Tangled Temptations novel Chapter 183

After getting discharged, Eloise hopped on a plane to Switzerland. She stayed there for a week, keeping Vanessa company, but Vanessa eventually shooed her back home.

"There's a ton of stuff waiting for you to deal with in Peterborough. You shouldn't just be here with me. I'm living it up here - sunshine, handsome guys everywhere. Even the doctors are eye candy," Vanessa winked.

Eloise smiled. "Alright, I'll head back then."

Vanessa drove her to the airport. As they said their goodbyes, she held Eloise's hand and whispered, "You've grown up. You've changed."

...

Eloise had just returned to Peterborough. Veronica called demanding souvenirs and invited her to Riley's birthday party.

Eloise had barely unpacked. Sitting on the couch in her apartment, she laughed. "I brought back some gifts, but I might have to pass on the birthday bash."

Veronica said quietly, "Riley didn't invite him."

Eloise knew who "him" referred to. She thought for a moment, then agreed.

...

On Friday evening, Eloise changed into a dress and took a cab to the club. The party was already in full swing in the private room. Most of the people were Riley's friends. Some were Veronica's classmates. Eloise knew them all.

She brought gifts. A fancy pair of watches for men and women, straight from Switzerland. Not cheap.

Veronica's eyes welled up when she saw them. She kept exclaiming, "This is way too expensive, Eloise. You're too generous!"

She called Riley over.

Riley had always admired Eloise. Eloise had been part of the high society circles but eventually walked back. He saw how Harvey was desperately trying to win her back. If he were a woman, he would definitely have caved, but Eloise held firm. That was why he respected her.

Riley, with his arm around Veronica, grinned. "Told you I didn't invite him, right? I'm fed up with him too."

Eloise gave a small smile. "Riley, it might be better if you didn't bring it up."

Riley joked, "There are a lot of attractive people here tonight. Eloise, take your pick!"

Veronica pinched him. "What are you blabbering about?"

Riley quickly apologized and motioned for Eloise to sit next to Callum. Eloise didn't expect to run into him at a party like this. But they were adults now. Avoiding each other would be petty. So Eloise greeted him warmly, "Long time no see, Callum."

In the small circle of Peterborough, the story between Eloise and Harvey was an open secret. Callum looked at Eloise's face, a mix of emotions crossing his mind. He couldn't forget the ten days he spent with Eloise, or the moment they watched the fireworks together.

Now, she was single again, and he was about to get married. They exchanged a few words, and then Callum, his voice a little hoarse, said, "I'm getting married next month."

Eloise offered her congratulations, "I'm happy for you, Callum."

A bitter taste filled Callum's mouth. He had no feelings for his future wife. The woman he loved was right in front of him, but they could never be together. He gave a small smile. "Thanks."

They didn't talk much after that. Eloise watched quietly as Riley confessed his love to Veronica, and everyone else sang happily. Veronica and Riley made out full of passion.

She was a bit envious of Veronica, who dared to love and hate. As for herself, she had become wary of love after one failed relationship.

Later, Gunner caused a scene. He had too much to drink and was causing a ruckus with a bottle in his hand, wanting to toast Riley.

"Riley! I'm not jealous of you! You're holding Veronica now, but I've got Ravenna... Ravenna is carrying my child! I'm very happy and comfortable now! No woman controls when I drink or who I hang out with, as long as I give enough money to Ravenna, she keeps her mouth shut and serves me even while she's pregnant!"

...

Veronica's face turned pale instantly. Gunner stared at her and said, "Ravenna will give birth in a few months. We should divorce soon, so you can clear out."