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,

her eyes meeting his. “No, of course not. It’s an honor to dine with you, Mr. Warren,” she replied, forcing a smile. She

down with

course,” Ellie said, her smile

stood up, prompting her to reluctantly extend her hand. He sat back down and pulled out the red cord bracelet adorned with

breath hitched as the bracelet triggered a flood of memories. She tried to pull her hand back,

said casually, though his eyes were locked

too much,” Ellie protested, trying to remove the bracelet. But Alex stopped

off bad luck,” Alex said, his voice low and

cord… for protection… she thought, her

asking me

these flowers properly. If even one is missing,