Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem novel Chapter 616

Tarquin furrowed his brow, deep in thought. If Elliot came to talk about this, why was Elysia nervous?

It dawned on him that Elysia had no clue about his plans to buy a house!

"What exactly is your relationship with Elysia?" he quizzed.

Keith shot back, "What do you think it is?"

After locking eyes for a few tense seconds, Keith broke the silence, "We're just a parent and a teacher, but I've got a thing for her."

Tarquin's face transformed instantly, his gaze sharpening like a blade, icy and cutting.

With an air of calm, Keith continued, "That's why I'm sorry, but I can't sell you the house. I bought it because of her. I want to pursue her."

Tarquin's lips tightened, his complexion turning stormy, his tone frosty, "You better stay away from her!"

"Oh? And why's that?"

"You're not worthy of her affection!"

"I beg to differ. I'm single, we're around the same age, I'm a decent guy with a stable job. I can bring home the bacon and do the chores. More importantly, not only do I fancy her, but I also have a soft spot for Elliot, Evan, and Emmett. I genuinely want to pursue her, to give her and the kids a home."

Visibly agitated, Tarquin yanked at his tie, pulled out a cigarette, and lit it with a flick of his lighter.

With a snap, he tossed the lighter on the table.

After taking a few drags, he spoke, "I'll give you an out. Forget about Elysia, sell me the house at a high price, and I'll throw in another one for free. Disappear from Elysia, Elliot, Evan, and Emmett's lives!"

As they scuffled, Keith argued, "If you're into her too, we could've competed fairly! You can't just force me out. If she starts liking you, I'd step back willingly. But does she like you now? She doesn't!

So, I have every right and reason to pursue her. I genuinely care for her. But what about you? Do you... Ah, ouch..."

Hearing Keith's pained groans, the four little ones listening in were stunned, then quickly dashed out of the room towards the commotion.

Blossom, busy prepping ingredients in the kitchen, saw the kids scrambling out and followed them, curious.

Upon seeing Keith's condition, Blossom's eyes widened, and she screamed, "Oh my God!"

The scream echoed through the open doors of both apartments, reaching Elysia's ears.

Realizing something was wrong, Elysia threw off her blanket and rushed out to see what had happened.