The Year I Was the Other Woman To Myself novel Chapter 323

His anger flared at her words. Pinning her back against the pillows, he bit her lower lip, hard.

“Take that back.”

Her lip throbbed, but a slow, triumphant smile spread across Penelope’s face.

“Not unless you can prove it.”

“Are you trying to die tonight?”

“In your bed?”

Theodore’s hand clamped around her waist, and he lifted her effortlessly. As she instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck, he captured her mouth in a searing kiss and began unbuttoning her blouse.

Their passion burned for what felt like an eternity, but through it all, Theodore was careful not to put too much pressure on her, always protecting her bruised back. When she finally melted into a boneless puddle beneath him, he gently carried her to the shower. Afterward, he carefully applied a soothing cream to the bruises on her back before pulling her into his arms in bed.

“Sleep well. Have a sweet dream,” he murmured.

Penelope snuggled deeper into his embrace. “If you’re in my dreams, they’re guaranteed to be good ones.”

The next morning, when Penelope came downstairs, Theodore had already eaten and left for work. Mr. Johnson, however, was still at the table, looking as if he had been waiting specifically for her.

“The company has been so hectic lately, I haven’t had a chance to check in. It wasn’t until this morning that Theodore told me everything that’s happened.”

Mr. Johnson stood and walked over to Penelope, pulling her into a gentle hug.

“You don’t have to carry these burdens alone anymore. Don’t forget, we’re your family now.”

A warmth spread through Penelope’s chest, but she was never one for sentimental displays. She pulled back with a playful smile. “Business is business. Once we’re at the office, don’t think you can slack off on my watch!”

At her words, Mr. Johnson’s eyes lit up.

“You’re coming into the office today?”

Penelope nodded. “It’s about time I got back to work.”

“Oh, thank goodness! You have no idea how much has been piling up. I’m barely keeping my head above water. Please, take over so I can finally catch my breath!” He paused, then shook his head. “No, no, I can’t let you. Theodore made me promise not to push you. He wants you to rest for a few more days.”

“I’m fine, really.”

“You really think you were wrong?” Penelope asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I do! I truly do! Please, just let this go!” Rebecca begged, wiping at her tears.

“Then tell me. What, exactly, did you do wrong?”

“Huh?”

“Or was that just an act? Are you just saying what you think I want to hear so I’ll help Zebulon?”

“No, no! I really mean it!” Rebecca said, panicked. “I… I shouldn’t have gone behind your back to seduce your boyfriend. I shouldn’t have let my gratitude for your kindness turn into jealousy. I… I shouldn’t have worked with the Sullivans to deceive you, and I shouldn’t have spread those rumors about you!”

Penelope let out a cold laugh. People never recognized their mistakes when they were on top. It was only when they faced the consequences that they feigned regret.

But admitting a mistake wasn’t the same as feeling remorse, and she knew Rebecca didn’t regret a single thing she had done.

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