Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem

Chapter 197

Tarquin had sparked up a cigarette, his only solace against the chilly breeze that swept through the yard. But no sooner had he taken a drag than the wind changed course, sending the smoke billowing straight into Elysia’s face.

She coughed violently, her delicate features reddening with each sharp intake.

Tarquin’s brow furrowed in concern, but Elysia just waved him off. “Don’t mind me. If it helps you relax, go ahead.”

Still, Tarquin hesitated for a brief moment before crushing the cigarette under his heel.

Elysia couldn’t help but sneak another glance at him, noticing a softness in his demeanor that was uncharacteristic of the man she knew. Her pulse quickened as she recalled the words Keaton had said over the phone just before her arrival at the hospital, making her all the more anxious.

Breaking the silence, Tarquin spoke, “I owe you one for today, for helping Elijah.”

“It was nothing!”

“What do you want in return?”

“I don’t want anything.”

“Come on, you’ve earned a favor. I’ll see it done whatever you ask.”

Elysia blurted out, “That won’t be necessary!”

“Oh?”

expression serious. “You may not think much of me, and the

Keaton had called her out of the blue. He had thanked her for saving Elijah and then hinted that someone was interested in a more… personal form of gratitude. But Elysia wouldn’t entertain the thought of being with that someone, not even for

as he asked, “Are you suggesting that I should offer myself

denied, “No, not at all! Don’t

“Me? Never.”

just said I could ask for anything. Doesn’t that mean you were expecting me to bring it up?”

at a

she being naive or was there

offer himself to anyone. “My heart belongs to Elijah’s mother. There’s no chance of me being with another woman, so let’s put that idea to rest. I was referring to other kinds of favors.”

“That’s a relief!”

you saved Elijah, I am willing to grant you any

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09:52

Chacher 197

favor but that‘

for a reward.”

from Tarquin, but Tarin didn’t know Tarquin. And though she was in dire need of money, Tarin was broke and burdened

to ask

had been her own choice, without any expectation

debt I owe you. If you ever