Theodore’s support

The atmosphere crackled with a tension that snagged everyone's attention. Bella, mid-gaffe, stood frozen and watched him walk toward her, her jaws slacking apart. The annoyance that had simmered just moments ago vanished, replaced by a jolt of something far more complex.

Theodore's unwavering gaze held hers captive. His arm coiled around her waist and drew her in closer. The gesture sent a jolt through Bella, a confusing mix of emotions warring within her.

Claudia couldn't believe her eyes. The image she had witnessed earlier that night, Theodore leaving in a huff, had fueled a narrative of a brewing fight between the couple. But here he was displaying his affection to Bella as if nothing had happened.

It defied logic. If everything was truly harmonious between them, why had Theodore abandoned Bella alone earlier? The inconsistency gnawed at Claudia, her mind churning with unanswered questions. Had she misinterpreted the situation entirely?