Chapter 1175: Progress

Little Bunny wasn't sure why, but as she listened to her agent, her heart quickened. Unfamiliar emotions stirred within her, but she didn't dwell on them.

The car arrived at Theodore's upscale villa as the agent continued her chatter. Exiting the vehicle, the agent reminded Little Bunny, "Treat him well. He'll be a valuable ally."

Little Bunny herself wasn't entirely clear on her reasons for staying with Theodore. Was it a compromise she couldn't refuse? Gratitude for his help saving Addison? Or a willing choice?

Regardless, she felt a genuine devotion to Theodore and hoped for a harmonious relationship. Past reasons no longer mattered.

Theodore returned late from a dinner party. The house lights illuminated Little Bunny curled asleep on the couch. Though the house wasn't cold, sleeping uncovered risked a chill.

Didn't she know how to use a blanket while watching TV? he wondered, mistakenly assuming she'd fallen asleep during a variety show still playing on the screen.

Feeling slightly dizzy, he moved cautiously to avoid waking her. He bent to lift her, but Little Bunny's eyes snapped open.

Theodore instinctively recoiled, his past experiences with her disdain making him hesitant. But Little Bunny reached out, taking his hands in hers—icy cold, uncovered by any blanket.

Theodore frowned, instantly enveloping her hands in his. "Why are your hands so cold?"

"I fell asleep waiting for you," she murmured, gazing at him.

"Next time, use a blanket while watching TV," he said.

"Okay," she nodded, then asked, "Have you eaten dinner?"

"You haven't eaten?" he replied.

"I ate earlier," she said.

"I had dinner and some wine," Theodore said. "Best to get to bed early."

"I'll run you a bath," she offered.

Before Theodore could respond, she hopped off the sofa and disappeared into the room. He didn't try to stop her. He didn't need her to cater to him; a normal life, like any other couple, would suffice.

Theodore followed her into the bedroom. After removing his tie and suit jacket, Little Bunny emerged from the bathroom, picking up his discarded clothes. "You can go," she said.

Theodore watched her, then entered the bathroom. The massage function of the tub soothed his weary body. The warmth eased his fatigue, and the wine induced drowsiness. Suddenly, he felt someone slip into the tub. Opening his eyes, he saw Little Bunny beside him, nude and blushing.

Damn it.

Despite his exhaustion, his body reacted forcefully, startling him. Overwhelmed by desire, he heard Little Bunny whisper shyly, "I allow you."

His desire surged. Even if Little Bunny was hesitant, he couldn't restrain himself, pressing her against the tub.

The night in the bathroom was passionate and unrestrained.

Returning to bed, exhaustion claimed them both. Theodore fell into a deep sleep, only to be roused by Little Bunny rising. He watched her slip away.

She must be showering, he thought ironically, turning over to resume his fitful sleep.

Later, Little Bunny returned. He feigned sleep, but she called out, "Theodore, are you asleep?"

He opened his eyes to meet hers.

"I made some honey-sweetened soup," she said. "It's soothing; you might be uncomfortable otherwise in the morning."

Theodore was deeply touched. No one had ever shown him such care. His father had cared little, as long as he survived.

He took the soup, the sweet taste stinging his eyes.

"Is it good?" Little Bunny asked eagerly.

"Yes, I love it."

"I made it for the first time," she said proudly.

"Want some?" he asked.

"You go ahead."

"Let's share," he insisted, spooning some for her. They ate like a couple.

He mused that if they could always be this happy, it would be perfect. Her love would make it even better.

"Little Bunny, I'll treat you well," he murmured softly.

Her heart pounded. "I know," she replied.

"My father's turning sixty-five on Saturday," he said casually. "If you're free, we could celebrate. He prefers a small gathering of close friends. I've invited Oscar and Manuel."

His nonchalance masked his nervousness.

"Okay," she replied instantly, unconcerned about potential work conflicts; her agent often accommodated her.

"Great!" He exhaled, relieved. "It's late, let's sleep."

Back in bed, Theodore held her close, inhaling her scent. For now, it was enough.