Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem

Chapter 312

Elijah was never one to warm up to strangers easily, but something about Emmett felt different, almost inviting.

He took the initiative, "Hey, I'm Elijah. Nice to meet you."

"Nice, nice! Welcome, and thanks for joining our big, crazy family."

"Thanks for... me?"

"Yeah, your presence just brings this vibe of happiness, man. It's all you, so thank you for that."

Elijah paused, feeling as if a ray of sunshine had suddenly warmed his heart. Emmett's warmth and friendliness touched him deeply. It felt as if he had unlocked a door to a world he never knew, one filled with vibrant colors and life.

Elijah's heart was warmed, but at that moment-

Tarquin's heart was cold as ice!

After all, unlike Emmett, who was rational and harbored a complex blend of resentment and familial affection for Tarquin, Evan only had disdain for him. Not an ounce of love. In his eyes, anyone who loved his mom was a friend, anyone who hurt her, well, they were the enemy.

"Please, just be quiet. I need some peace."

you keep it down for a bit? I'm trying to have a moment

"Don't speak!"

you dense? Can you not keep your

in the car. Four sentences, each colder than

tone; Elijah had never spoken to him like that

"Elijah..."

a moment,

I've been holding back for so long, way too long! It's been hard, really hard. You better zip it, or I might

said, "Tarquin's your dad, you can't hit him!" Hitting him would mean disappointing his mom, and he didn't want to bring shame to

speak, and he was nearing

was still fuming internally when Tarquin was already stunned into

you want to

do!" Evan clenched his teeth, "So,

genuinely angry

your Elijah!" Evan snapped back without

do you

Realizing his slip, Evan pouted, "I don't want to talk