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Chapter 1 His Demand

"Dr. Thompson, you've got company," a nurse hollered over the hum of the hospital's morning rush. The place was a zoo, especially the plastic surgery department during the summer madness.

Ellie, known as Dr. Thompson around here, pushed through the break room door, her eyes landing on Alex Warren, her foster brother, who was parked by the window, phone in hand.

Now, Alex was the kind of guy who could make even the most mundane of mornings a little brighter.

He stood out, tall and confident, with a style that was all his own. His dirty blonde hair was always perfectly messy, like he'd just stepped off a magazine cover. And that black diamond earring gave him a touch of bad boy charm that was hard to resist.

As if he could feel her staring, Alex glanced up, his gaze colliding with Ellie's. It had been years since their paths had crossed, and his eyes seemed to have a new depth to them, a kind of intensity that made her look away first.

With a playful smile, Alex closed the distance, leaning in to get a better look at her. "Look who decided to grace us with her presence. The wanderer returns, and not a word to her family."

Ellie's heart did a little dance at the familiar scent of him—a mix of sandalwood and a hint of tobacco.

She'd been the Warren family's foster kid, always toeing the line until she chose a college out of town, breaking the mold. The day she left, he'd totally got angry, tugging at her ear in that brotherly way of his.

Shaken by the memories, Ellie turned to get Alex some coffee.

The sound of Alex's footsteps echoed in the room as he caught up to Ellie. "Hey, Ellie," he said, a playful tone in his voice, "you and Haley still tight?"

Ellie turned, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Always," she shot back, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

"Think you could put in a good word for me?" Alex asked, his gaze hopeful.

But as the words left his mouth, Ellie felt like she'd been hit by a truck. Her mind went blank, and she barely registered the hot coffee spilling over her hand, the pain a distant echo.

"Oh, Ellie, you okay?" Alex was by her side in an instant, his hands guiding hers under the cold tap. He grabbed a tube of aloe vera from the first aid kit, his fingers deftly applying the soothing gel.

Then he looked into her eyes and continued, "If you can help me with Haley, I'll give you one thing you want. Anything you name it."

Their eyes locked, and Ellie bit her lip, a storm of emotions brewing behind her calm facade.

Alex, not missing a beat, continued, "She's the one, Ellie. I'm all in. I need you on my side."

His eyes sparkled with determination, but Ellie saw something else—something that made her heart ache.

She'd been carrying a torch for Alex for seven years, convinced that her feelings were a lost cause. But now he was asking her to help him with someone else. Her best friend, no less. It was a twist she hadn't seen coming. She felt a whirlwind inside, but she kept her composure.

"Alex, I can't," Ellie said, her voice barely a whisper, but firm.

His face fell, the warmth in his eyes replaced by a cold, hard stare. "Why not?" he demanded, the chill in his voice cutting through the air.

The room seemed to shrink, the tension palpable. Ellie took a step back, her gaze dropping to the floor. "Haley's feelings are her own. I can't interfere," she said softly, her voice a mix of resolve and regret.

The room was thick with unsaid words as Alex stood there, his gaze unwavering on Ellie. It had been years since their paths had crossed, and in that time, she'd blossomed into a vision of elegance, her lips now a canvas of subtle allure.

Before she could make her escape, Alex moved to block her exit. "Take the afternoon off. We need to talk."

Ellie's hand hovered over the doorknob, her voice firm despite the tremor. "I can't. I've got responsibilities."

Alex let out a snort, a mix of amusement and annoyance, as he smoothly pulled Ellie's phone from her pocket. With a firm grip, he pressed her thumb to the screen, unlocking it with ease.

Then he sneered with disdain in his eyes, "How much does an intern make in a day? I'll spot you ten times that. Your day is mine now. Go get that time off."

Ellie's cheeks flamed, her fists clenching at her sides. That look in his eyes always stripped her of her defenses, leaving her feeling raw and exposed.

He was Jaslands' golden boy, the epitome of wealth and power. She was just a girl making her way through the world. The divide between them was as vast as it was insurmountable. Her feelings for him had always been a line she dared not cross.

She took a step back, her voice steady. "It's not about the money," Ellie said, meeting his gaze.

Alex's expression turned thunderous, his voice a growl. "Bold of you to defy me."

The courage Ellie had mustered crumbled under Alex's stern gaze. She looked away, unable to hold his eyes, but she didn't back down. "Professor Bell has surgeries today. I'm his assistant. I can't just take off."

Alex loomed over Ellie, who seemed to shrink under his scrutiny. His eyes narrowed, but he remained silent, his gaze unwavering.

Chapter 2 The Spoiled One

Ellie, unable to bear the intensity of Alex's stare, lowered her head. "I'm sorry, but I need to get back to work," she said softly.

With a sharp movement, Alex tossed the phone aside and left, the door slamming in his wake.

In the aftermath of Alex's exit, Ellie rushed to the changing room, seeking solace in privacy. She couldn't believe that after three years apart, he had come to her, asking for help in pursuing her best friend. Her heart felt shattered, more so than the screen of her broken phone.

However, his anger was the least of her concerns—Haley Owens was her brother Aaron's girlfriend. They were in love, even planning to move forward. Alex's request was a betrayal she couldn't fathom.

*****

At 5:30 PM, Ellie clocked out, ready to head home. As she walked to her car, she spotted Alex leaning against his sleek silver sports car in the temporary parking area outside the hospital. He looked sharp, his dirty blonde hair glinting in the sunlight.

Feeling a bit self-conscious in her faded jeans, Ellie quickened her pace.

But Alex's voice called out, "Don't you see me?"

Before she could respond, he playfully ushered her into the car.

During the drive, he bombarded her with questions about Haley. The two families had been close for years, and Alex knew Haley well. It was strange—he used to barely acknowledge her, but now he seemed genuinely interested. What had changed?

When they arrived, Ellie snapped back to reality as Alex opened the passenger door.

He finally noticed her red, puffy eyes. "What happened? Your eyes look rough. If someone's bothering you, just let me know."

Ellie felt flustered and quickly brushed off his concern, pushing his hand away. "It's nothing, really. Just some work stress."

Alex playfully poked her forehead. "I told you med school would be tough! You should've listened to me."

His poke was a bit too firm, and Ellie instinctively tilted her head away, trying to shake off the moment.

Alex looked at Ellie, shaking his head with a mix of amusement and frustration. "Just look at you," he said, a smirk on his face. "Let's go grab some food." He turned and headed toward a nearby restaurant without waiting for her response.

Ellie hesitated, her feet firmly planted. "I'm on a diet, so I don't eat at night," she murmured, barely audible.

Her mom had always warned her that accepting favors could make you feel indebted. Even though she hadn't chosen to join the Warren family, she was determined not to be a burden.

Alex had waited for her after her shift and driven her out here, but it was clear he had one goal: he wanted her help to win over Haley.

Ellie had secretly liked Alex for seven years, a quiet crush she never intended to reveal. If she did, it would turn her private story into a messy drama. Ironically, the girl Alex was after was her brother Aaron's girlfriend.

"Just keep me company while I eat, and afterward, I'll take you out for some fun," Alex said, reaching out to gently tug at her arm.

Ellie deftly stepped back. "I really should head home. I have work early tomorrow."

That wasn't just an excuse. Professor Bell had a big surgery scheduled for the morning, and as his assistant, Ellie needed to be well-rested and ready. Plus, she knew Alex's invitation was really about impressing Haley.

After being turned down twice, Alex's expression darkened. He pressed his lips together and fixed Ellie with a piercing stare.

The July heat was stifling, making the air feel thick and heavy. Ellie couldn't meet Alex's intense gaze, feeling the weight of his attention pressing down on her.

A low rumble of thunder echoed as Alex glanced up at the sky. "Let's go. We can talk at home," he said, his impatience evident as he walked toward the sleek silver sports car parked nearby.

Ellie stood her ground, watching him leave. Taking a deep breath, she called out, "I rented a place outside, so I won't be bothering anyone by coming back."

When Alex stopped in his tracks, Ellie felt a knot tighten in her stomach. Even though the Warren family treated her like one of their own, she knew she didn't truly belong.

Her real home was in the poor village, with a father who couldn't walk, a mother who couldn't read, and a brother wearing hand-me-downs from Orion, the eldest Warren, Alex's brother.

Ever since she secretly applied to an out-of-town college and left the Warren family, she had no intention of going back. And when he mentioned talking at home, she knew it was about Haley.

Alex's expression darkened as he narrowed his eyes and approached her slowly. Ellie instinctively clenched her hands, feeling the tension in the air.

"Where is your place? Show me," he said, his voice firm.

Ellie looked down, trying to keep her composure. "No need," she replied quietly.

In an instant, Alex grasped her chin, forcing her to meet his gaze. The distance in her tone was unmistakable, making him uneasy and igniting a desire to confront her. "You've got some nerve, not coming home?" he said, a hint of anger in his voice.

Ellie's lashes fluttered as she stammered, "It's not... not proper."

"Ha," Alex scoffed, a smirk forming. "Hiding a guy, are we?"

Ellie shook her head quickly. "No, I'm not hiding anyone. It's just closer to the hospital, that's all."

As he released her chin, Ellie rubbed the sore spot with her hand. They stood face to face on the sidewalk, Ellie looking down like a kid caught doing something wrong.

Alex's frustration was clear. "Cancel the lease and come back home, or I swear I'll make you regret it."

Ellie simply forced a bitter smile, choosing silence over a response.

Alex was fuming, his chest visibly rising and falling. "Just tell me straight up, why won't you back me up with Haley?" he challenged.

Ellie hesitated, her lip caught between her teeth. "You've got the right to chase whoever you want," she finally said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside. She just couldn't be the one to mess with Aaron and Haley's relationship.

"Can't lend a hand at all?" Alex pressed, not ready to let it drop.

"I'm out," Ellie replied, her tone leaving no room for negotiation.

"Care to explain why?" Alex's question was sharp, demanding an answer.

"Not really," Ellie said, her gaze fixed on the ground.

With a sudden, angry flick, Alex sent a small red box flying into a trash can by the roadside. The sound of it hitting the bottom was a loud, echoing statement.

Ellie stood there, rooted, as Alex walked away. The box, which he'd tried to give her earlier, was now just another piece of trash. She hadn't accepted it, knowing it was a bribe to get her on board with his pursuit of Haley. His quick disposal of it was a shock.

The summer rain started to pour, big, heavy drops soaking Ellie as she stood there, lost in thought. The rain felt cold against her skin, a physical echo of the unexpected hurt she was feeling inside.

Ellie looked around and spotted Aaron's law office just a short distance away. Gritting her teeth, she dashed through the pouring rain toward it.

As she took shelter under the awning of a nearby shop, she saw Aaron stepping out of the office. She was about to call out to him when she noticed Haley's white Mercedes parked nearby. Hesitating, she decided not to interrupt them.

The rain kept coming down harder, and Ellie moved further under the awning to stay dry. Suddenly, she felt a solid chest bump against her back. Startled, she instinctively stepped forward to create some distance.

"Alex?" she said, turning around to see him standing there. Relief washed over her, but it quickly turned into anxiety.

Alex stood under the awning while Ellie remained out in the rain, just a step apart. Following his gaze, she saw her brother getting into the car with Haley.

Chapter 3 Is This The Reason?

Ellie turned to face him, their eyes locking. She could feel the tension in the air, and the mocking smirk on his face was unmistakable.

Soaked to the bone, Ellie tried to find her footing under the awning, but before she could steady herself, Alex pushed her back out into the rain.

The shove caught her off guard, and she stumbled, falling hard onto the pavement. Wincing in pain, she looked up at Alex, disbelief written all over her face.

She knew Alex could be harsh, but he had never actually hurt her before. Seeing him push her down like that, just to impress Haley, made it clear how deep his feelings ran.

Alex loomed over her, his expression dark and intense. "Is this why you're not helping me?" he demanded, his voice low and threatening.

Ellie clenched her hands in the muddy water as she struggled to get up and move under the awning to escape the rain. She wasn't one to wallow in self-pity; standing out in the rain to talk to him was the last thing she wanted.

Covered in mud and looking a mess, she quickly checked the scrapes on her hands and arms, then pulled out an alcohol wipe from her bag to clean them.

"Seriously? A little scrape and you're making such a big deal out of it?" His voice was cold and laced with sarcasm.

Ellie looked up, meeting his gaze. Despite her best efforts to hold back her emotions, her eyes began to water. She knew her place, but hearing it from him still hurt.

The dangerous look in Alex's eyes made her uneasy, but since he already knew, she figured it was better to be honest. Under his intense stare, she took a deep breath and said, "Haley is Aaron's girlfriend. They're happy together and will be meeting the parents soon."

Alex's laughter was sharp and mocking. "What does your brother have that could compete with me?"

"Aaron doesn't need to compete because Haley likes him," Ellie shot back, her voice rising with urgency.

Alex looked at her like she'd just told the funniest joke. "Haley's bags alone cost a fortune. What can your brother possibly offer her?"

Ellie was at a loss for words. Aaron was juggling his job at a law firm while pursuing his PhD, sending most of his paycheck home to their parents.

Since he started dating Haley, he had been saving for ages just to take her out to a regular restaurant, let alone buy her anything nice.

"Even if she's your brother's girlfriend, you still have to help me," Alex insisted. "Set up a meeting with Haley for tomorrow morning."

His commanding tone made Ellie feel both anxious and angry. But her frustration gave her unexpected courage, and she met his gaze without flinching. "You know Haley is with Aaron. Why should I help you? If you really like her, go after her yourself. You know where she lives."

Alex seemed taken aback by her boldness, but it didn't take long for his arrogance to resurface. With a proud look, he said, "The more she's with your brother, the more I want to win her over."

"Ellie, the less you want to help me, the more I want you to help," he added.

"I won't help you," she replied firmly, then turned and dashed into the rain.

He was a wild spirit, impossible to tame. Even his grandfather Carlos had ended up in the hospital several times a year because of him.

In the past, Ellie had always been obedient, but this time, she wasn't going to follow his lead anymore.

As she ran into the rain, Alex smirked to himself. 'Ellie, what do you think you can use to stand up to me?' Without hesitation, he picked up his phone and sent a text.

*****

Ellie trudged back to her apartment, feeling every bit of the day's grind. She managed a quick shower, her hair still wet as she flopped into bed and flicked off the lights.

Sleep should have come easy, but instead, she was haunted by the memory of Alex's disdainful look and his harsh words.

She'd braced herself for the worst where he was concerned. But the idea of him going head-to-head with her brother, Aaron, over a girl? And then, to top it off, asking her for help? It was too much.

She could have had her pick of guys, many of them great catch, but her heart had other ideas.

Sleep eluded her, and she woke up early, heading to the hospital as usual. Like any adult facing a tough day, she put on a game face, ready to juggle whatever life threw her way.

"Morning, everyone," she chirped, greeting her coworkers with a forced brightness.

One of her colleagues gave her a sympathetic look. "Ellie, word is Professor Bell's assistant gig is gone. They want you in the director's office."

Exiting the director's office, Ellie kept her cool, hastily gathering her stuff and making her exit.

Just yesterday, everything was hunky-dory; today, she was told the internship was a no-go and she should just wait for a call. It was a gentle way of saying she was out of a job.

Recalling Alex's resolute expression from the night before, she felt a pang of heartache. For Haley, he'd really put her in a tight spot. It was a lot to take in, but Ellie knew she had to find a way to move forward.

Ellie emerged from the hospital's outpatient building, her outfit as unassuming as ever: gray, loose-fitting pants and a crisp white top with sleeves that hit mid-way between her shoulder and elbow.

Her hair was pulled back into a simple ponytail, and a canvas bag hung casually over one shoulder. It wasn't a look that turned heads, but it was one of the few ensembles she felt comfortable wearing out in the world.

The morning sun was a bit too intense for her taste, so she used her bag to shield her eyes, the brightness bringing a sting to her nose. She glanced back at the hospital, hesitating for a moment, not wanting to leave.

It was supposed to be a big day for her—her first time in the operating room. But now, with her job gone, even the thought of the celebratory dinner her brother and Haley had planned felt like a distant dream.

Pushing her sadness aside, Ellie started the walk to her apartment, the sun's rays beating down on her. There was a silver sports car parking by the curb. The car's sleek body seemed to glow in the sunlight, a stark contrast to the rain from the night before.

Alex was inside, one hand holding a cigarette, the other resting on the window frame. Sweat glistened on his forehead, darkening his shirt in patches.

Ellie was deep in thought, not registering the car until she was right next to it. She stopped short, and Alex turned to her, his gaze meeting hers.

Chapter 4 She Couldn't Afford It

Alex was offering Ellie a way out. All she had to do was play nice, call him by his name, and set up a meeting with Haley. Her internship would be back in an instant.

But Ellie shook her head, her resolve firm. She could find another job, but getting involved in Alex's pursuit of her brother's girlfriend? That was a line she wouldn't cross.

As she walked away, Alex's eyes followed her, his expression hardening. He remembered the quiet girl from the poor village, always in the background, quick to help. She had grown, her once timid presence now replaced by a confidence that challenged him.

With a dismissive flick of his cigarette, Alex's voice was laced with a hint of a threat. "Ellie, we'll see how long your defiance lasts."

*****

Ellie had been holed up in her tiny apartment all morning, wrestling with the urge to spill the beans about her job loss to her brother, Aaron. Finally, she decided it was time to come clean.

Over lunch, they both grabbed beef stew. Aaron, just as he settled in, threw out a question. "Hey, you weren't scared going into your first surgery, were you?"

As Ellie met her brother's gaze, the pride there choked her up, and the confession she was carrying got lodged in her throat.

"Rough day in the OR?" Aaron continued, fishing out the last few slices of beef from his bowl and plopping them into Ellie's, then playfully stealing some of her vegetables.

With her head down, Ellie watched the beef pile up in her bowl, her eyes starting to sting. "Aaron, I... I got let go from the hospital," she managed to say.

Aaron's hand froze, but he quickly recovered, offering comfort. "Just a setback, that's all. Take your time with the next gig. I got your back on the bills."

Ellie's eyes caught on the frayed edge of Aaron's shirt collar, and a silent heartache swelled inside her.

In this day and age, it was unusual to see clothes worn down to the threads. Despite Ellie and Aaron both bringing in some income, their dad's disability and constant need for meds, along with their mom's full-time care, meant they were stretched thin.

Aaron had a way of putting it: "Ellie, a little hardship? That's nothing. We just can't miss a beat on Dad's meds."

Ellie, being a doctor, understood the harsh reality: missing meds could be as good as giving up.

She used to be puzzled by patients giving up, even when their conditions weren't fatal. But she got it now—they weren't giving up on life; they were just up against a wall financially.

Noticing Ellie's gloom, Aaron put down his fork and gave her hair a comforting ruffle from across the table.

"I might not be rolling in it, but you're not going hungry," he assured her. "And I snagged you some sandals online. They'll be here soon. If they don't fit, we'll swap 'em out, no worries." His eyes showed nothing but brotherly love.

Ellie offered a small smile, her gaze flicking back to the worn collar. She ducked her head to mask the moisture in her eyes and dug into her meals with determination.

*****

After lunch, Ellie headed to the library to escape the heat and enjoy the air conditioning. She lost herself in books for the entire afternoon, keeping her mind busy and feeling much better.

As she stepped outside, her phone buzzed in her pocket. Thinking it was her brother or Haley, she was taken aback when she saw it was the police calling.

They said, "Ms. Thompson, your brother's law firm has accused him of leaking confidential documents and selling client information. He's facing serious charges..."

Ellie's heart dropped. The officer's words felt like a heavy weight, but one thing hit her hard: Aaron was in trouble and could be going to jail.

"Haley!" she called out, relief washing over her as she spotted her friend at the police station entrance. Haley looked stunning in her stylish Chanel outfit, her hair perfectly done, and she seemed like a lifeline at that moment.

Haley quickly pulled Ellie into her white Audi, cranking up the air conditioning. Despite the cool air, Haley was sweating. "Ellie, has Aaron had any issues with anyone recently?"

Ellie shook her head. Aaron was a law student known for being responsible and cautious. He would never do anything to ruin his future. "You know him. He wouldn't break the law, even if someone pushed him."

Haley's expression turned serious. "A lawyer friend of mine hinted that Aaron might have crossed someone important."

Someone important? Ellie felt a chill run down her spine. She had just been fired that morning, and now Aaron was in deep trouble. It had to be connected.

Haley started the car. "Let's get you home first. Tomorrow, I'll find a way to meet with Aaron and figure this out."

*****

Ellie and Haley had been running around for days, trying to figure out how to help Aaron with his legal troubles.

When they ran out of options, Haley finally turned to her parents for support. But instead of helping, they insisted that Haley break up with Aaron immediately after hearing about the Shen family's situation. This led to a huge fight, and in a fit of anger, Haley decided to move out.

Ellie really wanted to tell Haley the truth—that Alex was behind everything and that he had feelings for Haley. But every time she thought about Alex's warning, she lost her nerve.

He had gotten her fired from the hospital without breaking a sweat and put Aaron in a tough spot. If she ignored his threats and told Haley everything, she couldn't imagine how Alex would retaliate. The risk of making him angry was just too high.

Since she lost her job and Aaron got into trouble, Alex hadn't contacted her. She knew he was waiting for her to back down and come to him. If she did, it would mean giving in to his unreasonable demands.

But if she stayed away, Aaron could end up in jail. Ellie felt like she was walking on eggshells, her anxiety growing with each passing moment.

"Hey, Mom?" Ellie caught sight of her mom, Joanna, at her apartment door around noon, and something in her gut twisted.

Joanna, just a few years past fifty, looked weathered, her simple clothes hanging off her as if they belonged to someone much older. The worn-out arm covers she always wore weren't just for modesty; they were a shield for the mended sleeves beneath, a silent guardian of her pride.

Joanna was lugging this massive burlap bag, her face glistening with sweat, yet she seemed reluctant to put it down. Without a second thought, Ellie jogged over and relieved her mom of the heavy load.

"Ellie, how's the internship treating you? Is it kicking your butt?" Joanna's voice was tinged with worry.

As her mom's questions followed her, Ellie kept walking, just a little ahead, to hide the tears welling up in her eyes.

She was grappling with how to break the news about her dismissal from the hospital, dreading the thought of the heartbreak she'd see in her mom's eyes.

"Aaron said he was craving my lasagna last week. I'm gonna whip some up for you guys. Give him a ring, will you?" Joanna suggested.

Chapter 5 Ellie Was Determined To See Alex

At the mention of calling Aaron, Ellie spun away quickly. "Mom, Aaron's up to his eyeballs in work. Let's not get in his hair. We'll catch up with him later, I promise.

"Once he's got some breathing space, we'll head back and spend a good chunk of time with you," Ellie said, her voice quivering as she avoided eye contact with her mother.

Ellie's mom wasn't a frequent visitor; she couldn't read, and traveling was a challenge for her. Plus, she was always conscious about not wanting to cause any embarrassment for her kids.

This time, she must have really missed them to make the effort to come. But there was no way Ellie could tell her that Aaron was in a tough spot, currently behind bars.

"Your studies come first," Joanna said, her voice attempting to sound light, but her eyes told a different story. They were clouded with disappointment.

She scrubbed her calloused hands on her pants before squatting down and starting to unpack her burlap bag. It was like a mini grocery store in there—vegetables, beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, cornmeal, and so on.

After a brief silence, Joanna went on, "Ellie, your dad... he's talking about stopping his meds. He's worried about the costs, with Aaron and you needing to settle down.

"We're still in debt to Carlos for all the school fees. He feels like he's not contributing, just holding you back. I gave him a piece of my mind..."

She took a breath and added, "If you and Aaron can manage it, come home next week. Try to talk some sense into him."

Ellie glanced over at her mom, who was now huddled in the corner. Despite being just a bit over fifty, her hair was mostly silver. Her words were soft-spoken, but to Ellie, they resonated deeply. It was the harsh reality of their financial struggles.

She thought back to the cutting remarks from Alex: "What does your brother have that could compete with me?" And then, "What do you think you can use to stand up to me?"

Swallowing the lump in her throat, Ellie managed a smile. "Mom, don't you worry. Aaron and I will be there next week."

As joy spread across her mother's face, Ellie, trying to keep things light, added, "And don't just think about Aaron, now. I'm starving."

Her mom sprang up and hurried to the kitchen to whip something up. Ellie watched, fighting back the tears, as the aroma of a home-cooked meal filled the air—some cheese-meat-sausage lasagna, a reminder of the love that held them together through the tough times.

Ellie's small apartment wasn't often the scene of family dinners, but tonight was different. As they sat down to eat, Joanna fidgeted with a slice of lasagna clearly wrestling with some old guilt.

"Honey, you know I wouldn't have done what I did back then if I didn't think it was the right thing for you," she said, her eyes pleading for understanding.

Ellie reached out, gently taking the lasagna from her mom's hand and placing it in her own bowl. "Mom, we've been over this. I don't hold it against you," she reassured her, trying to lighten the mood.

The memory of that near-fatal incident when Ellie was just a kid was still a bit hazy. She'd ended up in a chemical plant's waste pond in a bid to help a boy, and it had nearly cost her everything.

Her dad had come to her rescue, but not without any price. His leg had never been the same, and the toxins had left him with a lingering cough that never seemed to go away.

After her grandpa's passing, a wealthy old man, Carlos, who claimed to be a friend of her grandpa's had shown up, offering to help with school fees and even adoption. It was a lot to take in.

One night, Ellie had heard her parents arguing about the risks of her leaving with Carlos. They'd considered sending her brother instead, but Carlos'd insisted on taking Ellie, admiring her quiet obedience. Her dad was dead set against it, leading to a fierce dispute that echoed through the house.

In the end, it was her mom who had pulled her towards Carlos's car, with her dad hobbling after them, his voice cracking as he called out Ellie's name, accusing her mom of being heartless.

Her dad's limp had slowed him down, and her mom, tears streaming down her face, had led Ellie to the edge of town, where she'd tearfully watched as Ellie was driven away.

"I've lived through not being able to read, and I won't let that be your life," her mom had explained through her tears. "You're my own flesh and blood, and I love you more than anything. I just didn't have the means.

"All I want is for you to have a chance at a better life, even if it means you end up resenting me. I'm just a simple woman who's seen enough hardship. I can't bear the thought of you going through the same."

"Hey, Mom," Ellie said, pushing a piece of lasagna towards her mom, "how about you crash at my place tonight?"

Joanna smiled, "Nah, I don't want to cramp your style. Plus, I've got to get back. The chickens are out in the open, and that old tarp needs to be put up before the storm hits.

"And the sow's due any minute now. Your dad's not as spry as he used to be, so he could use a hand."

Ellie walked her mom to the bus stop, and as the bus pulled away, Joanna's face was still pressed against the window, her eyes fixed on Ellie.

Even with the noise of the bus, Ellie could hear her mom's voice trailing off. "Come back next week, both of you. I'll make my special lasagna."

Once the bus was out of sight, Ellie let the tears fall. She had to keep her parents in the dark about the mess she and Aaron were in. She had to talk to Alex, her brother's only shot at staying out of trouble.

Next week, she'd have to go home with Aaron and convince their dad not to stop his meds—it was a matter of life and death.

*****

Ellie quickly tidied up her place before stepping out with her umbrella. It was just getting dark when the rain started to fall. Standing outside the café, she felt her heart race as she dialed Alex's number, but he didn't pick up.

Frustrated, she sent him an apology, but all she got back was nothing. It hit her hard—Alex had blocked her. She sighed, feeling defeated.

Not ready to give up, Ellie reached out to a few of Alex's friends until she finally found out where he was.

Later that night, Ellie stood outside the Earl Hotel, umbrella in hand, waiting for Alex to come out. She knew he was inside, but she couldn't bring herself to walk in.

The rain wasn't pouring, but it was enough to leave her soaked from the waist down. Her umbrella was struggling against the wind, one of its ribs already broken. She stared at the revolving doors, her eyes glued to them.

Just before, Haley had called to let her know that Aaron's case was moving to trial. Ellie felt a surge of determination; she had to see him tonight, no matter what. She couldn't let this chance slip away.

*****

At the Earl Hotel, the luxury suite was buzzing with the casual banter of a card game. Alex was in the middle of it, dealing out cards when his buddy Layton Mosley sauntered in.

"Alex, your little charge been causing trouble?" Layton joked, clapping him on the back.

It was no secret that the Warren family had taken in a girl from a poor village, and Alex was stricter with her than anyone.

He just gave Layton a half-smile, cigarette perched on his lip. "She's getting to that age, you know? Hard to keep tabs on," he said, shuffling the cards with a practiced hand.

Layton pulled up a chair, a thoughtful look on his face. "Haven't spotted her around in a while. Thought she might've left the nest."

"Alex, you're not her real brother, man. You gotta be careful with how close you get," another man warned, his voice serious.

"Eh, she's grown up. She needs her own space," some buddy dismissed and said, not wanting to get into it.

And just like that, the guys were off, discussing the finer points of female beauty, a conversation that could rage on forever.

As the night dragged on, it was clear Alex was checked out. He was down by a pretty penny, but he didn't seem to mind.

"I'm tapped out, guys. You keep it going," he said, tossing his cards on the table and pushing back his chair. With that, he left the game behind, ready to call it a night.

Chapter 6 It Would Never Be Her

The clock ticked past one in the morning, and the rain came down like a waterfall. Alex pushed through the hotel's spinning doors and spotted Ellie, huddled in the corner of the portico, trying to dodge the rain's bullets.

Even there, she was getting soaked, clutching a tattered umbrella, looking like a drowned rat with those big, damp eyes tracking him.

The doorman rushed over, shielding Alex with an umbrella as he beelined for his fancy car.

"Alex," Ellie's voice called out, but he pretended not to hear, his strides lengthening.

Not to be deterred, Ellie dashed to the car as Alex slid in, her umbrella fighting a losing battle against the wind, her hand tugging at his arm.

"I messed up, and I'm sorry, " she muttered, her voice barely a whisper, head bowed like she always did when she was little, even if she didn't do anything wrong.

Alex glanced at the sad umbrella and then at Ellie. "What exactly did you mess up?" he snapped, even though he was the one who should be on the apology train.

The wind snatched the umbrella from Ellie's hand, and she let go of Alex's arm to wrestle it back. After a few deep breaths, she found her voice, soft but steady. "I'll help you... with her," she said, her words a quiet offer.

Alex, already behind the wheel, paused with the seatbelt in hand, his eyes locked on Ellie.

She stood there, eyes downcast, the weight of a lifetime of his shadow on her shoulders. She'd tried to escape it all, running off to college far away, but here she was, right back in the thick of it.

His face was still a thundercloud, but his voice had an edge of curiosity. "You gonna talk back to me now?" he asked, a challenge in his tone.

Ellie shook her head, her compliance as automatic as it was unnecessary. "No," she whispered.

Alex's stern look softened, just a bit. "Get in," he said, opening the door for her, a reluctant truce in the making.

Ellie took a moment before climbing into the car.

Alex was quick to toss her a towel. "Dry off," he said, getting straight to the point.

She didn't have time for his games. Ellie clutched the towel, her voice edged with desperation. "I've kept my end of the bargain. Can you let my brother go now?"

Alex just stared, a dismissive snort escaping him that Ellie took as pure sarcasm. He held her gaze, and she fidgeted with the towel, the silence between them growing heavy.

"First, give me all of Haley's contact info," Alex said, his hands resting easily on the steering wheel, his mood lighter. "If you play your cards right, your brother could be out tomorrow."

Ellie looked up, her eyes meeting his. It was clear he was in control of her brother's situation, and she felt powerless. Jaslands was Alex's world; he could find out anything about anyone. Yet, he was making her jump through hoops.

"Why do you need me to give you her contact info when you could get it a million other ways?" Ellie asked, her frustration showing.

"Because you're making this harder than it has to be," Alex replied, pausing for effect. "The more you resist, the more I want you to do it."

Ellie frowned at his taunting words.

Alex gave her a playful glance. "And since I'm serious about Haley, I'm planning on marrying her, so I need to be well-prepared."

His casual mention of marriage sent Ellie's emotions into a whirlwind. She lowered her head, taking a deep breath to steady herself. Her feelings for Alex were a one-sided struggle she couldn't control, and the pain was her own doing.

She couldn't imagine how Haley would feel if she knew Ellie was helping Alex pursue her, or how her brother would react if he found out. But Ellie was out of options. With a heavy heart, she handed over Haley's contact information to Alex.

"Alright, let's hit the road," Alex said, tucking his phone away with a pleased grin.

Ellie looked at him, puzzled. "Where exactly are we headed?"

"Back to the old homestead," Alex answered, his voice leaving no room for debate.

She crossed her arms, determination in her eyes. "I'm not going back there." She only came to him as a last resort to help her brother. And she left that life behind a long time ago.

Instead of arguing, Alex just stepped on the gas, and the car leaped forward. Ellie's breath hitched, but she managed to keep her scream in check.

The rain was pouring down, and even with the wipers on full blast, it was hard to see the road ahead. Ellie knew Alex's temper; she wasn't about to test his limits again. When he got mad, things could get intense.

As they raced towards the Warren Manor, Ellie kept to herself. Maybe it wasn't all bad—she'd get to see his grandfather and parents.

Lost in her thoughts about the mess she'd have to clean up once her brother was out, Ellie was snapped back to reality by her phone buzzing in her pocket. Seeing Haley's name flash on the screen, she snatched up the call.

Haley's voice was frantic on the phone. "Ellie, I'm in a mess. I had to get out of the house, and now my bank cards are frozen. Can you come pick me up? I'm really in a pinch here."

The night air was sliced by a sharp brake screech. Ellie was still processing the noise when Alex was already out in the downpour, pulling open her door. He didn't hesitate, just pulled her out and led her to the awning.

"It's a monsoon out here, no cabs in sight. Haley can't be out alone—it's not safe. I'm going to get her," he said, his tone all business. "Ellie, you stay right here. I'll have Evan come for you. Remember him, right? The butler."

Alex was back in the car and peeling out before Ellie could get a word in, leaving her without even a tattered umbrella to fend off the rain.

Ellie stood there, watching the car's red lights vanish into the night. Her eyes brimmed with tears as a familiar sadness washed over her.

His car, a two-seater, always had to make room for the one he cared about, and she was the one who had to step aside. She wrapped her arms around herself, the night and the rain masking her sobs as she let the emotions out.

*****

It had been forty minutes, and no sign of Evan. The darkness around her felt alien, and a shiver of fear ran down her spine.

She fumbled with her phone, the glow of the screen a small comfort as she checked her location. Luckily, her apartment was a manageable walk, just over an hour away.

Drenched and without an umbrella, Ellie resorted to an old trick: she raised her bag above her head and made a beeline for her apartment. No point in waiting around; it was clear she was on her own.

The streets were a mess, with water pooling on the sidewalks and swirling around the open manholes. It was a ghost town out here, with hardly any cars passing by, and Ellie's heart raced with each step.

Then, out of nowhere, her world tipped. "Whoa!" she exclaimed as her foot slipped, and she felt herself plummeting. The last thing she remembered was the sensation of falling before everything went dark.

Chapter 7 Your Fault

Three days later, Ellie stirred in the hospital bed, the beeping of machines and the faint smell of disinfectant telling her she was in the medical ward.

Aaron's call came through, his voice urgent. "I got out this morning and tried to reach you. You never picked up. Everything okay?"

The tightness in her chest eased hearing Aaron was free. She shifted to sit up, but a wave of dizziness made her pause. Her gaze fell on her bandaged ankle, the scrapes on her arms a silent reminder of her recent ordeal.

Pushing through the soreness, Ellie levered herself up with one hand, her voice as casual as she could make it. "Just needed a break, you know? To clear my head. I'll be back in a bit."

"Good," Aaron replied, his relief palpable. "Take all the time you need. Just want you to know I'm fine now." And with that, he hung up.

Her phone buzzed with a transfer from Aaron—a small amount, but it was all he could spare. It was enough to know he was there for her.

Before she could fully register the amount, Alex's hands were on her shoulders, gently but firmly easing her back onto the pillows. "Stay put," he said, his tone brokering no argument.

Alex dropped off some cookies on the nightstand and leaned over Ellie's hospital bed. She was unusually quiet, and it seemed to irk him.

He playfully tweaked her cheek, his voice a mix of annoyance and concern. "I told you to stay put. What were you thinking, running off like that? You could've really messed up."

Ellie, still smarting from being left in the rain and her mishap on the way home, shot back, "If I go down, I go down. I'm not exactly a delicate flower."

Alex stood by the bed, arms crossed, glaring at her. He was silent for a moment, realizing he'd been so focused on getting to Haley that he'd forgotten about Ellie.

But she was tough; a little rain wouldn't have bothered her if she hadn't gone wandering off and fallen into that manhole.

He gave her a light tap on the forehead, his face stern. "That's for the attitude."

Ellie tried to hide her hurt, touching the spot where he'd tapped, but she kept quiet.

Alex, still stern, looked over Ellie's injuries—scrapes and a sprained ankle. He pulled up a chair and sat down. "What do you want for lunch? I can grab something for you," he offered, his tone softer despite his frown. "How about some salad?"

Ellie's eyelashes fluttered as she quickly closed her eyes, trying to hold back her feelings. She shook her head.

Alex, watching her closely, opened the box of cookies. "Come on, you look all good. You're tough; a little rain won't hurt you. But Haley, she might get sick. I brought you some cookies, thought they might help," he said, trying to lighten the mood.

Ellie was propped up in her hospital bed, doing her best to blink back the tears that were pooling in her eyes.

Alex, noticing her struggle, gave her a hand to sit up, his fingers gently teasing her closed eyelids. "If you don't peek, I might just have to glue these shut for you," he joked.

With a heavy breath, Ellie opened her eyes to the sight of the box in Alex's grasp, its contents now a mess of crumbs and broken dreams.

Alex's face flickered with a flash of something—regret, maybe?—but he quickly covered it up, offering her a piece that had survived the fall relatively unscathed. "It's not much to look at, but it's still good," he said, his voice warm with a hint of apology.

Ellie's gaze lingered on the crumbled cookies, a symbol of how she felt—easily dismissed. To Alex, it seemed like these small offerings were all it took to make things right.

Alex, seeing her hesitation, brought the pastry close to her mouth, his hand brushing her hair in a comforting gesture. "Come on, just a little bite," he coaxed, his tone soft and encouraging.

But what Alex didn't understand was the power of his smiles, his gentle touches—they were the hooks that had reeled Ellie in, time and time again.

His eyes held a sweetness that was innocent, yet it was this very innocence that had her heart caught in its snare. As she took a bite, a tear escaped, rolling down her cheek.

"Once you've had a taste, we're square, right? I'll grab us some lunch," Alex said, rising to leave without addressing the night he'd left her in the rain or the car that never came.

Ellie didn't ask why. Her mind had told her to let go of her fantasies about him, and she'd made the hard choice to walk away three years ago.

But no matter how far she ran, the name "Alex" echoed in her heart, a lingering presence that she could never fully shake.

Haley barged in, her eyes widening at the sight of Ellie's tear-streaked face. "Whoa, what's up? You didn't dodge that manhole?" she asked, her tone sharp with worry as she moved to Ellie's side to check her out. "If Alex hadn't called, were you gonna keep this little mishap from me and Aaron?"

Ellie sniffled, trying to play it cool as she pulled Haley down to sit by the bed. "I'm good, really. I'll be out of here tomorrow. No need to worry Aaron."

Haley's face was all business, her usual laid-back demeanor gone. "Ellie, why'd you hand Alex my number?"

Ellie hesitated, her mind racing for a way to explain without giving too much away.

Haley crossed her arms, a flicker of suspicion in her eyes. "Ellie, you're not holding out on me, are you?" She might come off as carefree, but she had a sharp eye for when something was off.

Tense pause, she finally looked up, meeting Haley's gaze. "Haley, you know I'm tight with the Warren family. When Alex asked for your digits, I was kinda stuck. If he's bugging you, just don't pick up."

Ellie kept it vague, hoping Haley would get the hint without needing to hear the gritty details. Alex's reasons for wanting Haley's number were pretty obvious. And she believed Haley had got the picture.

Haley studied Ellie, her brows furrowing. "Got it," she said, her voice heavy with realization.

Haley's gaze flicked to the cookie box, its edge nicked by her nail. "He hung onto it?" she said, surprised.

Ellie gave her a puzzled look. "What's up?"

Haley shook her head. "Alex showed up with this early. I wasn't into it, and he got ticked, just chucked it. I grabbed it and left it on his car."

Ellie looked at the crumbled cookies, her grip on the bedsheet tightening. A deep sense of sorrow took a solid shape in her chest.