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,

Haley. Tve got to go. I have something

of

relaxed, and she couldn’t help but feel surprised. On the way, she had been sure that Haley was avoiding Aaron. Aaron had been optimistic

started whispering, some recognizing the siblings, others not.

pulling her away and

Ellie fr

it was, but she didn’t

this way and didn’t bring a

Ellie turned back, her eyes filled with worry, Alex was pushing through the crowd, and Ellie felt a wave/ of anxiety. It seemed like Alex

down at Ellie, his eyes stern. This is between me and Aaron. Step

my brother. I’m not moving

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

now you remember you have a sister? My family raised her for over a decade. Where were you

Alex spoke, the crowd murmured.