Love's Tangled Web by Donna Taylor

Chapter 29

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Even though Haley knew the ring was a gift from Aaron, she was indifferent as she chased it around the hall. Ellie realized how naive she had been, and it was all so ironic.

Aaron gently wiped away Ellie’s tears. “Ellie, if you’re more sad than happy, it’s time to walk away,” he said. “You know life’s ups and downs. Breakups aren’t the end of the world.

“I can get another ring, find someone else, but losing the courage to face challenges is the real loss.

“Never feel inferior. Self–respect is your inner strength. If that person isn’t in your heart, they can’t hurt your self–respect.” Ellie hugged Aaron tightly, crying. She had meant to comfort him, but he ended up comforting her. “Aaron, I’ll listen to We’ll work hard together, and we won’t let other things get to us,” she said.

As long as she could erase Alex from her mind and seal her heart again, she wouldn’t feel the pain anymore.

couldn’t sleep, and she knew Aaron probably couldn’t either. Aaron had given up a well–paying side job and used all his savings to buy the ring for

her sake.

lightly about it, but Ellie knew he must have been hurting. Yet, responsibilities kept him from giving in to

Haley and met her at the corner outside their neighborhood.

car window rolled down, Haley, her voice sounding hoarse, said. “It’s really sunny out here. Get in

night, there was an awkward distance between them. Ellie stood

calling Aaron, but he said he’s busy and wouldn’t meet me. Do you know where he moved? Can you take me

“Haley, about Alex…”

my parents don’t want me with Aaron. They’ve been trying to set me up with Alex. I didn’t tell you guys about my birthday because I was

and I definitely didn’t expect Aaron to have a ring. I’m really confused and

saying Alex has really shaken up

eyes met, Haley hesitated, “…”