Love's Tangled Web by Donna Taylor

Chapter 22

As Haley and Alex chatted about fashion brands Ellie had never heard of, she kept quiet, watching Haley enjoy the attention.

Staring at her iced water, Ellie suddenly stood up. “You guys go ahead and chat; I need to use the restroom.”

She couldn’t drink iced water because of her health, but that was all she had. She couldn’t join the conversation, and they were so engrossed in their own world that it felt like she wasn’t even there.

She felt self–conscious in her simple outfit, and people passing by gave her curious looks. She felt like she didn’t belong. This

wasn’t her scene.

After sending a message to Haley, Ellie left the café and walked down the pedestrian street toward her apartment. Just then. she spotted Aaron coming out of a jewelry store.

It was a rare moment for the siblings to be out together, and Ellie couldn’t help but notice the small square box in Aaron’s hand. She had a pretty good idea of what it was “So, have you made a decision?” she asked

Aaron looked determined and said, “Yeah, I have. I know there’s a big difference between me and Haley, and her parents aren’t exactly fans of mine, but I don’t want to let her down.

“I quit my job as a hotel bellboy and found something better. I’m planning to propose to her on her birthday.”

After parting ways with Aaron, Ellie felt a rush of emotions. She was surprised and a bit anxious. Haley’s birthday was coming up, and usually, she would mention it ahead of time. But today, Haley hadn’t said a word about it.

doorbell rang I just moved in and only shared my new address with Aaron. Who could be visiting me at this

in her hand, and seeing the familiar caller ID, she quickly declined the call. She wasn’t

A loud bang echoed through the hallway, and Ellie could feel Alex’s anger even from

stormed in shooting her a look that could freeze fire. “Tll deal with

bedroom.

on a mission: She stepped in front of him at the bathroom door. “What are you doing here?” she

firm. “Pack your things.

head. “I’m fine

the room. It was a bit better than her last place, but still pretty bare. He turned and unplugged her laptop. “I

Ellie

front of him, blocking the way. “I don’t want to go

this isn’t up for discussion, Alex

her laptop, her voice steady. I’m not discussing either. I’m not going back.”

it

1/2

– Restore

game

Fri, Jan

Chapter 22