Forbidden Passion

Chapter 207 Can't You Just Leave Me Alone?

Phoebe made her exit from the sunroom, her steps unceasing until she was safely out of Mrs. Reynolds' watchful gaze.

The elderly woman observed Phoebe's retreating figure until it vanished from sight, then let out a sigh. Heavy with conflict, her heart ached for her granddaughter-in-law, yet she couldn't bring herself to be overly harsh on her grandson. She had chosen to let them work out their issues independently, a decision she was uncertain was right or wrong.

*

Phoebe traced a path down to the lakeside. In Kedora, the sunset always arrived prematurely due to its time zone. The sun, now a glowing amber orb, hung low between the hills.

Her slender figure was exaggerated by the setting sun as she stood by the water's edge. The lake's shimmering surface mirrored the fading daylight. The lilies had wilted, and she found herself wondering what had held Theodore and Vanessa's attention for so long the previous night.

After standing until her legs grew numb, she finally allowed herself to sit on the cool grass by the water's edge.

turn to look. Hugging her knees, she spoke with a hint

a moment before settling down

neck were visible against her fair skin. They both remained silent, watching as the sun disappeared

swiftly and extended

down to take her hand, but she skillfully evaded his grasp. Her voice was laced with annoyance, "Can't you just

hand froze mid-air; he clenched his jaw, and through gritted teeth, he retorted,

around, her eyes ablaze as she confronted him. "Theodore, aren't you tired of juggling two women? You like Vanessa, don't you? Go find her and stop wasting

not getting rid of me," Theodore shot backwith icy cruelty. Phoebe was seething, biting

suddenly succumbing to the darkness, and she stumbled trying

Phoebe realized she was in his embrace and struggled once more, "I don't want you to hold me, put me down!" Her resistance deeply wounded Theodore's