Love's Tangled Web by Donna Taylor

Chapter 25

At 8 PM, Aaron made his fifth call. The phone rang for what felt like forever, but still no answer.

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He remained hopeful. “Her parents have never liked me, so they probably don’t want us to see each other today. Let’s not make it awkward; we can talk later.”

He checked the time and added, “I need to swing by the hotel dorm to grab my stuff. I’ll drop you off first”

Ellie felt a pang of concern for Aaron. She grabbed his arm as they walked. Tm off tomorrow, so I’ll go with you to the hotel. And you better treat me to some beef stew afterward!”

Aaron headed to the Earl Hotel, where Aaron used to work part–time. The entrance was lined with luxury cars, and Ellie quickly spotted

for a moment but then shrugged it off. The Earl Hotel belonged to Layton, and Alex, his best

spent half

through the employee entrance and into the lobby. They were on their

entered, they heard cheers from the lobby. Ellie and Aaron looked over to see Haley in a fitted princess dress,

pink, diamond necklace around Haley’s neck. He looked at her warmly and invited her to dance. Haley smiled softly and accepted.

She knew the necklace was for Haley, but seeing it happen still hurt. She realized Haley had

not to cry. He seemed calm. like a bystander. Ellie reached for his hand, but his fist was clenched

only make him more uncomfortable. Her voice trembled as she

hall, Alex and Haley danced gracefully, like a perfect couple. Alex was dressed formally in a dark suit, his dirty blonde hair shining under the lights. His gaze