Chapter 18

"Clarisse!" Theodore's voice rang out in a hoarse, desperate shout, trembling with fear even he had not noticed. At first, Clarisse could not believe what she was hearing. She thought she was imagining it. It was not until Theodore hurried toward her with eyes full of anticipation that she realized he had actually come looking for her. Seeing the familiar white suit and the bouquet of roses in his arms, a flood of memories surged up in an instant. For a brief moment, she was in a daze. But only for a moment, for it passed as quickly as it came. What remained in her gaze was a quiet calmness. "Congratulations. The performance was outstanding." Theodore tried to mask the unease gnawing at him, forcing his voice to stay steady. He took a step forward, still clutching the bouquet. His eyes swept, seemingly unintentionally, over the man standing at Clarisse's side. "This is?" he asked, trying to sound casual. Zachary immediately caught the hostility and possessiveness in Theodore's e