Love's Tangled Web (Alex and Ellie) novel Chapter 10

Chapter 10 Chapter 10 

lie fra the sting of Alex’s words, a reminder of the years her family had shown gratitude to the Warrens, now a bitter pill to swallow. It was a crushing blow to the spirit. 

Instinctively. Ellie glanced at her brother Aaron, who in turn looked at Haley. But Haley, unable to meet his gaze, turned away. 

Ellie moved quickly to block Alex as he charged over, her heart in her throat. She knew he responded better to a softer touch than a hard shove Ignoring her brother’s protests, she softened her voice. “Alex. look, we’re really sorry” 

But Alex wasn’t in a forgiving mood. “Ellie, where do your loyalties lie?” he snapped, pushing her aside. 

The crowd gasped as Ellie stumbled and fell into a nearby flower bed. 

“Ellic!” Aaron was at her side in a flash, his face pale as he saw her injured. A small spot of blood was already spreading on her white shirt. 

Handing Ellie of to Haley, Aaron Hood and threw a punch at Alex. “You’re out of line!” 

Alex, caught off guard by Ellie’s injury, slidn’t dodge in time. But he was no stranger to fights, and Aaron, despite his gentle exterior, was a force to be reckoned with. 

Their anger was a living thing, and even Layton had a hard time breaking them apart as the scene devolved into chaos. 

Determined. Ellie shook off Haley’s concern and got to her feet, rushing towards the fray 

“Ellie,” Haley said, her voice shaky as she closed her eyes, unable to watch 

As Alex swung, he saw Ellie flinch and hesitated. Aaron stepped in to shield her, and the two men were finally pulled apart. Ellie stood between them, trembling. 

Facing Alex’s fierce gare, Ellie’s voice wavered but her eyes were steady. The Warrens have been there for us. We won’t forget that. Tears filled her eyes. “Aaron and I are already in your debt. We’ll find a way to make it right.” 

Their eyes locked, and Ellie’s steady gaze seemed to unsenle Alex. He pointed at her forehead, frustration in his voice. “Ellie, how do you plan on making things right! With what you earn?” 

Ellie stood her ground. That’s my problem, not yours,” she 

Alex’s anger was palpable, but Layon managed to hold him back. 

with a quiet strength 

Turning to her brother, Ellie asked through her tears, Aaron. I’m right, aren’t r 

Aaron pulled her into a comforting hug. “You’re right, Ellie. We’ll figure it out. 

“Let’s get you to the hospital Haley interjected, steering them away. 

As the crowd dispersed, Alex stood alone, staring at the spot where Ellie had fallen, a cigarette now between his lips as he reflected on the situation. “Dude, what’s the deal with you and Haley Layton, standing side by side with Alex, sparked up a smoke too, his curiosity getting the better of him. Alex’s face was a thundercloud, He shot Layton a withering look. “Back off, will ya 

Layton stubbed out his cigarette. “Never knew that Aaron had such moves. Let’s get you patched up at the hospital” 

When Alex didn’t budge, Layton took a few steps and then doubled back. “Ellie’s been your shadow since she was a squirt. Thought you two were right. What if she’s really messed up?” 

Alex’s eyes flicked around, restless. He took a harsh drag from his cigarette. “She’s a turncoat. If she’s down for the count, it’s on her,” 

Layton held Alex’s gaze for a beat. “She was just looking out for her brother. You’re acting weird about this. You’re not… got a thing for her, are you?” Alex gave Layton a sidelong, menacing squint. “What are you getting at 

“You’re not… jealous of her own brother, are your Layton prodded, a teasing lilt in his voice. 

Alex scoffed, his gaze sharp “She’s just a kid. Don’t be ridiculous. She’s as timid as they come. Not my type, ever.” He ditched his cigarette and started to stride away. 

Layton hustled to keep up, “Chill, man, I was just messing with you. No need to get all worked up” 

Late at 

at night, Jaslands Hospital was calm, the soft lights casting a warm glow in the quiet halls. 

1/2 

2/2 

1:19 PM 

Chapter 10 

Earlier, Haley had caused quite a stir at the hotel entrance, leading her parents to call her repeatedly. So, she decided to head home for a bit… 

Meanwhile, Elie had taken a hit to the head and needed to be monitored for 24 hours due to feeling lightheaded from blood loss. Aaron was adamant that she stay in the hospital 

Aaron had only minor injuries. After the doctor treated his wounds and prescribed some antibiotics, he settled into the hospital room to krep Ellie company while she got her IV. 

“Just focus on getting better,” he said gently, guilt in his eyes. “Don’t think about anything else. Are you hungry!” 

Ellie shook her head. It was just a small bump on her forehead, and she wasn’t one to make a fuss. Their dad was at home, depending on them to earn money for his medicine. She couldn’t just lie around in the hospital. 

“Aaron, I really don’t need to stay here. Let’s head borne once the IV is done,” she insisted. 

Suddenly, a stylish middle–aged woman entered the room, her face filled with concern as she saw Ellie with bandages on her forehead. “Oh, sweetheart Nancy. Alex’s mom, exclaimed, her heart breaking at the sight 

“Nancy, what are you doing here?” Ellie asked, surprised, then quickly glanced at Aaron for support. 

“Please, have a seat, Aaron offered, standing up to give her his chair.