Love's Tangled Web (Alex and Ellie) novel Chapter 17

Chapter 17 

Ellic and Aaron glanced at each other before turning around. 

“Let’s go say hello, Aaron said, his voice steady 

Lilie followed him into the hall, trying to ignore the curious stares. She forced a smile at Haley and said, “Happy Birthday.” 

Haley’s face fell, and she asked, “What are you guys doing here?” 

Ellie looked away, feeling awkward. Then she turned to Aaron 

Aaron stayed calm. “I was just here to get my belongings and wanted to say hi, he explained, his tone slightly restrained. 

He didn’t mention their relationship or point out Haley’s discomfort, Instead, he politely greeted Haley’s parents. 

Their response was a curt nod, clearly not genuine. 

Aaron then turned to Haley. Tve got to go. I have something to take care of 

Ellie watched as Haley visibly relaxed, and she couldn’t help but feel surprised. On the way, she had been sure that Haley was avoiding Aaron. Aaron had been optimistic about their relationship, but reality hit quickly. 

People around them started whispering, some recognizing the siblings, others not 

“Ellie, let’s go,” Aaron said, pulling her away and turning to leave. 

Elbe felt a piercing gaze on her back. She knew who it was, but she didn’t want to talk to him. 

*Aaron, you came all this way and didn’t bring a birthday gift for Haley?” Alex sneered 

Aaron stopped, and Ellie turned back, her eyes filled with worry. Alex was pushing through the crowd, and Ellie felt a wave of anxiety. It seemed like Alex wasn’t going to let them leave without a scene. 

Alex looked down at Ellie, his eyes stern. “This is between me and Aaron Step aside.” 

Ellie stood her ground. “That’s my brother. I’m not moving.” 

Their eyes locked as Alex reached for Ellie’s wrist, trying to pull her away, but Aaron quickly grabbed her other arm. “Alex, let go of my sister,” he said, his tone firm. 

Alex retorted, “So now you remember you have a sister? My family raised her for over a decade. Where were you during that time!! 

As Alex spoke, the crowd murmured. 

“So, that girl was raised by the Warren family, someone whispered. 

“Looks like they didn’t treat her well just look at her outfit,” another added. 

“She’s siding with her real brother against the one who raised her. How ungrateful” someone else commented. 

Ellie’s face flushed with embarrassment. She pulled away from Alex and stepped back to stand with Aaron. 

Despite her silence, her actions spoke volumes. 

Aaron remained composed. “Alex, you’re right. I haven’t been the best brother. I’ll do better. Excuse us he said, then guided Ellie away. 

Perhaps it was Aaron’s calm demeanor or Ellie’s silence that set Alex off. He lunged for Ellie’s shoulder, but Aaron swiftly blocked him. The crowd gasped as the two began to grapple. 

“Alex” Layton stepped in, pulling them apart. Ellie held back Aaron, while Haley stood with her parents, not getting involved. 

Alex shoved Layton aside, pointing at Aaron Aaron, you’ve been wahing for Haley’s birthday. You must have a gift for her, right 

Aaron glanced at Haley, but she quickly turned away. “It’s none of your business,” he said. 

Alex’s eyes narrowed, focusing on the thin pocket of Aaron’s slacks. Before Aaron could finish, Alex’s men were right in front of him. Sensing Alex’s move, Aaron only defended, backing away. 

Ellie clenched her fists, her heart pounding. She knew what was in Aaron’s pocket; the engagement ring he’d chosen for Haley, 

Hey, why do those two always argue? Layton casually asked Ellie. 

1:19 PM 

Chapter 17 

Ellie forced a smile.