Forbidden Passion

Chapter 23 Torn between two realities

A gust of wind rushed by Phoebe as Theodore strode past her, moving with such speed that she was knocked to one side.

Already frail, Phoebe stumbled back against the rough bark of a tree, a sharp pain shooting through her back.

Her complexion grew even paler as she steadied herself against a willow, only to look up and see Theodore crouching in front of Vanessa. Phoebe watched the scene unfold with a cold detachment, feeling like a fool out of place.

Vanessa was manipulative and deceitful, but it was effective. Seeing Theodore's worried expression, Phoebe knew she was utterly defeated. "Theodore, it hurts so much," Vanessa whined, seemingly fragile and petite in his presence, far from the dazzling force she portrayed to the world. And the man fell for it every time.

A sharp stone had cut her palm, blood gushing forth a slight furrow of her brow enough to elicit his sympathy.

"Just hang in there, I'll take you to the doctor."

He helped Vanessa to her feet and, glancing at Phoebe standing coldly aside, he said firmly, "Go back to your room, I'll come to check on you later." Phoebe turned away, ignoring his words.

left with Vanessa that Phoebe let out a derisive laugh. She turned and

few steps later, she stopped at the sight of pristine black

she saw

as she asked wearily, "What are you doing

accident in the pool and came to see you. You're very pale, Phoebe. Let me take

black suit, his tall and lean figure exuded an understated elegance, his eyes

handsome, and undeniably distinguished, just his presence displayed an air of

walk,"

jacket and draped it over her shoulders as

she began to remove the jacket to hand it back, but Edward gently pressed her

and her eyes warmed unbeknownst to

The setting sun filtered through the buildings,

three years, this was the first time he had walked shoulder to shoulder with Phoebe

our high school's class president, Zach? He just tied the