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.

response was a curt nod, clearly

got to go. I have something to

of

help but feel surprised. On the way, she had been

them started whispering, some

Aaron said, pulling her away

Ellie fr

her back. She knew who it was, but she didn’t want to talk to him.

bring a birthday

was pushing through the crowd, and Ellie felt a wave/ of anxiety. It seemed like Alex wasn’t going to let them leave without a scene,

looked down at Ellie, his eyes stern. This

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

but Aaron quickly grabbed her other arm. “Alex, let go of

raised her for over a decade.

Alex spoke, the crowd