The Last Time I Loved Him (Autumn and Ryan)
Chapter 43

Chapter

10

Since then, Theodore started coming to the shop every day, under the pretense of checking on the kitten. He'd sit there, occasionally playing with Snowball. I had named the kitten Snowball, expecting Theodore to find it too simple, but to my surprise, he thought it was

adorable.

One day, he was sitting there as usual. After seeing off a customer, I glanced in his direction. The golden light of the sunset fell on him, his tousled hair seeming to glow. His eyes were downcast as he looked at Snowball with a gentle smile. Theodore was very handsome, perhaps even more so than Stephen, though he didn't smile as often or seem as approachable.

I found myself lost, staring at him. Just then, he turned around, and our gazes met. Embarrassed, I quickly said, "Would you like to try pottery?"

A tender smile appeared on his face, his gaze filled with warmth.

His look made me feel flustered, even causing me to walk awkwardly.

"Let's eat first!" I blurted, escaping into the storage room, my heart racing wildly.

We went to a seaside restaurant with a perfect view of the sunset. Once the dishes were served, I realized that most were my favorites. I looked at him, puzzled. "How did you know I liked these?"

He served me some food, replying, "We've had meals together before. I noticed you often ordered these."

But we'd only eaten together twice, both at family gatherings.

Realizing he'd paid such close attention back then, my heartbeat sped up again, so I kept quiet.

Between bites, I stole a glance at him. Perhaps it was his upbringing, but he ate quietly, every movement smooth and comforting to watch.

After dinner, we took a stroll on the beach. Awkwardly, I took out a keychain I'd made for him, decorated with a small cat paw.

"This is for you. You've helped me so many times, and I didn't know how else to thank you."

"Really? You made this yourself?"

"Mm-hmm."

"It's beautiful - just like you!"

"What?"

I looked up, only to see Theodore gazing at me, his eyes sparkling with a smile. He always seemed to be complimenting me, as if everything about me was perfect in his eyes. In that moment, all the self-doubt I'd carried seemed to shatter.