Ida rolled down her window, giving the smoke-filled car a breath of fresh air.
âIf youâre looking for a fling, Iâm game. But if youâre thinking of settling down, well, you better find yourself another lady.â Her tone was very assertive.
âBut I want you!â Byran insisted.
He couldnât wrap his head around this.
Typically, it was the woman who was eager to tie the knot, fearing that the man might lose interest or dodge responsibility. But here he was, with Ida flipping the script.
âMy life plan never included marriage. You picked the wrong gal, pal.â Ida said nonchalantly.
Frowning, Byran decided to compromise. âFine, no marriage. But letâs at least date for a lifetime; no seeing other people.â
Ida eyed Byranâs serious expression. âDonât be naive.â
Byran insisted. âIâm serious, I., Before he could finish, Ida stubbed out her cigarette, got out of the car, and walked off. She had spotted Theo and Ellinor stepping out of the police station.
Byran, left hanging, huffed, and followed suit.
Belinda was the first to rush over to Theo and Ellinor. âIâm so glad you two are okay!â
Chase trailed behind, looking at Ellinor with concern. âBoss, are you done with the questioning?â
Ellinor nodded. âYeah, all sorted.â *
Chase sighed in relief and chuckled. âThatâs good to hear. So are you heading home with us or with Mr.
Blanchet?â
Just as Ellinor was about to respond, Balfour stepped out of his car and firmly stated, âSheâs coming home with me.â
After reaching Ellinor, Balfourâs demeanor softened. âEllinor, you must be tired. Letâs go home and rest.â
T Ellinor nodded towards Balfour, ready to leave with him. But then Theo reached out, gently pulling her towards him. âIâll take her.â
Balfour ignored Theo, waiting for Ellinor to make her decision.
Ellinor shook her shoulder lightly, breaking free from Theoâs hold, and declined. âMr. Blanchet, you neednât bother. Youâve had a rough couple of days chasing criminals. Go home and rest.â
Theo sighed slightly as he pleaded softly. âIâm not tired; let me take you home.â
Ellinor shook her head firmly. âTheo, come find me when youâve settled your issues. Until then, I wonât go with you.â
With that, she walked over to Balfour. âMr. Howard, letâs go.â
She got into Balfourâs car.
Theo understood that he hadnât sorted out his issues and therefore had no right to cling to her.
He told Balfour seriously, âPlease take good care of her for me; Iâll be very grateful.â
Balfour retorted without hesitation. âLooking after her is my responsibility as her brother, and Iâm more than happy to do so. But if you cause her any more pain or danger, the Howard family will take action.â
With that, Balfour turned and got into his car.
In no time, the car drove off.