After hearing Patricia's words, Theo got to his feet and headed towards Ellinor.
Patricia watched him closely, secretly hoping that Theo would slap Ellinor.
Everyone in the room watched this unfold, wondering if Theo would hit Ellinor for Patricia.
Theo did reach out.
His large, rough hand gently brushed the loose strands of hair from Ellinor's forehead, his deep voice scolding, "Didn't I tell you not to wander off on your own?"
Ellinor frowned, "...I forgot."
Theo didn't say anything else. He took off his jacket and draped it over Ellinor.
The windows in the Howard family's kitchen were open, and the night breeze could give Ellinor a cold.
Ellinor glanced at the suit jacket now draped over her.
At this moment, that jacket was not just to keep her warm but also a sign of Theo's trust. No matter what happened, he would always stand by her.
Ellinor looked at Theo, whose gaze held no suspicion towards her.
She hadn't expected Theo to trust her like this because Patricia's performance had been too convincing. Plus, Patricia had once saved Theo, so he felt a sense of gratitude toward her.
Yet, Theo hadn't been swayed by his gratitude, which moved her.
She relaxed and leaned tiredly against Theo. "I'm tired."
"I'll take you home to sleep now." Theo seemed to comfort her, patting her head before leading her away.
To everyone's surprise, Theo appeared to be openly protecting a murderer.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Kiss that Sparked it All