once more, a fleeting connection that sent a jolt through him. He quickly looked away, his heart pounding.As Daphne walked past, her own heart was raced. She felt a mix of nervousness and something she couldn't quite place. The brief eye contact had been electric, leaving her both flustered and intrigued.Theo watched her go, the door closing softly behind her. He stood there for a moment, trying to collect his thoughts. The image of Daphne's shy smile and bright eyes lingering in his mind. Finally, he shook his head, trying to refocus, and headed into the shower. __________________ Walking down the grand stairwell of the Harrison mansion, Daphne couldn't help but pause to admire the foyer. She took a moment to herself to look around at the charm of the old home. Her heart fluttered with hopes and dreams she had been growing since she was a little girl. "One day," she whispered to herself. With a small nod, Daphne made her way down to the patio where the chef was serving breakfast and all the guests had arrived from their rooms. Emma greeted her with a warm smile and handed her a cup of coffee. "Where's Theo?" Daphne asked, looking around the table. "He's in the yard with the boys," Emma said. Daphne set down her coffee and walked to the steps leading to the lush green lawn and pool. She smiled as she spotted her six-foot-three 'boyfriend' swinging Reed around in his arms, the little boy's laughter echoing through the yard. The sight of Theo, so relaxed and playful, tugged at the smile on her lips. As she approached, Theo noticed her and gave a broad grin that made her heart skip a beat. Reed, still in his arms, squealed in delight as they twirled around once more before Theo gently set him down on the grass."Having fun?" Daphne asked, coming to a stop beside them. "Always," Theo replied, walking over to her. "Good morning." Theo cupped Daphne's face and placed a small kiss on her forehead. "Good morning," Daphne replied, a bit breathless. Wrapping an arm around her shoulders, Theo pulled her close. Together, they turned to watch Reed. For a moment, everything felt perfect. But the moment was short lived as Daphne looked up and caught Ava's eyes. Her smile faltered slightly as she noticed the girl standing a few yards away, her eyes fixed on Theo and Daphne with a look that was hard to read.Ava's presence brought back the reality of their situation, and the reminder that Daphne and Theo were only pretending. Ava's gaze was steady, almost probing, as if trying to decipher the nature of Daphne and Theo's relationship. Daphne's heart tightened, and she felt a pang of insecurity. She turned her head slightly, trying to shake off the unsettling feeling.Theo, still holding her close, didn't seem to notice Ava's scrutiny. He was focused on Reed, who was now running towards them with a toy firetruck, his laughter filling the air. Daphne tried to immerse herself in the moment, but Ava's stare lingered in her mind."What's wrong?" Theo asked, sensing her tension."Nothing," Daphne lied, forcing a smile. "Just thinking about something."Theo nodded, but his brow furrowed slightly as if he could sense there was more to her words. Daphne took a deep breath, trying to clear her thoughts. She knew she had to keep up the facade, especially around Ava. As Reed reached them, Theo knelt down to engage with him, giving Daphne a moment to collect herself. She glanced back at Ava, who was now talking to someone else, though her eyes flickered back to them occasionally.Daphne steeled herself, reminding herself she had a job to do. She reached down and ruffled Reed's hair, trying to focus on the here and now. As Theo stood up, she leaned and wrapped her arms around him before giving him a small kiss on his chest. "Ready for breakfast?" Theo asked, looking down at her. "Yeah," Daphne nodded. "I'm starving," Theo began. "You're always starving-" Daphne began to head back to the patio when suddenly Theo picked her up and placed her over his shoulder."Put me down!" Daphne immediately protested. Theo laughed as he spun her around as if she was Reed. He held her legs firmly against himself to secure her while walking over to the group. His eyes flickered toward Ava and he instantly felt a hundred times better seeing her eyes narrowed. He had never done anything like that with her. Daphne's protests turned into giggles as Theo carried her effortlessly. "Theo, seriously, put me down! This is so embarrassing!""Not a chance," Theo replied, his laughter mingling with hers. "I might make this a habit."As they approached the patio, the group turned to watch the playful scene, smiles spreading across their faces. Theo finally set Daphne down, her cheeks flushed from a mix of laughter and embarrassment. She swatted at him playfully. "You're impossible," she said, fixing her hair and pulling down her sweater. "Did that work up an appetite?" Theo asked. "We could go again." "Stop it!" Daphne stepped away, still smiling despite herself. She could feel Ava's eyes on them as they walked to the breakfast bar together, but instead of letting it unsettle her, she decided to embrace the moment. She linked her arm with Theo's, determined to make the most of their time together, even if it was all pretend."Pancakes?" Theo asked, handing her a plate. "No, thank you," Daphne looked down at all the food and her belly churned. "Eggs?" Theo pointed. "No..." "Fruits?" "Yes," Daphne smiled. "I'll have some fruits." Theo stepped aside, allowing Daphne to grab a few pieces of watermelon and grapes. "That's it?" Theo asked. "And a yogurt," Daphne held up the small cup of yogurt.Before Theo could comment, Daphne turned and walked back to the table. She sat down and made space for Theo as Nadia and Sue turned toward her. "You two are too cute," Nadia commented. "It must be the honeymoon phase," Sue teased. Daphne's cheeks flushed, "Thank you." "Enjoy it while it lasts," Emma added. "Once you're married and the kids come along, it's over." "Oh, I don't think they're ready for that yet, Em," Ava walked over to the table and joined in. She took a seat directly across from Daphne and offered her famous frosty smile. "It's still a budding romance. Let's not speak of marriage just yet." Daphne felt a chill run down her spine at Ava's words, but she managed a polite smile. "We're just enjoying the moment," she replied, glancing at Theo as he walked over to the table. "Ladies," Theo cleared his throat. "I hope you're not teasing my girl." "What if we were?" Emma challenged playfully. "Then I would be worried for your safety, Em," Theo laughed. He pulled back his chair and took a seat. "We were just talking about how cute you two were," Sue said. "That's all her," Theo pulled Daphne's chair closer and kissed her shoulder. "Pipe down the PDA, Silvano," Allen said coming up the stairs from the backyard. "We get it. You're in love." Daphne's heart squeezed and she stiffened. Theo felt the shift and patted her shoulder as if that would shake out the butterflies in her belly. "If I remember correctly, you and Nadia would practically have sex on the dinner table when you two first met," Theo joked. Nadia gasped, "Theo!" "You two were insufferable," Sam added. "One time Theo and James walked in on you two in Allen's dorm room." "Wasn't that the time Allen twisted his ankle trying to get off the bed and kick us out?" James asked. "Why he didn't lock the door before hand still boggles my mind," Theo laughed. "We were caught up in the moment!" Nadia said. Her husband walked around the table and went over to stand beside her. "And James you could not look at me for the rest of the semester without grinning like an idiot." "So the warning signs were always there, huh?" Theo said, his jaw clenching as he looked at James. The air grew thick with tension as the laughter at the table faded. James's smile faltered, and he glanced uneasily at Theo. The others exchanged nervous glances, sensing the shift in the atmosphere.James cleared his throat, trying to diffuse the situation. "It was all in good fun, right? We were just kids.""Yeah, sure," Theo replied, his tone edged with bitterness. A heavy silence settled over the group. Daphne reached for Theo's hand as she looked between him and James, feeling the weight of the unspoken history between them.Emma, sensing the need to intervene, quickly changed the subject. "Well, those were the good old days. We all have our embarrassing moments, don't we?"Nadia nodded, laughing nervously. "Absolutely. And we've all grown up since then, right?"Theo didn't respond, his eyes still locked on James. The tension was palpable, and even the lighthearted attempts to steer the conversation couldn't entirely dispel it. Ava, sitting across from Daphne, reached for James's hand. She tugged on his arm to gain his attention as Theo pulled Daphne closer and buried his nose in her hair, looking over her head toward the house. "Daphne," Nate's loud voice suddenly spoke up, fighting to break through the tension. "Tell us more about yourself. I feel like I hardly know the woman who tied down my best friend." Nate's comment drew everyone's attention to Daphne, providing a welcome distraction from the tension. Daphne's smile widened, and she leaned into Theo, feeling his warmth. "Well, if you must know," Daphne began, her eyes twinkling with mischief, "I'm an international spy. And Theo happens to be my latest assignment." The group laughed, the mood lightening immediately. Theo chuckled, nuzzling her hair. "Really?" Sam said, playing along. "Because I always knew Theo had a type." "Oh, absolutely," Daphne nodded. "He can't resist a woman with a mysterious past and a penchant for danger.""Sounds intriguing," Emma added, grinning. "So, what's your mission, Agent?""To keep him on his toes, of course," Daphne replied, winking. "And to ensure he never has a dull moment.""Mission accomplished," Theo said, his eyes filled with admiration. "She's definitely succeeded in that.""I had no idea we had a real-life action hero among us," Ava smirked. "Oh, I have many talents," Daphne laughed. "But my greatest one is keeping him in line," "That sounds like a full-time job," Sue commented, laughing."It is," Daphne agreed. "But someone's got to do it. And besides, he makes it worth the effort.""How so?" Nadia asked, curious."Well," Daphne said, pretending to ponder. "He's a great cook, always knows how to make me laugh, and he's not too bad to look at either."Theo laughed, shaking his head, "Flattery will get you no where." Daphne turned to look back at him, "I'm flaunting." Theo leaned forward, his nose brushing against her, "And you're doing a damn good job." "What's the score?" Daphne smiled, holding his gaze. "Ten out of ten," Theo said. "Hmm," Daphne's eyes flickered down to his lips. "Out of your league." "Hey, hey," Nate clapped his hands. "We have children in this household. Six feet apart you two." Daphne playfully pushed Theo back, "You heard him." Grinning, Theo pulled back. He couldn't take his eyes off of Daphne as she turned away to chat with Nadia. As breakfast continued, the lighthearted conversation flowed, but Ava's questioning eyes lingered on the pair, catching Theo's gaze ever so often. Her presence was becoming increasingly bothersome, and Theo had no intention of hiding the dislike on his face. Each time he caught Ava looking at him, his expression hardened, and he pulled Daphne a little closer, his hand resting possessively on her back.When breakfast finally came to an end, Ava made her way over to Theo, a determined look in her eyes. Theo braced himself, his jaw tightening as he prepared for whatever she had to say. But before Ava could get too close, Daphne appeared before him. "Are you okay?" She asked, tilting her head. "Yeah," Theo cleared his throat. He could still see Ava waiting over Daphne's shoulder. "I was thinking we drive down to the town. What do you say?" Daphne smiled, "Sure." Theo took Daphne's hand, pulling her gently towards the door. Ava's eyes followed them with an unreadable expression. She hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath and approached them."I was just going to ask if Daphne would like to join me for a game of tennis," Ava said, her voice smooth but tinged with an edge.Theo's grip on Daphne's hand tightened, his protective instinct kicking in. "Actually, we were just about to head out," he said, his tone firm.Before Ava could say anything else, Theo opened the door and walked Daphne out. He stayed silent as he held the car door open for her and then climbed into the driver's seat. Daphne watched him closely as they pulled out of the Harrison Estate. The sun was shining brightly as they cruised down the winding road that led to the small town, the engine humming softly beneath them. Theo's fingers gripped the steering wheel, his gaze occasionally flicking to Daphne beside him.Daphne was staring out the window, enjoying the change of scenery and the fall colors. The picturesque landscape, with its rolling hills and quaint farmhouses, offered a peaceful respite from the drama back at the mansion.Theo glanced at her, his expression softening as he took in her serene profile. "You seem to be enjoying this," he said, his tone light but sincere.Daphne turned to him with a smile. "It's nice to get away for a bit. I needed this."Theo nodded, the tension in his shoulders easing. He let out a sigh, his earlier frustration with Ava slowly melting away. "I'm glad. I just couldn't handle being around her right now."Daphne chuckled softly, the sound light and carefree. "I don't blame you. She's got a way of making things awkward.""One of her many hidden talents apparently," Theo said under his breath. As they continued their drive, Theo wanted to reach over and take Daphne's hand. But as soon as the idea came into his head, she shook it away. He held the steering wheel with both hands instead to make sure they didn't grown a mind of their own. After a few minutes, they pulled into the town, the charming streets lined with small shops and cafes. Theo parked the car and turned to Daphne."Do you want to explore a bit? There's a a really good baker here."Daphne nodded. "Sounds good." They stepped out of the car and walked side by side down the street, the quiet hum of the town a soothing backdrop to their lack of conversation. The earlier tension seemed to dissolve with each step, replaced by a warm, shared sense of peace. The simple pleasure of being alone, away from the pressures and expectations of their pretend play, was a welcome relief.Daphne followed Theo into the small bakery and watched him order a dozen cinnamon sugar donuts. She walked around as the lady behind the counter packed his order and chatted with him about remembering seeing him in the shop the previous fall. When he was done, Daphne smiled at the sweet old woman and followed Theo out. "Do you want to try a bite?" Theo asked, holding out the free donut the lady had gifted him. "No," Daphne's nose wrinkled. "A small bite," Theo insisted. "Please, stop," Daphne stepped away. "Daphne," Theo laughed. "Come back here and try a bite." "No, thank you," Daphne began walking away. She looked over her shoulder and shook her head as Theo continued to follow her, hounding her to try a bite. "Leave me alon-" "Ah!" A woman yelped. "Oh, I am so sorry!" Daphne turned to apologize but froze instantly. Her eyes widened in sudden recognition. She froze, her heart pounding in her chest, as she stared at Sarah standing just a few feet away. Sarah, looking unchanged from high school except for a more polished, confident air, turned and locked eyes with Daphne. The old, familiar anxiety surged within Daphne as Sara's gaze swept over her. "Daphne?" Sarah gasped. "Oh my god, hi!" Daphne's insides began to tremble, "H-hi." "What are you doing in Edenfield?" Sarah asked, her eyes slowly looking Daphne up and down as they ever so often did in high school. Daphne felt like she was being scrutinized all over again as if she were still the same vulnerable girl from their past. Her throat tightened, and she found herself struggling to breathe."Wow," Sarah flashed her plastic smile. "You still look the same. But your sense of style has definitely changed. Love the shoes." Daphne wanted to shrink and hide. Sarah's gaze felt too heavy. Daphne feared all her flaws and imperfections would start to bubble up to the surface if Sarah continued to stare. "Good to see you," Daphne managed to say, desperate to get away. "I have to go." "Wait," Sarah stopped her. "You have to meet my husband." "No, I really-" Suddenly, a tall figure came to stand beside Sarah. Daphne felt herself grow smaller in size as she realized it was Steven. The same Steven who couldn't lift her during their dance recital. This is not happening, Daphne wanted to throw up. "You remember Steven," Sarah said, placing her hand over his chest and showing off her giant ring. "Steven, do you remember Daphne from highschool?" "Daphne?" Steven arched his brow. "Daphne the duck?" Sarah laughed, swatting her husband's arm, "Stop it." Daphne could feel her eyes burning. She wanted to turn and run down the street until she was miles away from those two when suddenly Theo came to stand by her side. Instantly, his protective instincts flared as he noticed the tension in her posture. He squared his shoulders and addressed Sarah and Steven with a firm, confident tone. "Hi there. I'm Theo, Daphne's boyfriend."Sara's eyes widened slightly, her expression flickering between surprise and curiosity as she took in Theo's good looks."Nice to meet you," she said, holding out her hand. "Sarah. We went to high school with Daphne."She turned her attention back to Daphne, her gaze lingering with an unsettling familiarity. Daphne remained silent, her hands trembling slightly as she clung to Theo's. Her anxiety was spilling, and she struggled to maintain her composure. The conversation felt surreal, a blur of words and faces as her mind raced with old insecurities."Steven," Steven held out his hand. "Why do I feel like I know you?" "Theo Silvano," Theo smiled. "Silvano Landmark Developments." "Yes, of course!" Steven laughed, his demeanor shifting. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Silvano." "Please, call me Theo," Theo smiled. "Especially if you're an old friend of Daphne." Sarah's eyes moved from Daphne to Theo and then to her husband. "Theo's company owns the buildings for all of our offices in New York City," Steven explained. "Actually, I'm pretty sure they own half of Manhattan." "We're getting there," Theo laughed, putting his arm around Daphne. "Oh, I see," Sarah smiled. "How long have you two been dating?" Theo looked down at Daphne, "About a year, right?" "And still no ring?" Sarah teased. "What are you waiting for?" "Daphne wants to focus on her career," Theo said. "She has taken over our financial department. Her hands are full right now." "Oh, wow," Steven looked at Daphne. "Congratulations." "Thank you..." Daphne managed to whisper. "Well, it was very nice meeting you both," Theo cut in. "I hate to cut this short but I promised Daphne I would spend the afternoon shopping with her." "Sounds fun," Sarah said. "Nice to see you both." "Thank you," Theo began to pull Daphne away but Sarah suddenly stepped forward and pulled her into a hug. "It was so good seeing you," Sara said, her voice laced with a sickening sweetness. Daphne could barely hear the words over the rush of anxiety in her ears.Then Sara's voice dropped to a whisper, brushing against Daphne's ear. "We have to catch up over dinner so you can tell me all about how you managed to pull a guy like that."The whisper sent a shiver down Daphne's spine. The insinuation in Sara's voice, mingled with the overwhelming anxiety, caused her breath to catch in her throat. She could feel her hands trembling, and she struggled to maintain any semblance of composure.Theo's hand tightened on her back, a silent reassurance as he gently but firmly pulled her away from Sara's embrace. "Let's go," he said, his voice brooking no argument. He guided Daphne to the car with a comforting, steady presence.Daphne slid into the passenger seat, her movements mechanical. She stared out the window, the world outside blurring as her thoughts spun in a chaotic whirlwind. The encounter had drained her, leaving her feeling exposed and vulnerable. Theo closed the door gently and walked around to the driver's side, his face set in a determined expression as he started the car.As they drove away, Theo kept glancing over at Daphne, his concern evident. "Are you sure you're okay?" he asked softly. Daphne nodded, though her eyes remained distant. She looked down at the pink box of donuts on her lap and opened it. Theo watched her from the corner of his eyes as she took out one of the donuts and began to eat it. "It's good right?" He asked, hoping to get her talking. Theo's concern deepened as he observed Daphne's silent struggle. The cheerful atmosphere of the town had faded into an awkward tension, and now, in the privacy of the car, Daphne's distress was palpable. Theo watched her with growing worry as she methodically consumed the donuts, her movements mechanical, almost as if she were operating on autopilot.As they arrived back at the Harrison mansion, Theo tried to engage her, his voice soft and full of concern. "What's on your mind?" he asked gently.Daphne said nothing, but her eyes were distant, her gaze unfocused as she clutched the pink box of donuts. Theo's heart ached at the sight of her—she was visibly disassociated from the moment, lost in her own turmoil. She didn't meet his eyes as she slowly picked out another donut, her hands trembling slightly.Theo watched helplessly, feeling a knot of anxiety tighten in his chest. "How can I help?" he asked, trying to draw her into conversation, but his attempt to connect was met with a heavy silence. Daphne didn't respond. Instead, she continued to eat, her expression blank. When they reached the mansion, Daphne quietly excused herself and retreated to their room, seeking solitude. Theo followed her with his eyes. He wanted to comfort her, to understand what was going on in her mind, but he was unsure of how to break through the wall of silence she had erected around herself.
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