Forbidden Passion

Chapter 158 Her Lips Involuntarily Curled into a Smile

As Phoebe shifted her gaze back to him, her voice took on a cutting edge of sarcasm. "Since you're not bothered, why are you here interrupting my shopping spree?"

Theodore responded with a smile so radiant it seemed to compete with the brilliance of the summer sun itself. He playfully reached out, gently pulling at the bottom of her shirt. "I wanted to see if you're still mad at me." "Mad?" Phoebe scoffed mockingly. "I wouldn't dare. If you're looking for an argument, I might as well continue my shopping indoors."

Just as she made to leave, Theodore caught her arm and pulled her back gently. He'd been rough a few days ago and intended to make amends. Like a scene from a teen drama, he hugged her from behind, a tender and romantic gesture to try and calm her.

Phoebe's heart skipped a beat involuntarily as she tried to wriggle free, but Theodore didn't leave her an inch of space to escape.

He rested his chin in the crook of her shoulder, softening his voice, "Can't we make up?"

It was probably the closest he'd ever come to showing vulnerability. His voice, warm and deep, held a reluctant command. Phoebe's struggle ceased.

as though it was soaking in water-tender

high school sweetheart. She can do no wrong,

she couldn't stop herself from complaining about all the injustice she was facing

said, "I promise not

always keep my word; don't you know that by now?" Phoebe felt her resolve wavering but

decisively chosen to leave behind. She had always prided herself on keeping her personal feelings separate from her professional life. No matter

in fact, he found them rather charming. To him, they signified that she was full of life and passion, a departure from the impassive stillness that had once defined her. Leaning casually against the wall,

"No, thank you.

I could interest you in

that won't