Love's Tangled Web (Alex and Ellie)

Ellie noticed the clerk's awkward look, which only made her cheeks flush. She shifted her gaze to Alex, who was completely absorbed in the necklace, oblivious to her discomfort. She felt an urge to just turn around and leave. "Ellie, put this on so I can see how it looks," Alex said, gesturing for her to come closer

"I'd rather let the staff show this to you. It's not really my style, she protested.

With a firm grip on her shoulder, Alex pulled her closer. "What did you think I brought you here for?"

Before she could respond, the cold metal of the necklace touched her skin, making her tense up. Alex's warm breath tickled her ear, and the contrast of his warmth with the cool necklace was overwhelming.

She knew the neckler wasn't for her, but her palins started to sweat, and she couldn't bring herself to look in the mirror.

"Wow, I'm so jealous of that girl. Her boyfriend is so hot, one girl pushed.

"Her necklace is from Vogue Kaleidoscope's latest collection-a custom pink diamond, and it's worth millions," another chimed in.

Being pretty really pays off. Look at how he's putting that necklace on her like she's the only one in the room, someone else added.

Ellic overheard the comments and glanced at Alex. He seemed unfazed by the attention. She looked down, hiding her feelings, reminding herself that the necklace and the affection gaze weren't for her. "Check it out: does it look good?" Alex asked, tilting her chin up so she could see herself in the mirror.

He stood close, one hand on her chin and the other on her shoulder. His eyes were locked on her reflection, a soft smile on his lips, and a warm look in his eyes.

They were so close that Ellie could feel his breath if she turned her head. But she knew the distance between them was like a math equation- infinitely close, yet never quite reaching

Alex caught the brief look of wonder in her eyes. Ti asking you, does it look good?" he repeated

"It's beautiful" Ellie replied softly, and Alex finally removed the necklace from her neck, satisfied with her response.

As they were leaving, a staff member handed Alex a small black velvet box. This is a special bracelet for our premium customers to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Vogue Kaleidoscope. It's for you" she said.

Alex took the box and opened it to reveal a platinum bracelet. "Here, take it," he said, shoving the box into Ellie's hand and leading her to the elevator.

Inside the elevator, Ellie noticed the words "Gift with Purchase" in gold on the box. She hesitated and said, 'Our department has a rule against wearing jewelry during work hours."

Alex glanced at her but didn't take the box. "It's a gift, but even if it wasn't, it's not like you can't afford it. Just wear it when you're off," he replied. The elevator doors opened, and Alex stepped out first. After a few steps, he turned to see Ellie trailing behind, looking downcast. He frowned,

When Ellie caught up, Alex asked, "Are you upset?"

She was momentarily stunned.

"Do you want the necklace too?" he continued.

Ellie finally understood and shook her head. "No, I don't. I'm just not used to wearing this kind of stuff, she said, slipping the gift into Alex's bag when he wasn't looking, then turned to walk away.

But she didn't get far before Alex caught up. "Since you helped me pick a gift, I'll treat you to dinner," he said, grabbing her arm and leading her to his sports car "After dinner, pack up your things and move back home with me."

He then opened the gift box from his bag, took out the platinum bracelet, and put it on Ellie's wrist. "Wear it when you're not working. You'll get used to it." be warned.

The bracelet's smooth texture perfectly complemented Ellie's soft wrist, adding a subtle sparkle to her reserved nature, as if it was made just for her. "Don't it look good Alex asked, satisfied as he let go of her hand.

Ellie felt awkward and tried to remove the bracelet, but stopped when she caught Alex's warning glance.

The car came to a stop after a few minutes, and Ellie thought they had finally arrived at the restaurant.

1/2

1:19 PM

Alex's anxious voice broke through. Til take you out next time; just hurry and get out!"

Ellie hesitated, her hand lingering on the seatbelt. Following Alex's gaze, she spotted Haley standing by the traffic light, chatting away on her phone

Ellie turned back to Alex, who was busy fixing his hair in the rearview mirror. Noticing she was still in the car, he urged her again to hurry up.

With a quick breath, Ellie jumped out, but before she could even find her balance, Alex had already driven off.

She watched as he pulled up in front of Haley and got out to open the door for her.

It soung, and Ellie forced herself to look away. This was the second time Alex had kicked her out of the front seat. She knew there wouldn't be a next. Feeling tears prick at her eyes. Ellie removed the platinum bracelet from her wrist. This was not a real gift, no matter how much she hoped it could

be

"Ellie," Haley called from behind her. She turned to see Haley approaching, with Alex trailing not far behind.

Haley looked a bit awkward when she saw Ellie. "Wow, it's been forever! Let's find a spot to sit and catch up," she suggested.

Haley looked so sincere that Ellie wanted to talk about Aaron, but with Alex there, she felt like she couldn't say a word.

"Oh, Ellie, didn't you say you wanted to try that matcha cake! Let's go, my treat" Alex chimed in, not waiting for her to decline. He shot her a warning look and nudged her gently.

"Come on, let Alex treat us today," Haley added, trying to lighten the mood.

Ellie found herself being pulled across the street by Haley to a quaint coffeehouse.

She glanced at Haley, feeling a mix of confusion and disappointment. Just a few days ago. Haley had been totally uninterested in Alex, but now she was excited to have him treat them to a meal. Haley guided Ellie to sit beside her, with Alex taking a seat across from thems

The water handed over the menu and Alex passed it to Haley: "You go ahead and order first," he said.

Haley ordered a coffee and a dessert. As she was about to pass the menu to Ellie. Alex quickly took it. "She's not picky, so just get her a matcha cake

he said.

Haley added, "And no whipped cream for her, please?

Ellie sat quietly, her hands clenched under the table, her knuckles turning pale.

The waiter returned with their order. "Sorry, sir, but there's only one glass of room temperature watermelon juice left.

"No problem," Alex said, placing the glass in front of Haley. He then glanced at Ellie. "She can have iced water."noveldrama

Feeling out of place, Ellie picked up the glass of iced water and took a small sip. It was just plain water, but it tasted like a mix of emotions-sour, astringent, bitter... a strange blend.

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