Forbidden Passion
Chapter 271 She's So Adorable

Ruby exhaled a sigh, musing aloud, "Perhaps an unforeseen incident occurred within the confines of the private room, or maybe Phoebe's actions incensed Tompson, prompting him to alter his decision. Regardless, the current outcome is most favorable; it leaves us above suspicion." Vanessa, despite her lingering reluctance, found herself compelled to accept the situation."Has Theodore been a constant presence at the hospital these past few days?" Vanessa inquired, a surge of jealousy welling within her. Ruby offered a nod of confirmation. "Indeed, he's been steadfastly at Phoebe's side throughout her unconscious state."

Vanessa's lips curled into a sneer. "She's truly a fortunate woman. I regret that Tompson failed to eliminate her."

Ruby shivered at the sight of Vanessa's contorted expression, a clear sign of her spiraling descent into madness. Swiftly, Ruby moved to her side, placing comforting hands on Vanessa's shoulders. "Vanessa, regain your composure. We must maintain our decorum during this period to evade arousing Theodore's suspicions."

Vanessa closed her eyes, forcing herself into a semblance of calm."Has Tompson's assistant been taken care of?" Vanessa asked, changing the subject."Indeed, she was quite frightened following Tompson's incident. I offered her a sum of money, and she has since left Kedora," Ruby replied.

"That's a relief. And the staff member from QUEEN Entertainment? She won't divulge anything, will she?" Vanessa queried, pinching the bridge of her nose. They had begun managing the fallout from Tompson's incident. In truth, their only interaction had been with Tompson's assistant. Once she was dealt with, tracing anything back to them would prove challenging."Even if she attempts to implicate me, I'll manage the situation," Ruby assured her."Very well." Fortunately, Phoebe's unconscious state had lasted two days, affording them ample time to cover their tracks. Even if Phoebe were to launch an investigation, she would find no leads. It was a missed opportunity, and Vanessa still harbored resentment. However, she knew better than to act against Phoebe for the time being.Theodore returned bearing food, spotting Phoebe standing by the window. He set the food container on the round table and strolled over, unbuttoning his shirt. He had already removed his coat, which he now draped over her shoulders.

"Why are you standing here in the cold?" he asked, enveloping Phoebe's cold body in warmth.

She turned to look at Theodore. Had she not glimpsed her current disheveled state in the mirror moments ago, she might have met his gaze with poise. But the thought of her unkempt appearance prompted her to lower her head, hiding her face in the coat. "Don't look at me. I look terrible!" she protested. Theodore found her endearing in that moment. He gently tickled her chin, reassuring her, "I've been watching you for two days, and you're far from terrible. You're utterly adorable."

Phoebe recoiled from his touch, grasping his coat, pulling it up, and concealing most of her face, leaving only her eyes visible. "You're just trying to deceive me. I saw my reflection in the bathroom mirror; my face is swollen." Theodore gazed at her, his eyes brimming with amusement. "That's what makes you the cutest," he declared. Fearing she would remain upset, he took her by the wrist and guided her towards the round table. "You mentioned being hungry. Let's eat."

Phoebe offered no resistance and followed him to the table. Theodore released her, reached for the bag, retrieved the lunch box, and set the table. He then pulled out a chair and gestured for Phoebe to sit.

"Please, eat," he urged. Phoebe glanced at the spread before her, then at Theodore. She still had her face covered, feeling too unattractive, and didn't want him to see. "Why don't you step out for a while and return after I've finished eating?" she suggested.

Theodore shot her a glance and smiled. "Are you that self-conscious? Stop hiding. I've seen you in all kinds of states. Go ahead and eat."

Phoebe considered his words. He had indeed seen her in various unflattering situations before, so this one wouldn't be any different.With that, she began to eat. As Theodore watched her lower the coat, revealing her bruised and swollen face, a pang of pain tugged at his heart.