Tainted Love

Chapter Three [Dress]

Aster's pov

As Theo spoke my name, my face automatically twisted into a deep frown. It was as if every negative emotion I had towards him boiled to the surface.

And then, those words slipped from his lips "You've grown up." I could feel the tension in the air thicken, everything suddenly feeling awkward.

My mind couldn't help but wander back to a time when I looked up to this man as a hero. But now... all I felt was anger.

"You've grown up?" was that it?

"Happy Birthday..." Theo's voice trailed off, his words hanging in the air as he waited for a response.

I silently stared at him, refusing to open my mouth or give him the satisfaction of a reaction. Then, awkwardly, he added, "Hope you liked the gift."

Confused, my eyebrow raised, and I asked, "What gift?" My eyes followed his gaze as it dropped towards me.

The dress.

I was relieved to hear my Father call out my name, as it was a welcome distraction from the conversation with Theo.

The celebration was about to begin, and all I wanted to do was quickly extricate myself from this awkward encounter.

"I'm gonna go," I said, pushing past him with haste. All I wanted was to escape his presence, it's too awkward.

But then, he pulled me back by the wrist "Wait-" he paused for a second, "I'm sorry."

He was talking about what happened years ago, I tried to remain detached, pushing down the flood of emotions that threatened to overwhelm me.

He let go of my hand, and I hastily walked away. My mind swirled with a thousand thoughts as I made my way back to my family.

For them, the events of almost a decade ago were distant and long forgotten. But I could never forget. I knew it might seem odd to still be so affected by his absence, but really, can you blame me?

He was there for me when no one else was.

☆☆☆

After enduring conversations with our family's business partners, I felt completely drained.

Scarlett had already left an hour ago, and it was already past one in the morning, but the De Leon's were still going strong. Their conversations revolved around the restaurant, marriage, and their rival companies.

Seeking some peace and quiet, I found myself silently standing outside the restaurant, taking in the beauty of Spain. The unexpected appearance of Theo at my party was a surprise I hadn't anticipated.

It had been eight years since he had stopped attending any event associated with my father, at least that was what my mother told me.

I suddenly heard footsteps approaching, I looked up to find Theo standing beside me, his looming figure creating a shadow in the dim light.

"Mind if I join you?" he asked, his voice gentle and tentative.

I hesitated for a moment before responding, "Sure."

I continued to remain silent, watching him covertly from the corner of my eye. I longed to ask what had caused his departure, my curiosity gnawing at me. Suddenly, his voice broke the silence.

"Just ask," he said, his words causing my brows to furrow in confusion. How could he possibly know what was going through my mind? I finally looked up at him and saw a small smile playing at the corners of his lips.

"What happened between you and Dad?"

"Your father.. well he wasn't happy about your Abuelo's Decision." He paused and looked away, his gaze shifting to the cars passing by.

Dramatic...

"Papà wanted me to take over the Casa De Leon. Arthur thought it was unfair since he was older by a few years, he thinks he deserved it more."

I nodded, signaling for him to continue, my interest piqued.
"I would also think it's unfair, considering he's the biological son, not me," Theo said, his voice carrying a sense of resignation with it.

My eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, what do you mean?" I asked, my voice tinted with a touch of disbelief.

He met my gaze, his eyes steady and unwavering. "I'm adopted."

I know it's a bit boring for now but it's a slow burn for a reason, just be patient 😉 -Rory