Cheated Once Cherished Forever: The Billionaire's Bride novel Chapter 111

Isabella curled up in Theodore's arms, shrinking into the crook of his elbow. Wrapped in his familiar scent, she finally felt safe and steady.

"Theodore, is everything even now?" she asked in a tiny voice that was barely above a whisper.

Theodore froze mid-step and looked down. He couldn't see her face clearly, but he knew she had to be hurt, scared, and crying. His chest tightened as if a thousand needles had pierced it. He hoisted her up a little, buried his face in her hair, and kissed her gently.

"It's all even now," he said. "From now on, I owe you. Bella, since you've helped me repay Queenie's debt, let me spend the rest of my life repaying you, okay?"

Isabella blinked at his hoarse voice, then looked up slowly. When she saw that his eyes were rimmed red, she froze. Was he… crying?

He was crying. Why was he crying? Was it because he had to cut ties with Queenie?

"Theodore, are you reluctant to let Queenie go?" she asked.

He shook his head. "She did something wrong and deserves punishment. Bella, the fact that you were willing to spare her from legal punishment and let her walk away for my sake was the biggest mercy she could get."

So… he was crying because of Queenie, after all.

"Mr. Sinclair," Caleb suddenly called out.

"Mr. Sinclair, Ms. Moore," Emma added.

"Ms. Collins, Caleb," Isabella greeted.

Theodore began issuing orders. "Don't keep those two inside."

Caleb stiffened and replied, "Understood, Mr. Sinclair."

Theodore continued, "Emma, stay with Queenie for the next few days. Don't let her do anything reckless. When the time comes, make sure she leaves right away."

"Alright, Mr. Sinclair."

Both of them acknowledged and went off to carry out their orders.

She shook her head.

He said softly, "Don't be afraid. I didn't want you to know before because I didn't want you to see how ruthless I can be. But Isabella, trust me, my methods will never be used against you."

He opened the glove compartment, took out a dagger, and handed it to her.

She froze, afraid to take it. He pushed it into her hand. "This dagger was custom-made for you. Be careful with it, and don't cut yourself."

She was confused. "Why are you giving me this all of a sudden?"

He answered, "I know you worry and feel unsafe. Keep this dagger. If I ever do something unforgivable to you, you can use it on me."

She frowned. "No… I wouldn't."

He insisted and said seriously, "Keep it. If anything like today ever happens again, take it out. Don't hold back, even if it costs a life. I'll take care of the rest. Just make sure you protect yourself."