Chapter 250

The crowd speculated endlessly about Theodore's feelings for Sophia.

No matter how many times he explained it was simply because he adored little Lucas, no one believed him. They all assumed he was laying groundwork to become the boy's stepfather someday.

"An emergency at the office?"

Mrs. Orlando pressed again.

Theodore remained impassive. "Yes, Mother. I should go."

"You will be home for dinner tonight." Her tone brooked no argument. "Lilian picked out several new suits for you. If you don't come, she'll deliver lunch to your office every day starting tomorrow."

She knew her son too well.

His current indifference toward Lilian made him allergic to persistent attention. This tactic would work.

"And stop camping at Ethan's place. The newlyweds don't need a third wheel. Don't you have your own home? Move back tonight."

"They've been married six months," Theodore protested.

"For couples in love, every day feels like a honeymoon. Got a problem with that?"

He fell silent.

"If you don't return, I'll visit Ethan myself. Tell him we're renovating and need to stay with them. Wherever you go, I'll follow."

A bead of sweat formed on Theodore's temple.

His mother absolutely would.

Lilian stood quietly nearby, lips curved. Mrs. Orlando's domineering attitude created the perfect opportunity for her.

"Fine. I'll be back tonight."

Defeated, Theodore fled into the elevator.

As the doors closed, he exhaled in relief.

Mrs. Orlando turned to the secretary. "What's so urgent?"

"Possible issues with the XX project," the secretary replied respectfully. "Mr. Orlando is handling it personally."

Lilian suddenly interjected, "Why aren't you going with him?"

"Another secretary oversees that project. My presence wouldn't help."

"Theodore has two secretaries?" Lilian arched a brow.