Tangled Temptations novel Chapter 208

Under the dazzling chandelier, Harvey stood, a man of elegance and charm. He watched Eloise, her laughter directed at Landon, a smile that was rarely shared with him these days. She seemed to be drawn to Landon, and Harvey couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy. But he didn't want to come across as petty. So, he sauntered over to them, grabbed a glass of red wine from a waiter's tray, and, with a smirk, asked Eloise, "Has my allure brought you back to life?"

Eloise was used to Harvey's unabashed behavior. She turned to Landon and offered an apologetic smile. Landon, a man of the world, understood the dynamics at play.

Eloise had returned to Harvey's side due to the situation with Riley and Veronica. But Landon couldn't help but notice that their relationship seemed strained.

He decided to tease Harvey, "You couldn't stand the thought of her here in Rossland alone, could you? You chased her all the way here. People might think you're here for a romantic Valentine's Day getaway, not because you're paranoid."

The game of one-upmanship between men wasn’t just confined to the business world; it extended to their personal lives as well. And Harvey, being a lawyer, was well equipped with words. Holding his wine glass, he replied nonchalantly, "I don't believe I'll find any formidable competition in Rossland. What do you think, Eloise?"

Eloise shot him a look, trying to signal him to stop. He leaned in, whispering in her ear, "Are you feeling sorry for him?"

Eloise whispered back, "Harvey, did you come here to stir trouble? I just happened to run into him at the party. You really don't need to act this way."

"I'm jealous." Harvey admitted bluntly, and then he stared at her with an intense look.

Under the scrutiny of the crowd, Eloise blushed, and Landon's smile faded. Dwight, standing beside Landon with his own glass of wine, snickered, "Look, when it comes to being shameless, no one can beat Horigan."

Landon took a sip from his glass, the burn of the alcohol sliding down his throat and settling uncomfortably in his stomach. It matched his mood. He glanced at the couple, murmuring, "I made a mistake."

It was a vague statement, but Landon knew exactly what he meant. He hadn't realized how much Harvey cared for Eloise. Harvey, a workaholic, had always seemed indifferent to her. No one had expected things to turn out this way.

Landon realized he hadn't lost to Harvey but to time. Who said there was no order in love?

Landon left the party as quietly as he had arrived.

...

Even the most glamorous parties came to an end. With Harvey by her side, Eloise was left mostly undisturbed. As they were about to leave, she turned to Harvey and asked softly, "Did you book a hotel? If not, I can have my secretary do it for you."

Harvey replied with a deep look, "I'll stay with you."

Eloise began to fiddle with her phone. "I'll book it for you. I'll be busy these days and might not have time to keep you company."

Her phone was snatched away. Harvey replied seriously, "I won't disturb you."