?Chapter 1077:


    Meanwhile, Jeffry’s reaction was far more subdued. He’d seen the signs, having long suspected Wesley’s interest in Elena, so none of it came as a real surprise.


    A grumble escaped Louis as he turned toward his brother. “Jeffry, you and Wesley are good pals! How could you not notice his interest in Elena?” There was no denying Wesley’s many strengths, and Louis respected him as a man. Still, the thought of his sister marrying Wesley was something else entirely. Worry gnawed at him, especially when he considered the Spencer family’s tangled web of rtionships. If Elena married into that family, she’d have to navigate abyrinth ofplications.


    A flicker of annoyance shed through Louis, aimed directly at Jeffry. How could Jeffry let Wesley get close to Elena in the first ce?


    Jeffry offered no excuses. He had been well aware of Wesley’s feelings toward Elena and hadn’t stood in his way. Despite the Spencer family’splicated dynamics, Wesley was more than capable of keeping Elena out of harm’s way. “Elena’s old enough to make her own choices. Whatever she decides, she has my support.” Jeffry spoke, his voice steady and cool.


    Louis frowned. Compared to Jeffry, he seemed to have overreacted. Supporting Elena’s choice was one thing, but marriage was no ordinary decision. It carried weight and consequences.


    Louis turned to Elena, trying to persuade her. “Elena, maybe you should take more time to think about it. If you want to date Wesley for fun, that’s fine, but don’t jump into marriage. Honestly, you should get to know a few different types of guys before you settle down.”


    Jolie shot him a sharp re, clearly disapproving of his words. “What nonsense are you spouting? Be serious!”


    Having alreadye to terms with Elena and Wesley’s rtionship, Jolie spoke gently. “Elena, no matter what you decide, your father and I will always have your back.”


    Alexander gave a nod, silently agreeing. Though he was surprised by his daughter’s rtionship with Wesley, he didn’t object to it.


    Seeing the entire family support Elena and Wesley, Louis had no choice but to shut his mouth, despite his reluctance. Before he headed upstairs, he couldn’t resist giving Elena onest piece of advice. “Men can be full of empty promises, Elena. Don’t fall for every sweet word you hear.”


    A sly smile yed on Elena’s lips. “Is that your method, Louis? Is that how you managed to win over Kiera?”


    Discover tales at g ? ln σν?? ?? s,


    The counterattacknded perfectly. For a second, Louis floundered. “Hey, I’m not like that! Kiera knows I’m honest. I don’t lie to her.”


    A teasing arch of her brow and a hint of a smile were all Elena gave him, half-mocking, half-challenging.


    Exasperation soon got the better of Louis. He tossed his hands up in defeat. “Alright, alright. You win this round. I’ll keep my mouth shut.”


    Night deepened, nketing the city as Wesley pulled up to the Harper house. Descending the stairs, Elena bumped into Jeffry in the hall. “Hey, Jeffry,” she greeted quietly.


    A nod was Jeffry’s only answer, but his eyes lingered, catching the subtle signs that she was heading out. He figured Wesley must be waiting and simply told her, “Don’te home toote.”


    “Alright,” Elena replied, her tone light.


    The moment Elena stepped outside, she spotted Wesley’s car parked just beyond the yard. December’s chill wrapped around her as she hurried across the yard, tightening her coat against the wind.


    She slid into the passenger seat and let the car’s warmth melt the frost from her cheeks. Before any words could form, Wesley’s hands were already cupping her ears. “You look cold,” he murmured, pulling her into his arms.


    .


    .


    .