Truth be told, it had been five years, and Elton had changed a lot since then. He was no longer the slightly domineering, sunny boy from those days. A touch of steadiness had settled between his brows, making him appear much more mature. Yet, that familiar, assertive aura was still as strong as ever.
Agnes managed a weak smile before she diverted her gaze, as if she were looking at a stranger.
The ceremony wrapped up quickly. Phenix and Sean were off in a car, showered with everyone's blessings, heading straight to the Ford Hotel. Agnes stood up, wobbling a bit. It was rare for her to wear high heels, and today of all days, she wasn't quite in the moment. She twisted her ankle slightly, her body tilting. But then, hands were on her arms, steadying her.
Jared and Elton were on either side of her, both reaching out almost simultaneously. "Careful," they said together.
Agnes jerked her hand away from Elton as if she'd been electrocuted. "I'm fine," she said quickly.
Elton's hand lingered in the air before he smoothly withdrew it, asking, "What's the plan now?"
Naylor, ever so casual, chimed in, "Head to the hotel, I guess. But it's going to be a bore. Dinner isn't until 6:30, and it's only noon now."
Elton suggested, "If you don't mind, you could come over to my place for a bit. I live in Angel Mansion."
At the mention of the name, Agnes visibly paused, casting a glance in Elton's direction. Angel Mansion?
Naylor was thrilled, "So you're the man behind Angel Mansion! I've heard so much about it. They've been working on that estate for years now, and it's only just finished. It's one of the Capital's most famous mansions, with its own amusement park, horse track, and golf club. Is that all true?"
A slight smile played on Elton's lips as he added, "And a private racetrack."
The word 'racetrack' had Naylor practically jumping with excitement.
Elton then looked at Agnes and Jared, "Would you two like to come and hang out?"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Heartstrings on Fire