Tangled Temptations novel Chapter 348

Eloise couldn’t help but cry. Her tears flowed silently, mirroring her silent role in their relationship.

How many times had they argued? And, how many times had she yielded? Guilt and love intertwined in her heart, reminding her of Harvey’s sacrifice. He had lost his memory for her. It was a debt she could never repay.

No matter how much Monica’s presence irritated her, she had to forgive. What else could she do?

Eloise bent down to pick up the spilled pills, one by one. She placed them back in the tiny bottle. So many white pills. She wondered if swallowing them all would end everything, end the endless debate of whether she loved Harvey or not, and end the constant accusations.

...

Their silent feud hadn’t affected their children.

In the early morning, Eloise rose from her bed.

Across the hall, Harvey emerged from the guest room, still wearing yesterday’s clothes. Seeing the dark circles under Eloise’s eyes, he said softly, “I’ll take Linda to kindergarten.”

His words were a clear signal that he intended to continue their routine lives.

Eloise murmured her acknowledgment and went to prepare breakfast as usual.

During breakfast, little Linda demanded both her parents drop her at school. Eloise looked up and locked eyes with Harvey. He had showered and changed into a fresh suit. His gaze now was more serious.

Before Eloise could soothe Linda, Harvey agreed, “Sure, let’s all go together. I’ll drive you back.”

Surprised, Eloise nodded.

Linda looked from one to the other, tugging gently on her mother’s hand. “Did you like the card Darrien and I made for you, Mommy?”

Eloise kissed her daughter’s soft cheek. “I loved it!” After the kiss, she rested her head against her daughter’s, not wanting to pull away.

Harvey watched them. His gaze was never wavering.

After breakfast, Eloise went upstairs to change. She chose a silk blouse and a fishtail skirt. As she was undressing, the bedroom door opened.

Harvey looked surprised, and then slowly closed the door.

Eloise dressed slowly. When she bent down, the vertebrae on her bare back were slightly protruding, which was a sight that was irresistibly enticing.

Leaning on the door, Harvey quietly said, “Denise told me about your doctor’s appointment.”

Eloise fastened her buttons, ran a quick comb through her long, brown hair, and finally looked at Harvey. “I have something else to do. I won’t be going.” She wouldn never go again.

After saying that, she left the bedroom, brushing past him. Harvey caught her hand. “Eloise!”

Eloise gently pulled her hand back. “Harvey, let’s stop this. We don’t have to force ourselves anymore. Let’s just live our lives.”

She paused. “I respect your choice.”

As she walked down the hallway, Harvey’s voice echoed behind her. “I won’t let go.”

“Whatever,” she replied.

It was just a Ravenna and her bringing up a bit of the past, and Harvey couldn't stand it. He said she didn't love him, but he was just as enamored with the Eloise who wholly belonged to him!

She laughed at herself mockingly.

She got to the parking lot, and got in the car. Instead of sitting next to Harvey, she sat next to Linda, chatting gently with her during the drive, occasionally discussing the children with Harvey.

The grown-ups were hiding the truth, and the children were none the wiser.

After dropping Linda at kindergarten, Harvey stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Eloise, watching their little girl.

After a while, Harvey walked back to the car, opened the driver’s door, and gestured for Eloise to get in.

Once inside, Eloise said quietly, “Drop me at the next intersection. I’ll grab a cab.”

Harvey lit a cigarette and drove in silence.

“Where are you going? I’ll take you there,” he offered.

Eloise gave him the address. Harvey didn’t say a word as he drove her there.

As she got out of the car, she thanked him.