Chapter 758: Return Home

After ending the call, Theodore’s expression turned serious. As Oscar's childhood friend, he sensed the underlying sadness in their brief phone conversation; Oscar's voice had been choked with tears. Oscar, a tough man who rarely cried except for the deaths of his parents and brother, was devastated by the end of his marriage. Despite his efforts to reconcile with Hannah since their divorce, Theodore knew the loss of her affection was irreparable. It was a devastating blow for Oscar. The thought made Theodore sigh.

Manuel, lying on the bed, had overheard their conversation. Theodore had already explained the situation to him, so Manuel remained silent, understanding both Hannah and Oscar's perspectives.

"Manuel," Theodore said, "never get trapped in a relationship with a woman. See the pain it's caused Oscar? If he hadn't fallen for Hannah, he wouldn't be hurting now."

Manuel smiled wryly. "Feelings aren't rational," he said. "That's why they hurt so much."

"So he's leaving alone?" Manuel asked.

"Hannah drove him out," Theodore replied.

"She wouldn't give in," Manuel stated.

"But what choice does he have? What would you do?"

Manuel was unsure. "There's no better choice than what Oscar made," he admitted.

"He's shouldering it all alone," Theodore said. "I don't blame Hannah; I've seen her struggle. Putting myself in her shoes, I understand her pain."

Manuel nodded. "I wish time could wash away their emotions, both the grudges and the love."

"That's the only solution," Theodore agreed, then abruptly changed the subject. "You still love Susan, huh?"

Manuel was speechless.

"If you love her, will you suffer like Oscar?" Theodore asked worriedly. "Should I tell Oscar to assign someone else to your task?"

"No," Manuel said. "He assigned this to me after careful consideration. He's giving me the power to handle it my way."

Theodore considered this reasonable. Even with Oscar's privileged position, few were truly trustworthy. Rowan, a scheming enemy, had planted spies everywhere, monitoring Oscar's every move. Many of Oscar's employees were likely loyal to Rowan. Only Theodore and Manuel remained trustworthy.

"Thanks for your efforts," Theodore said sincerely.

Manuel smiled, a rare display of sentiment.

"There's no rush," Theodore said. "Oscar said recovery is the priority."

"I know."

"After Cian's death," Theodore continued, "we all face the fragility of life. People we spend our days with can be gone unexpectedly. It haunts me, and I imagine it haunts Oscar even more, considering his losses. Stay strong, Manuel."

Manuel nodded, slightly awkward at Theodore's emotional outpouring, yet touched nonetheless.

"Theodore, why don't you go home?" Manuel suggested.

Theodore's face fell slightly. "Am I annoying you?"

"No," Manuel said. "You haven't been home in a while. Don't you want to see your son? Family should come first."

Theodore realized he missed his son.

"Are you sure you're okay?" Theodore asked.

"Yeah," Manuel said. "Just scratches. A few days' rest and I'll be fine."

"Alright, then I'll go."

"Okay."

Theodore left, missing his son and Little Bunny.

He drove home. Laird had been assisting Oscar, seemingly more loyal to him than to Theodore. Reclaiming what belonged to the Wells family had been a significant undertaking, requiring constant vigilance. Little Bunny and their son were alone at home. The thought quickened his heart.

He entered the parlor, finding Little Bunny doing yoga in front of the television. Her form was graceful and captivating. She was so absorbed she didn't notice him until she turned.

Startled by his sudden appearance, Little Bunny felt awkward in her yoga pose. She quickly adjusted herself. To Theodore, however, she looked even more alluring.

"Finished with yoga?" he asked.

"Yeah," she replied, standing.

"Where's our son?"

"Sleeping with the nanny," she answered, feeling uneasy about his unexpected return, remembering their last encounter.

"Go take a shower," Theodore said, his gaze lingering on her sweaty body. If not for the servants, he would have undressed her there and then; even her sweat seemed intoxicating.

Little Bunny sensed what was coming.

Theodore went upstairs to his son's room. The nanny bowed respectfully.

"When will he wake up?" Theodore asked.

"In an hour, probably."

Gazing at his son's face, Theodore told the nanny, "Give me a few minutes. I want to be alone with him."

"Yes, Master Theodore."

Theodore climbed onto the bed, overwhelmed with paternal joy.