Chapter 22

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Eloise's heart ached as she couldn't bear the thought of returning home after the devastating revelation about Penelope. With a heavy heart, she whispered to her loyal footman, James, "Take me downtown, James. Anywhere but home."

Guided by the dimly lit streets, they soon arrived at the printing shop. Eloise's heart raced as she saw Theo closing up for the day. Without a second thought, she rushed towards him, tears streaming down her face. She wrapped her arms tightly around him, seeking solace in his comforting embrace.

Theo was taken aback by Eloise's sudden appearance and her evident distress. Concern etched on his face, he gently led her inside the shop. "Eloise, what's happened? Why are you crying?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine worry.

In between sobs, Eloise managed to share the painful events that unfolded over the past week. She poured out her heart, expressing her shattered trust and the deep betrayal she felt. Theo listened attentively, holding her close, providing a safe space for her to release her emotions.

As the tears continued to flow, Eloise found solace in Theo's presence. His unwavering support and understanding gave her a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. In that moment, she realized that she wasn't alone in her pain.

Theo's apartment upstairs offered them privacy, a sanctuary away from prying eyes. They climbed the stairs together, their hands tightly intertwined. Once inside, Eloise collapsed onto the couch, still overwhelmed by the weight of her emotions. Theo sat beside her, offering silent comfort.

In that intimate setting, Eloise continued to share her anguish, her voice trembling with raw vulnerability. Theo listened, his presence a beacon of strength. He held her hand, offering unwavering support and assuring her that he would stand by her side no matter what.

As the night wore on and Eloise found solace in Theo's embrace, a glimmer of hope began to flicker within her. Through her tear-stained eyes, she looked into Theo's earnest gaze, seeing the love and determination reflected in them.

Theo's voice trembled with a mix of emotions as he spoke, "Eloise, I can't bear to see you suffer any longer. I love you more than words can express, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?"

Eloise's eyes widened in surprise, her tears replaced by a mixture of joy and uncertainty. She took a moment to gather her thoughts, the weight of the decision before her feeling both daunting and exhilarating. But deep down, she knew that being with Theo was what her heart truly desired.

A smile slowly spread across her face as she replied, her voice filled with conviction, "Yes, Theo. I will marry you."

With their decision made, Theo's proposal took an unexpected turn. "Eloise, let's elope," he suggested. "I have been called to the bar, and there are still a few days before I need to start my new position. We can escape to your hometown, to my parents' home. They will provide us sanctuary until the storm calms down."

Eloise's heart raced at the thought of eloping with the man she loved, embarking on an adventure to find refuge and build a future together. With a renewed sense of courage, she nodded in agreement, knowing that this was the path she wanted to take. 

INTERDITE, Theo Sharpe Where stories live. Discover now