Tangled Temptations novel Chapter 197

After Griffin left, Eloise remained alone for quite some time.

By the time she made an appearance at the reception, she had managed to regain her composure.

Dwight sidled up to her with a smirk on his face. "That old codger come knocking again? What, did he drain his retirement savings and now he wants you to foot his nursing home bill?"

Eloise lifted a glass of champagne to her lips. "This is a formal occasion, Dwight. Gossip is hardly appropriate."

Dwight huffed, "I'm just lookin' out for you, babe."

Eloise knew exactly what was on his mind. He was just trying to ruffle Harvey's feathers. She wasn't so narcissistic as to believe that a playboy like Dwight was truly smitten with her.

But she did owe Stuart a debt of two million dollars. She was obliged to keep Dwight in line.

Eloise socialized with Dwight, carrying herself gracefully and confidently, while Dwight also behaved well without causing any disruptions.

In the distance, two of the city's wealthiest men were engaged in leisurely conversation.

Stuart chuckled, "I must say, Parker, my two million was money well spent. Just over a month, and Dwight has transformed into a different person."

Parker joined in the laughter, "And our dear Eloise has matured quite a bit. There's something about being with a younger man that brings out the mother hen in a woman, don't you think?"

With that, he let out another hearty laugh.

Stuart's face stiffened slightly, "Your Eloise?"

A look of surprise crossed Parker's face, "You didn't know, Stuart? Eloise and Harvey nearly tied the knot. They're just dealing with some minor issues at the moment."

Stuart's heart skipped a beat. Eloise was indeed an exceptional woman, but could his son truly compete with Harvey? The man was known in legal circles for his cunning and ruthlessness. There was nothing he wanted that he didn't eventually get.

Stuart felt truly concerned for his son.

But he was a man who valued his dignity in front of people more than anyone, so he forced a laugh, "When it comes to love, may the best man win."

Parker raised his glass in toast.

As if on cue, the man of the hour arrived.

Harvey crashed the party uninvited, his high-profile presence drawing many curious glances.

Eloise turned around and there he was.

She was resplendent in a pristine white gown.

He looked dashing in a classic black and white suit.

They were in the prime of their lives, with their best looks, gazing at each other across the crowd. In that moment, it was as if everyone else disappeared, and all the sounds fell silent.

Harvey slowly approached her, stopping just in front of her, "Congratulations."

Eloise was taken aback.

Dwight, standing by her side, was clearly not pleased. Seeing her with a look of lingering affection made him jealous.

Eloise only came back to her senses when he nudged her.

Harvey smiled softly.

He knew that despite everything or how much she may hate him, Eloise could never resist his charm. Her gazes were a giveaway, betraying her true feelings.

Harvey handed her a gift.

His voice was gentle, "Eloise, I promise you that I won't miss any more of your important days."

Eloise didn't want to lose her composure in front of so many people.

She handed the gift to Dwight and spoke softly, "Attorney Horigan, your words are too heavy. Our relationship doesn't warrant such promises. Enjoy the party."

With that, she gave him a small nod and turned towards the crowd, with Dwight in tow.

Harvey watched her, his gaze following her as she chatted with the other guests, even as she danced. Every now and then, their eyes would meet unintentionally, but she would quickly look away, choosing to ignore him.

The party went on, and Eloise was the perfect hostess.

But only she knew how fragile she was, and how vulnerable she felt.

She had had a bit too much to drink.

At the end of the night, she splashed cold water on her face in the restroom.

Dwight leaned against the wall outside, playing with his phone, and while waiting for her, he couldn't resist teasing her, “Ever since Horigan showed up, your look has completely changed. What's so great about him? If he's so amazing, why did you break up with him?”

Eloise emerged from the restroom, her voice cold, "My personal matters are none of your business."

Dwight scoffed, following her out, "You think I want to know? I just can't stand seeing you like this. What, did he hurt you so bad that you're scared to love again? You're only 25 and you're living like a nun. Don't tell me you're planning to live the rest of your life alone."

Eloise stopped in her tracks.

She felt as if she had been struck by lightning.

Dwight!

Only Dwight could see through her. Yes, after what happened between her and Harvey, Eloise was afraid to love again. Everyone thought she might fall for Landon, but she didn't dare. She wasn't as free-spirited as she thought she was.

Eloise didn't let Dwight drive her home. She hailed a cab and left. As she was waiting for the cab, she saw Harvey.

He was leaning against his car, smoking a cigarette.

Even under the neon lights, he still looked handsome. But Eloise knew she couldn't handle another heartbreak.

She hailed a cab.

As she was waiting, Harvey stubbed out his cigarette and walked over to her, with a frown on his face, "Where's Dwight? Why isn't he taking you home?"

Eloise put down her phone.