Reputation's Bloom

Chapter 59. The Whole Damn Story

Chapter 59

Theo and Daphne

The soft strains of a classic waltz filled the air, the gentle melody weaving through the grand ballroom like a whisper. The warm glow of chandeliers bathed the space in golden light, casting a dreamlike ambiance over the couples gliding gracefully across the polished floor.

Theo held Daphne close as they swayed in time to the music. His hand rested firmly yet tenderly at the small of her back, guiding her effortlessly. Her maroon gown flowed around her like liquid elegance, and her cheeks flushed slightly as she caught him staring.

"You're staring," she said softly, tilting her head up to meet his gaze, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

Theo's dark eyes never wavered from hers, a quiet intensity flickering within them. He tightened his hold just slightly, drawing her closer. "I can't help it," he murmured, his voice low and rich, like velvet. "You look... breathtaking tonight. I've never seen anyone more beautiful."

Daphne's breath hitched, her heart fluttering at the sincerity in his tone. "Theo..."

"I mean it," he interrupted gently, his thumb brushing lightly against her waist. "The way you move, the way you light up a room— I can't take my eyes off you."

Her smile softened, her eyes shimmering with emotion. "You have a way with words, Theodore," she said, her voice light but trembling just enough to give her away.

He grinned, his lips curving in that signature way that always made her pulse quicken. "Only when it comes to you."

They continued to sway as the music built to a gentle crescendo, the world around them fading until it felt as though they were the only two in the room. Theo leaned down, his forehead brushing against hers. "Thank you for being here with me tonight," he whispered.

"Always," she replied, her voice barely audible but brimming with feeling.

For a moment, they simply held each other, the music and the magic of the night wrapping them in a cocoon of warmth and unspoken promises.

The soft glow of the chandeliers and the romantic waltz created an intimate bubble around Theo and Daphne as they swayed together. Theo's warm hand on her waist and the tenderness in his eyes made the rest of the world melt away—until a deep, familiar voice broke through the spell.

"Mind if I cut in?"

Daphne froze, her breath catching in her throat as she turned toward the source of the voice. Standing before them was an older gentleman, impeccably dressed in a tailored tuxedo, his gray hair and sharp features exuding a quiet authority. Her stomach twisted into knots at the sight of him. She knew him—too well.

"Of course," Theo replied politely, though his hand lingered on Daphne's waist for a fraction longer, his dark eyes flicking to her for reassurance.

Daphne forced a smile, masking the dread tightening her chest. "Theo, this is Mr. Donovan," she said, her voice wavering slightly as she gestured to the man. "Mr. Donovan, this is Theo Silvano."

"A pleasure," Donovan said smoothly, offering his hand.

Theo shook it firmly, his gaze steady. "Likewise."

Donovan turned his attention back to Daphne, his smile polite but holding an edge that sent a chill down her spine. "Shall we?"

Daphne hesitated, but before she could find an excuse, Theo gently released her. "I'll grab us something to drink," he said softly, brushing his thumb along her hand before stepping back.