Chapter 26
Chapter 26
Ellie and Aaron glanced at each other before turning around.
Let’s go say hello, Aaron said, his voice steady.
Ellie followed him into the hall, trying to ignore the curious stars, She forced a smile at Haley and said, “Happy Birthday.”
Haley’s face fell, and she asked. “What are you guys doing here?
Ellie looked away, feeling awkward. Then she turned to Aaron.
Aaron stayed calm. I was just here to get my belongings and wanted to say hi,” he explained, his tone slightly restrained. He didn’t mention their relationship or point out Haley’s discomfort. Instead, he politely greeted Haley’s parents.
Their response was a curt nod, clearly not genuine.
Aaron then turned to Haley. Tve got to go. I have something to take care
of
Ellie watched as Haley visibly relaxed, and she couldn’t help but feel surprised. On the way, she had been sure that Haley was avoiding Aaron. Aaron had been optimistic about their relationship, but reality hit quickly.
People around them started whispering, some recognizing the siblings, others not.
“Ellie, let’s go,” Aaron said, pulling her away and turning to leave
Ellie fr
felt a piercing gaze on her back. She knew who it was, but she didn’t want to talk to him.
“Aaron, you came all this way and didn’t bring a birthday gift for Haley?” Alex sneered.
Aaron stopped, and Ellie turned back, her eyes filled with worry, Alex was pushing through the crowd, and Ellie felt a wave/ of anxiety. It seemed like Alex wasn’t going to let them leave without a scene,
Alex looked down at Ellie, his eyes stern. This is between me and Aaron. Step aside.
Ellie stood her ground. “That’s my brother. I’m not moving
Their eyes locked as Alex reached for Ellie’s wrist, trying to pull her away, but Aaron quickly grabbed her other arm. “Alex, let go of my sister,” he said, his tone firm.
Alex retorted, “So now you remember you have a sister? My family raised her for over a decade. Where were you during that time?”
As Alex spoke, the crowd murmured.
“So, that girl was raised by the Warren family, someone whispered
“Looks like they didn’t treat her well. Just look at her outfit,” another added.
“She’s siding with her real brother against the one who raised her, How ungrateful, someone else commented.
Ellie’s face flushed with embarrassment. She pulled away from Alex and stepped back to stand with Aaron
15:03 Sat, Jan 25⚫ G.
Chapter 26
Despite her silence, her actions spoke volumes.
