Love's Tangled Web by Donna Taylor

Chapter 51

Chapter 51

It was late at night at the Encounter Bar in the Old Alley. Layton and Alex were lounging in a semi–enclosed private booth on the second floor, chatting and sipping drinks while keeping an eye on the stage below.

As their glasses clinked together, the sound ringing crystal clear Layton shot a teasing smirk at Alex. “I heard you dropped. Haley off at home, and her parents invited you for dinner. You really know how to charm then!”

Alex smirked back, his pride evident.

Layton continued, “Less than three months’in, and Haley breaks up with Aaron to be with you! I honestly thought they had something real going on.”

“Good luck in front of money and benefits,” Alex replied lazily, savoring his drink while his eyes remained glued to the beautiful Ellie on stage.

Following Alex’s gaze, Layton noticed Ellie, who was belting out a song. Unable to help himself, he exclaimed, “Look at those guys; their jaws are practically on the floor! I never realized this girl could sing so well. With that face and figure, it’s such a waste she hasn’t debuted yet!”

Alex let out a noncommittal grunt, as he downed a generous glass of red wine.

Layton eyed the ice cubes clinking at the bottom of Alex’s glass and teased, “Why do you keep adding ice to everything? Are you feeling that heated?”

gave a vague hum, barely

bet? I bet you ten bucks that Ellie’s dealing with a breakup right now. Just watch,” Layton nudged Alex with his

Alex’s gaze

the LED screen on the second floor, catching a

thought,

Alex was punctual as he made his way downstairs. “Where is she?”

picked up by a guy,” the waiter

that, Alex’s face

after him. “You’re not even her

glare at Layton before getting

Layton shouted, but in an instant, Alex

by to watch her perform, and

the door that made her jump. Startled, Ellie rolled out of bed, and

at the familiar number flashing on the screen, she hesitated before diving back under the covers. She

Sun, Jan 26 GT

Chapter 51