Chapter 17
Theo and Daphne
Theo leaned against his car, checking his watch for the third time in the past five minutes. The city lights glinted off the sleek black paint, and a cool late autumn breeze stirred the air. He looked up, his patience waning, just in time to see Daphne emerging from her building.
She was a vision in a beautiful purple dress that hugged her curves perfectly. Her hair was styled in an elegant updo, with a few loose tendrils framing her face. The soft glow of the streetlights accentuated her features, making her look almost ethereal.
Theo couldn't help but stare, his breath catching in his throat. Daphne noticed his eyes and smiled, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. Slowly, she did a little twirl, the skirt of her dress flaring out gracefully as she spun.
"Ta-da," she laughed, coming to a stop and facing him again, her smile widening.
Theo took a step forward, his eyes never leaving hers.
"Wow," he said, his voice soft. "Is this you flaunting?"
"Yep," Daphne laughed. "What's my score?"
"Out of my league," Theo smiled.
Daphne's cheeks flushed a delicate pink at his compliment, but she quickly tried to brush it off.
"Shall we?" She cleared her throat. "We have a long evening ahead of us. I already took a shot of vodka upstairs."
"If this is about my family-"
"If?" Daphne snorted. "Let there be no doubt in your mind, Theodore. This is definitely about your family. Especially, your mom. She is both terrifying and awe inspiring at the same time. How is that humanly possible?"
"She promised she would be nice today," Theo laughed.
"Why would she say that?" Daphne's eyes narrowed and then widened. "Did you say something to her?"
"I......may have noticed how nervous she made you," Theo said slowly. "And I......"
"Please don't tell me you told her to be nice to me," Daphne pleaded. "Please."
"It's not a big deal," Theo shook his head.
"It is a big deal," Daphne shoved his shoulder. "She was awarded the woman of the year by Emm Magazine. I want her to be nice to me because she likes me or because she wants to be nice to me. Not because you told her to be nice to me."
Theo chuckled, shaking his head as he opened the car door for Daphne. "I promise, it wasn't like that. She already likes you."
"Uh-huh," Daphne muttered, sliding into the seat. "Sure she does."
She watched him close her door and walk around to the driver's side. Once they were both in the car, Theo turned to face her.
"Listen, I know my family can be stressful," Theo began. "So, I have something that might help."
Daphne looked at him curiously. "What is it?"
Theo reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out an envelope. He handed it to her and watched as Daphne opened it. When the frown on her lips turned upside down and she began to smile, Theo threw his head back and laughed, the sound causing Daphne's insides to flutter as it filled the car.
"How did you know?" Daphne teased, holding up the big fat check.
"I thought it might calm your nerves a bit," Theo said. "How's my math?"
Daphne's eyes lowered to the zeros on the check and she nodded with approval, "I see you didn't take out any taxes."
"That's your problem with the IRS," Theo teased, putting the car in drive and speeding out of the drive way.
Daphne placed the check back in the envelope and stored it away inside her little Dior clutch. She looked up, her insides fluttered once again. She stared at Theo's handsome profile as they drove down the city streets. He looked every bit like a dark-haired prince in his suit and expensive watch. The ease and confidence with which he drove only added to the fluttering inside Daphne's belly. She took in a deep breath and quickly looked away before he caught her staring.
After a short drive, they arrived at the hotel and handed the car keys to the vale. Taking the glass elevator, Daphne and Theo rode it all the way to the penthouse venue. As they stepped off, Theo's hand found its way to her lower back, guiding her through the room.
"Who's the bride and groom?" Daphne asked, leaning back to whisper in Theo's ear.
"Do you see the blonde in the blue dress?" Theo pointed to a beautiful young woman. "That's the bride."
Daphne nodded.
"Come," Theo took her hand. "I'll introduce you."
Daphne followed Theo's footsteps as they made their way across the large hall toward the bride. Her eyes scanned the sea of faces, feeling confident for the first time in days since running into Sarah and Steven. She flashed her pageant smile as she floated across the dance floor with Theo. People turned to look at her, their gazes lingering on her stunning dress and beautiful smile. She noticed the admiring glances and felt a sense of pride in how she looked tonight.
But as they grew closer to where the bride stood greeting her guests, Daphne's eyes caught Ava's gaze.
Ava was standing near the drinks, her expression darkening as she noticed Theo and Daphne. The look of jealousy on Ava's face was unmistakable, but instead of making Daphne feel good, it sparked an unsettling feeling inside of her.
Daphne's confident stride faltered slightly as the unease settled in. Ava's intense stare made her feel exposed, and she couldn't shake off the feeling. Daphne glanced at Theo, who seemed oblivious to Ava's gaze, his focus solely on guiding her through the crowd.
As they reached the bride, Daphne forced herself to maintain her composure, but the knot of anxiety in her stomach tightened. The admiration from the other guests now felt like a double-edged sword, and the weight of Ava's gaze lingered heavily on her mind.
"Congratulations," Theo came to a stop before the blonde.
"Theo!" Evie's eyes widened and she instantly threw her arms around him. "Oh my god! You made it! How are you?"
Theo laughed, wrapping his arms around her protectively and lifting her off the ground for a second before setting her down.
"I wouldn't miss this for the world," Theo said, pulling back. "I am so happy for you."
"Thank you," Evie smiled, patting his arms as her gaze flickered toward Daphne. "Oh, hello! Hi!"
"Hi," Daphne stepped forward.
"This is Daphne," Theo said, putting an arm around her waist and pulling her to his side. "Daphne, this is Evie, the bride. God, that feels so strange to say."
"Congratulations," Daphne leaned forward as Evie and her hugged. "And it's so nice to meet you. Lily has told me so much about you."
"Thank you," Evie squeezed Daphne's hand. "I didn't have a chance to chat with Lily-bit for too long but she did mention you. I am so happy you are here. Theo, thank you for bringing her."
"Of course," Theo gave a simple nod. "Now, where is the lucky man?"
"He's......" Evie pushed to her tiptoes and began to scan the crowd. She looked to the left and then to the right before catching Levi's eyes staring directly at her from across the room. Noticing the way her smile slipped, Theo followed Evie's gaze to his brother.
"Ah, Levi," Theo rolled his eyes. "Why is he scowling now? It's always something."
"He's not very happy with me right now," Evie looked away from Levi's scrutinizing glare. "Harry!"
Theo and Daphne turned as a handsome man in a navy blue suit came dashing over to Evie.
"Yes, darling?" He asked, pulling her into his arm and kissing her cheek. "You called?"
"Yes," Evie chuckled, wiping the kiss off her cheek. "I want you to meet my big brother."
"Oh, yes, of course," Harry quickly removed his arms away from Evie and turned to face Theo. "Theodore, it's an absolute pleasure to meet you."
"The pleasure is all mine," Theo held out his hand. "Nice to meet you, Harry."
"Congratulations," Daphne chimed in.
"Thank you," Harry bowed his head before holding out his hand. "Harry."
"Daphne," Daphne shook his hand.
"You're one lucky man," Theo said. "Evie is an amazing woman. You have a gem."
Harry smiled as he looked at Evie, "She is remarkable."
"Thank you," Evie flipped her hair over her shoulder and curtsied.
"How did you two meet?" Theo asked. "I feel as if you came out of the left field and stole our Vivi girl from us."
Harry laughed, a warm, hearty sound. "It was quite the serendipitous meeting, actually. We met at a parliament rally in London. I was there to give a speech, and Evie was accompanying a friend. We started talking, and the rest, as they say, is history."
"Harry was incredibly passionate about his cause, and his speech was captivating. I couldn't help but be drawn to him," Evie added.
"It must have been quite the speech," Theo remarked, impressed. "What was it about?"
"Healthcare reform," Harry replied. "I've been advocating for better access to mental health services, particularly for young people. It's a cause close to my heart."
"That's really admirable," Daphne said, feeling a genuine respect for him. "And it's wonderful that you're using your platform for such an important issue."
"Thank you," Harry said, looking slightly humbled. "It's something I believe in deeply."
"Have you met Levi yet?" Theo questioned.
"Briefly," Harry replied.
"I'm surprised you two aren't best friends yet," Theo laughed. "I'm sure he has some ideas of his own about healthcare reforms."
"I told Harry no talk about politics tonight," Evie shook her head.
"Is that why Levi is sulking back there?" Theo looked over his shoulder toward his brother. "Oh, look. Mason is here."
"Yes! He just came in a few minutes ago," Evie said. "God, I haven't had a second to properly talk to anyone tonight."
"Relax, it's fine," Theo reached out and took Daphne's hand. "We can grab dinner tomorrow and catch up."
"Yes, please!" Evie nodded. "Harry and I would love that."
"I'll send you the details," Theo kissed Evie's head before turning to Daphne. "Come. I want to introduce you to my brothers."
"Have fun," Evie gave Daphne's hand one last squeeze. "Hope to see you tomorrow."
"Thank you," Daphne smiled as Theo began to guide her away. She stood glued to his side as they made their way across the room to where a pair of identical twins looked up. Daphne's eyes roamed over their handsome faces, shocked by how much they looked like their older brother.
"So nice of you to join us," Theo said, patting one of his brothers on the shoulder. "How was Ibiza?"
Mason, the chirpier of the twin, grinned, "I was having the best time of my life."
"Are you headed back after this?" Theo asked.
"No idea," Mason shrugged. "Might stick around now that Evie's back."
Levi, the brooding twin sulking in the corner, snorted. Theo and Mason looked over at their brother, wondering why he was acting extra crabby.
"Mason, this is Daphne," Theo introduced, keeping his eyes on Levi. "Daphne, this is-"
"Oh, Hell-O," Mason's grin spread. He stepped forward but stopped as Theo's hand blocked him.
"Watch yourself," Theo warned.
Mason chuckled, clearly not taking the warning seriously. He brushed off Theo's hand and approached Daphne.
"Nice to meet you," Mason took Daphne's hand and placed a kiss upon it before giving her a wink. "What is a stunner like you doing with this corporate robot?"
"Waiting until you came along, I guess," Daphne teased back with a wink of her own. "Nice to meet you."
Theo scowled, unimpressed by the two.
"I'm Mason and that ray of sunshine over there," Theo gestured to the corner, "is Levi. Levi, don't be rude. Come say hi."
Levi looked up, his expression softening slightly as he spotted Daphne and walked over.
"Hello," he said, his tone polite but distant. "Levi."
"Nice to meet you too, Levi," Daphne said, offering him a warm smile.
Levi nodded, his frown ever present on his face as he turned his attention to Theo.
"So, are we going to just pretend that this isn't weird as hell?"
"What are you talking about?" Theo asked, his brow furrowing.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about," Levi muttered, his disapproving eyes moving back to Harry. "Look at him. A complete stranger."
Mason rolled his eyes. "Levi, can you not bring down the mood for once? We're here to celebrate."
"Celebrate what?" Levi retorted. "She has no idea what she's doing."
"Guys, can we not do this right now?" Theo said, exasperated. "Daphne doesn't need to see this."
"It's fine," Daphne said softly, placing a hand on Theo's arm. "I'm going to grab us a drink."
"No, you don't have to go," Theo shook his head.
"It's okay," Daphne rubbed his arm. "I'll be right back."
Theo sighed but nodded.
Leaving him a small smile, Daphne made her way to the bar, weaving through the crowd with a graceful determination. The lively hum of conversations and laughter filled the air. The guests chatted and mingled as champagne flowed as the rivers and the scent of flowers hung like clouds about the grand hall. Daphne ordered herself and Theo a drink at the bar and paused for a second to take in the decorations. Her eyes scanned the flowers and candles when a particular discussion caught her attention.
A group of well-dressed men stood nearby, engaged in a lively debate about recent business news. Daphne's ears perked up at the mention of the controversial merger that had been making headlines. She couldn't help but eavesdrop, leaning in slightly to catch more of their conversation. The bartender was busy mixing drinks, so she had a few moments to listen in.
"I don't see why everyone's so up in arms about it," one man said with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Trident is making a smart move, consolidating power."
"Exactly," another agreed, nodding vigorously. "It's just business. People need to stop being so sentimental."
Daphne felt her irritation rise, her expression subtly shifting to reflect her disapproval. Her nose scrunched up as the men's casual dismissal of the broader impacts of the merger grated on her. She firmly believed the deal would create a monopoly that could harm small businesses and consumers. But she bit her lip, contemplating whether to say something or keep her opinions to herself.
As she continued to listen, lost in her thoughts, she didn't notice Daisy approaching until she was right beside her.
"You don't agree with them?" Daisy's voice broke through Daphne's reverie, calm but curious.
Startled, Daphne turned toward Daisy standing next to her, studying her with an intrigued expression. Her eyes widened and her heart bolted out of her chest.
"I...." Daphne's mouth felt dry as she tried to gather her thoughts, her head beginning to spin under the pressure of Daisy's intense gaze. She struggled to find her voice, feeling the weight of Daisy's expectations pressing down on her. "No......Not at all. I think their perspective is... shortsighted."
"How so?" Daisy inquired, her tone both curious and expectant.
Daphne took a deep breath to steady herself, "The merger they're talking about might make sense from a purely financial standpoint, but it's going to have significant negative consequences for smaller companies and consumers. It's not just about consolidating power; it's about the ripple effects it will have on the entire industry."
Daisy nodded thoughtfully. "That's an interesting point. Theo didn't mention you had such a knack for business. He just said you liked shoes."
Daphne smiled slightly. "I minored in ethical practices and corporate responsibility in college."
The bartender handed Daphne the drinks, and she took them with a grateful nod, her fingers brushing against the cool glasses. She glanced back at Daisy, who watched her with a softened expression.
"It's refreshing to hear someone speak with such conviction," Daisy said, her tone genuine and encouraging. "You should share more of your thoughts with Theo instead of letting him think you can only hold a conversation about shoes."
Daphne's smile wavered slightly, a mix of surprise and embarrassment coloring her cheeks.
"You don't need to pretend to be a dumb pretty girl," Daisy continued, her voice firm yet kind. "Own your intelligence and be proud of it."
Daphne's heart skipped a beat. She nodded, her eyes meeting Daisy's as she stood holding the two drinks in hand with her eyes wide open.
"Thank you," Daphne nodded. "I'll keep that in mind."
Daisy's smile widened, and she gave her a reassuring pat on the arm before turning to rejoin the party. Daphne watched her walk away, feeling a wave of shock and disbelief take over her system. She turned back to the bar and set the drinks down to steady herself.
I can't believe that just happened, Daphne laughed, her mind still in complete shock. Daisy Silvano..... Daisy motherfuckin' Silvano just called me intelligent.
She shook her head, trying to shake off the lingering shock. With a slight, incredulous laugh, she placed the drinks back on the bar, her hands momentarily steadying herself against the polished surface.
Just then, as Daphne attempted to compose herself, she saw Ava approaching from the corner of her eye. Daphne's gaze narrowed instinctively, her previously cheerful mood now tainted by Ava's mere presence. She tried to keep her composure, but the shift in her demeanor was palpable. Daphne braced herself, the earlier surge of confidence now mingling with a renewed sense of apprehension.
"Hello, Ava," Daphne said, her voice smooth as she picked up the drinks again.
Ava's smile was polished but didn't reach her eyes, creating a thin veneer of civility over the underlying tension.
"Nice to see you," she said. "Did I just see you talking to Mrs. Silvano?"
"Yes," Daphne replied, trying to keep her composure.
"Isn't she just the best?" Ava gushed. "I love her. She's like my best friend. She always says I'm the daughter she always wanted."
Daphne's lips twitched as she considered Ava's words.
"She already has a daughter," she said, her tone edged with subtle emphasis. "A very beautiful and smart daughter."
"You've met Lily?" she asked, a note of surprise in her voice. The smile on her face faltered slightly, the briefest hint of discomfort flashing across her face. Daphne nodded, feeling a subtle thrill of satisfaction as Ava shifted her weight.
"I've met the whole family," she said, her voice steady and measured.
"That's nice," Ava said, her composure slightly rattled. "The twins are amazing. I'm sure they're bummed I broke up with Theo. Although, I'm sure Mason is happy. Isn't he such a flirt?"
Daphne could sense the shifting dynamics in the conversation. Ava's attempt to maintain control was evident, but Daphne wasn't about to let her make it easy. The mention of the twins and Mason felt like a strategic play, aimed at reasserting her place in Theo's past. Daphne's eyes narrowed slightly, but she kept her expression neutral, carefully balancing her response.
"I thought Theo broke up with you because you slept with one of his closest friends?" Daphne tilted her head.
Ava's smile faltered, her eyes narrowing in response to Daphne's pointed question. For a moment, the facade of casual conversation slipped, revealing a flicker of anger. But Ava quickly masked it with a smooth, albeit strained, smile.
"Oh!" She laughed, ignoring Daphne's question. "I almost forgot to tell you. Guess who I ran into the other day at brunch."
"Who?" Daphne asked.
"Devon!" Ava continued to laugh but her eyes were pinned on Daphne. "We had the most interesting conversation."
"I'm sure," Daphne flashed her a tight smile. "Now, if you'll excuse me-"
"He mentioned this really interesting business," Ava stepped in front of her, blocking her path and carrying on as if they were the greatest of friends. "Girls who get paid to go on dates with wealthy men."
Daphne's heart skipped a beat as Ava's words cut through the ambient noise of the party. Her smile faltered, and a ripple of unease ripped through her. Her mind raced as she tried to piece together Ava's intentions.
Was she hinting that she knew about Daphne's secret?
Ava's gaze was unwavering, her eyes sharp and assessing. The veneer of friendliness in her tone masked an underlying challenge, making Daphne's discomfort even more pronounced.
"I'm sure that's quite the business," Daphne said, clearing her throat.
Ava's smile widened, but it didn't reach her eyes.
"It's so interesting." She paused, letting her gaze linger on Daphne. "You know, I was quite intrigued by the whole concept. It's fascinating what some people would do for money."
Daphne felt a wave of anger wash over her. Her pulse quickened and she gripped the drinks in her hand. She forced herself to breathe deeply, trying to steady her nerves. The conversation was veering dangerously close to the edge of her secret, and she needed to deflect without drawing too much attention.
"I would love to sit and chat with you about this, Ava. But Theo is waiting and you know he doesn't like to be kept waiting," Daphne said, her tone deliberately casual.
"Enjoy yourself," Ava stepped aside. "Handling Theo is truly a full-time job."
And with that, Ava walked away. Daphne exhaled slowly, trying to shake off the unease and knot in her belly. She couldn't help but wonder if Ava's probing was a sign of something more ominous. She took another sip of her drink, attempting to calm the sudden storm of anxiety brewing inside her.
As she approached Theo, he looked up and immediately frowned, seeing her expression. He took one of the drinks from her hands and set it aside.
"What's the matter?" He asked.
Daphne looked up, her mind still railing from her conversation with Ava, "Would you like to dance?"
Theo chuckled, his eyes narrowing at the sudden request. "Sure."
Daphne nodded and placed her drink on the table. She took Theo's hand and led him to the dance floor. Turning to face him, she placed her hands on his shoulders and waited for him to put his on her waist.
"You want to tell me what's on your mind?" Theo asked, his voice a low murmur as he tried to keep the conversation private amid the bustling crowd.
Daphne's gaze darted around the room, her eyes finally landing on Ava, who was watching them intently from the edge of the dance floor. The sight of Ava's cold, calculating stare sent a shiver down Daphne's spine.
"Ava's onto us," Daphne said, her voice barely above a whisper, her tone laced with tension. She tried to keep her face composed, but the unease was evident in her eyes.
"What?" Theo's brow furrowed in confusion and concern. His grip on her waist tightened slightly, but his focus remained on Daphne.
Daphne nodded, her gaze shifting back to Theo as she explained, "She said she ran into Devon and they talked about girls who get paid to go on dates. It felt like she was hinting at something." She shuddered, her words tinged with frustration. "She's a slithering snake."
Theo's expression hardened. "She's not smart enough to make the connections."
"I wouldn't underestimate a jealous woman," Daphne warned, her anxiety evident in her voice. "She's crafty and vindictive."
Theo took a deep breath, his jaw clenched as he tried to think through their predicament. He glanced over Daphne's head, his eyes focusing on the night sky visible through the venue's large windows.
"So then what do you propose we do?" Theo asked, turning his gaze back to Daphne.
"I don't know!" Daphne hissed, frustration evident in her voice. "Think of something."
Theo paused in the middle of the dance floor, his sudden stillness drawing a few curious glances from the other guests. The swirling lights and lively chatter of the celebration continued around them, but in their little bubble of tension, everything else seemed to fade away.
"Is she looking at us?" Theo asked.
Daphne's gaze shifted to Ava and she nodded, "Yes."
Theo took a deep breath, trying to steady his thoughts.
"Alright," he said, his voice low and resolute.
Daphne's brows furrowed, "What ar-"
Theo's hand on her waist tightened and he pulled her closer. Daphne let out a silent gasp as their bodies collided. Theo's gaze locked onto hers. The lively chatter and the rhythm of the music seemed to fade as his focus narrowed. He could feel the heat of Daphne's body close to his, her breath mingling with his. His hand raised to touch the edge of her face, pulling her closer. The movement was slow, deliberate, a silent promise of what was about to happen.
Daphne's eyes widened slightly. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest as she tried to remain composed.
"Think it through," her voice broke the tension, her words barely a whisper.
Theo's hesitation was palpable. He glanced briefly at Ava, who was watching intently from the edge of the dance floor. His jaw tightened as he weighed his options. He had to make a decision.
Daphne tried to swallow the lump in her throat. Her chest tightened and her belly fluttered. She let out another silent gasp as the proximity intensified, her senses overwhelmed by the closeness.
"Ten thousand dollars," Daphne reminded Theo, her voice a whisper. Her eyes settled on Theo's mouth as he spread his hand against her face.
Theo's lips hovered just inches from hers. The world around them seemed to blur as he leaned in, his intention clear.
"Are you sure about this-"
Daphne got her answer as Theo closed the gap between them and captured her mouth. His lips brushed against Daphne's, their proximity charged with an electrifying current. The surrounding party seemed to dissolve into a distant hum, leaving only the two of them in a suspended moment. Theo's hand slid up to cradle Daphne's face, his fingers warm against her skin.
Theo's kiss was consuming. His lips pressed firmly against hers, the intensity of the kiss taking both of them by surprise. The softness of Daphne's lips met the urgency of Theo's, creating a collision of unspoken words.
As the initial shock wore off, Daphne melted into the kiss, her body responding instinctively. Her hands found their way to Theo's shoulders, gripping him tightly. The world around them ceased to exist as their kiss deepened.
Theo's hand, now firmly against Daphne's face, guided her with a gentle yet commanding touch. His kiss was a mix of urgency and tenderness, exploring and claiming with a fervor that left both breathless. Daphne's heart raced, her breath coming in short, ragged gasps as she lost herself in the moment.
The moment seemed to stretch on, each second magnified by their growing need to keep the kiss going. With great effort, Theo pulled back, his eyes opening as he laid his eyes upon Daphne. He stood close enough to still feel the lingering warmth of her breath. Daphne, equally overwhelmed, struggled to regain her breathing, her chest rising and falling rapidly.
They parted just enough to catch their breath, their foreheads resting together, the current still echoing between them. The noise of the party returned with a distant buzz, but for a brief, perfect moment, it was just Theo and Daphne, lost in their own world.
After some time, as their breathing slowed, Theo's gaze flickered toward the edge of the dance floor. His eyes scanned the crowd, searching for Ava. When he spotted her, he saw her eyes locked onto them with a look of surprise and something that almost resembled rage. Theo's expression shifted to a relieved smirk.
"It worked," Theo said softly, his breath still mingling with Daphne's.
Daphne blinked as her heart sank to the pit of her stomach. The bubble she had been floating in for a moment seemed to dissipate, replaced by an unsettling realization.
Feeling a surge of disappointment, Daphne took a step back, her eyes avoiding Theo's.
"I need a drink," she said, her voice a touch unsteady and her hand on her belly. Without waiting for a response, she turned and made her way toward the bar.
I think it's hilarious that you guys are collectively indulging in Levi's misery :P