Love's Tangled Web by Donna Taylor

Chapter 630

Alex’s words hung in the air, thick with unspoken tension. Ellie quickly averted her gaze and pulled her hand free from his grasp. If the kiss earlier had been just for show, as Alex claimed, then his actions now were a clear attempt.

I’m not a naive teenager anymore. I know exactly what Alex is after, Ellie thought. She reached for the serving forks and placed a piece of pastry on Alex’s plate, trying to steer the conversation in a safer direction. “Try this, Mr. Warren,” she said.

Alex, ever composed, set down his wine glass and leaned back in his chair, Even as he took a sip, his eyes never left Ellie. The intensity in his gaze was unmistakable, his intentions laid bare without the need for words.

The table fell into an awkward silence, the air between them heavy with unspoken tension. Ellie kept her head down, pretending to focus on her food, but her mind was in turmoil. I just need to get through this dinner and leave, she thought.

“Having dinner with me is that unbearable, huh?” Alex’s voice cut through the silence, sharp and unexpected,

honor to dine with you, Mr. Warren,” she replied, forcing a smile. She quickly returned to her meal, using it

Alex set his glass down with a soft clink,

said, her

her hand. He sat back down and pulled out the red

triggered a flood of memories. She

just a cord. Not worth much,” Alex said casually, though his eyes were locked on hers, watching her reaction.

can’t accept this. Even if it’s not expensive, it’s still too much,” Ellie protested, trying to remove the bracelet. But Alex stopped her, his grip unyielding.

off bad luck,” Alex said, his voice low

protection… she thought, her mind

be better off asking me to protect you,” a

one is missing, you’ll hear from