Chapter 614:

Theo's declaration took his friend aback. With a rueful smile, the friend said, "Buddy, you've got it bad."

Theo managed a small, wistful smile. "You think I haven't tried to quit? Elyse isn't just on my mind; she's in my heart, pulsing through my veins." He paused. "I can't stop thinking about her. I miss her constantly—when I eat, before I sleep. She's become part of my daily routine. My only respite is when I'm buried in work."

His friend, surprised by Theo's intensity, grumbled, "Enough already. You sound like a modern-day Casanova, always talking about love. It's too much."

Theo sighed. "I wish I could be like you, untied, waking up with someone new each day. But that's not me. I have someone who occupies my thoughts."

His friend lightly punched him in the chest. "Now you're making me the bad guy to make yourself look good. I haven't fooled around in a long time. Don't spread rumors. We've all had our moments."

Theo took a sip of his drink and teased, "I heard your family's setting you up on blind dates. Do you think any high-society ladies want a guy with your history? If they dig a little, they'll find a treasure trove of escapades."

His friend clenched his teeth. "Mind your own business. I don't need your concern."

Meanwhile, Freda returned to her friend, who immediately asked, "What did you say to Theo?"

Blushing slightly, Freda said, "We chatted briefly. Then I asked him for the first dance, and he said yes."

Her friend's eyes lit up. "That's great! He must still care about you. Keep at it, and you'll win him back."

"Hope so. I'll do my best," Freda responded with a smile.

Glancing at her watch, Freda prepared to claim that dance.

Ten minutes later, it was time. Freda adjusted her dress and searched for Theo. She spotted him and approached with a smile. However, a short-haired girl emerged from the crowd, blocking Freda's path. Before Freda could react, the girl positioned herself in front of Theo and said, "You promised me the first dance. Let's go."

Freda watched, stunned, as Theo tenderly touched the girl's nose and said affectionately, "I haven't forgotten. Let's go dance." The girl linked arms with him, and they gracefully moved to the music.

Theo's friend, witnessing Freda's heartbreak, awkwardly turned away.

Freda was dismayed and puzzled. Hadn't Theo promised her the first dance? Why was he dancing with someone else? She wanted to confront him, to ask if there'd been a misunderstanding, or if he simply agreed to dance with anyone.

These thoughts made her gaze icy and stern. As she stepped forward, she collided with someone.

"Freda, what are you doing here?" Gavin exclaimed, surprised.

...