The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 405

Most of those who caught up in the heated discussion were women, including A-list celebs, influencers, and some high-born ladies from well-known families.

Their murmuring made Bartlett uncomfortable. He shot a disgruntled glance at the chattering crowd before turning to Ellinor with a softened voice.

"Ellinor, it's a madhouse down here. Let's go upstairs. I'll grab a towel for you to dry your hair."

"Alright, thanks."

Ellinor accepted Bartlett's offer, as she too didn't fancy being the topic of gossip. The noise was giving her a headache, so she followed Bartlett up the stairs.

On their way up, Bartlett gave Ellinor a side glance. His eyes, always filled with a smile, seemed to bear a thought. "Ellinor, where's Theo? Why'd he let you come in alone?"

Ellinor replied with a calm face, "He's outside, probably still fussing over his life-saver, Ms. Howard."

Bartlett detected a hint of bitterness in her seemingly nonchalant tone. "Oh? Are you two having issues over Ms. Howard?"

Ellinor remained stoic, "No, I understand Theo's concern for his life-saver. I'm not mad about that."

Bartlett found her rationality surprising, yet he wasn't completely convinced she was unperturbed. He scrutinized her for a moment before saying, "Theo's always been kind to Ms. Howard. In fact, before you came along, I thought they'd end up together."

Ellinor raised an eyebrow. End up together?

That was something lovers do. So, in Bartlett's view, was there an emotional history between Theo and Ms. Howard?

"I know Theo." Bartlett continued, "He might seem cold, but he's very upright. He surely appreciates Ms. Howard for saving his life. These years, his care, protection, and tolerance towards Ms. Howard have been beyond reproach; even I find it touching. But this may not bode well for his wife. After all, no woman wants her husband to care for another woman. Ellinor, it's normal if you're jealous."