Chapter 25
At 8 PM, Aaron made his fifth call. The phone rang for what felt like forever, but still no answer.
75%
He remained hopeful. “Her parents have never liked me, so they probably don’t want us to see each other today. Let’s not make it awkward; we can talk later.”
He checked the time and added, “I need to swing by the hotel dorm to grab my stuff. I’ll drop you off first”
Ellie felt a pang of concern for Aaron. She grabbed his arm as they walked. Tm off tomorrow, so I’ll go with you to the hotel. And you better treat me to some beef stew afterward!”
After eight, Ellie and her brother Aaron headed to the Earl Hotel, where Aaron used to work part–time. The entrance was lined with luxury cars, and Ellie quickly spotted a sleek silver sports car.
She hesitated for a moment but then shrugged it off. The Earl Hotel belonged to Layton, and Alex, his best friend, the year there, so it wasn’t unusual.
spent half
Aaron guided Ellie through the employee entrance and into the lobby. They were on their way to the dormitory to collect Aaron’s personal items.
As they entered, they heard cheers from the lobby. Ellie and Aaron looked over to see Haley in a fitted princess dress, surrounded by a crowd.
Next to a towering champagne tower and a multi–layered cake, Alex opened a jewelry box and placed an expensive pink, diamond necklace around Haley’s neck. He looked at her warmly and invited her to dance. Haley smiled softly and accepted.
Ellie felt a sharp pain in her heart, almost forgetting to breathe. She knew the necklace was for Haley, but seeing it happen still hurt. She realized Haley had invited many friends but not her and Aaron.
She looked up at Aaron, trying not to cry. He seemed calm. like a bystander. Ellie reached for his hand, but his fist was clenched tight, and his arm was stiff.
“Can we leave, Aaron?” Ellie asked softly, not wanting to disturb the cheering crowd. Staying would only make him more uncomfortable. Her voice trembled as she pleaded, “Please, Aaron, can we go?”
In the hall, Alex and Haley danced gracefully, like a perfect couple. Alex was dressed formally in a dark suit, his dirty blonde hair shining under the lights. His gaze was intense, as if they were the only ones there.
Ellie struggled to breathe, fighting back tears. Her voice shook as the whispered to Aaron, ‘Can we go, please?” It felt like a secret she was sharing, too afraid to speak louder.
She tugged at his arm, and finally, Aaron responded. He looked down, hiding his emotions, and gave her a reassuring smile. “Let’s go,” he said.
“Aaron,” Alex’s loud voice rang out from the hall just as they were about to leave. The music cut off, and all eyes turned to the siblings.
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