Chapter 164

The lights in the living room were still on. A full dinner sat on the table, untouched and cold. No one was at the table. Victoria had fallen asleep curled up on the couch. Her brows were faintly furrowed, like even in sleep she couldn't completely relax. Seeing this, Theodore felt both warmth and guilt stirring in his chest. He moved quietly, trying to carry her back to the bedroom. Just as he reached down, Victoria suddenly reached out and grabbed his collar. "You're back," she murmured. The pull brought them closer together. Theodore braced his hands on either side of her, his eyes locked on her face, now just inches away. His heart gave a flutter. But then he realized—she wasn't really awake. That was just a half-asleep mumble. He looked at her sleeping face and let out a soft sigh. Even in her dreams, she managed to tease him, fully unaware and peacefully asleep. Typical. Carefully, he lifted her into his arms, letting her rest against his chest. "Theo... you're back?" Victoria's