Love's Tangled Web by Donna Taylor

Chapter 26

Chapter 26

Ellie and Aaron glanced at each other before turning around.

Let’s go say hello, Aaron said, his voice steady.

Ellie followed him into the hall, trying to ignore the curious stars, She forced a smile at Haley and said, “Happy Birthday.”

Haley’s face fell, and she asked. “What are you guys doing here?

Ellie looked away, feeling awkward. Then she turned to Aaron.

Aaron stayed calm. I was just here to get my belongings and wanted to say hi,” he explained, his tone slightly restrained. He didn’t mention their relationship or point out Haley’s discomfort. Instead, he politely greeted Haley’s parents.

a curt nod,

then turned to Haley. Tve got to go. I have something to take

of

visibly relaxed, and she couldn’t help but feel surprised. On the way, she had been sure

around them started whispering, some

pulling her away

Ellie fr

back. She knew who it was,

didn’t bring a birthday gift for

was pushing through the crowd, and Ellie felt a wave/ of anxiety. It seemed like Alex wasn’t

Ellie, his eyes stern. This is between

her ground. “That’s my brother. I’m not moving

pull her away, but Aaron quickly grabbed her other arm. “Alex, let go of my sister,”

you remember you have a sister? My family raised her for over a decade. Where were you during that time?”

the crowd