Can't Win Me Back (Isabella and Nathan) novel Chapter 80

The butler turned and left.

But Theo, for some inexplicable reason, became unusually uneasy. “Grandma, I should probably step aside.”

The old lady stared at him in surprise. “You, the troublemaker who never cared for these formalities, are suddenly so gentlemanly and graceful?”

Theo darted off like a rabbit. “Grandma, you're talking business with Miss Thea. I’ll just be a distraction.”

When the old lady saw him slip into the study behind the screen, she didn’t stop him, understanding that he was choosing to evade the situation.

In just a moment, the butler returned, leading Thea into the room.

The old lady carefully studied this young woman who seemed to be the cause of her beloved grandson’s unusual behavior. Thea had a remarkable presence, a graceful figure, and a beauty that could rival a flower, yet her eyes carried a somber weight, as if she had a story to tell. The old lady, sensing something off, grew cautious.

“Miss Thea, please, have a seat.”

Thea sat gracefully across from the old lady, clearly at ease. She stated her purpose directly. “Madam, I am the design director of *TheaEver*, and I apologize for the sudden visit. I’m hoping to discuss a potential collaboration with you.”

With that, Thea presented the project booklet she had prepared in advance, offering it respectfully with both hands.

“Madam, this is a showcase of our company’s latest collections. We are positioning ourselves in the high-luxury market. I’ve heard that the Browns' Global Trade Tower has an available spot, and we would like to ask you for an opportunity…”

The old lady observed Thea’s slender, graceful fingers, which were trembling slightly, revealing her nervousness despite her calm demeanor.

She took the booklet and placed it on the coffee table, though her interest was more in Thea herself than the contents of the booklet. “Miss Thea, how old are you this year?”

Thea was taken aback. She assumed the old lady was trying to subtly inquire about her professional background, so she responded, “I’m twenty-four. Although I haven’t been in the industry for long, I’m very passionate about fashion…”

But the old lady interrupted her. “Do you know my grandson, Theo?”

Thea froze.

She had come to discuss business, yet the old lady had suddenly brought up personal matters. It was completely unexpected.

Reluctantly, she nodded. “Yes, I do.”

The old lady’s face showed a knowing look. “No wonder.”

Now, the reason Theo had come home suddenly was becoming much clearer.

“Are you two friends?” the old lady asked.

Thea felt awkward. She wanted to explain that she and Theo were more than just friends—they had once relied on each other like family. But her sense of insecurity, shaped by her tragic past, kept her from being fully open.

She feared that if the old lady learned of her background, she might judge her as one of those high-society women who look down on others, possibly stopping Theo from associating with her.

So, she downplayed it, “I suppose so.”

The old lady was stunned. Theo, with his cold and distant nature, had never had any real friends, and those who had tried to get close to him were completely ignored, no matter how persistent they were.

Now, he had made a friend, and for the first time, the old lady didn’t care about Thea’s background. She believed Thea could change her precious grandson’s character, and for that reason, she saw her as an extraordinary woman.

Naturally, she regarded her with a favorable view.

“Thea, my grandson Theodore has a very cold personality. He’s like a block of wood, sometimes grumpy and distant. But deep down, he’s very kind. Since you’re his friend, please be patient with him. When he’s being difficult, try not to take it personally.”

Thea stared at her, somewhat dazed.

The old lady’s words were filled with warmth and affection for Theo, which made Thea feel a slight joy in her heart. She realized that although Theodore had suffered, he was also fortunate.