Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem



Elysia was torn.

"Kids make choices, adults want it all!"

Tarquin remained silent, just watching her, waiting for her to decide.

After a moment, Elysia said hesitantly, "If I really have to choose one, it would definitely be to ensure your safety."

A flicker of something passed through Tarquin's eyes as he squinted. "Not interested in money anymore?"

"Of course, I am."

"Then why choose my safety over money? If I'm safe, you won't get paid."

"That's not necessarily true. If you're safe and sound, you'll probably be in a good mood, right? Maybe you'll just decide to generously give me a ton of money out of the blue. You know, like those tycoons on TV shows who throw money around when they're happy."

Tarquin was taken aback by her logic, something most wouldn't consider. "Do you even remember your condition?"

"Of course, I just have to answer a question, right?"

"Right. And if you don't answer it properly, you'll end up broke for life."novelbin

What?!

Elysia's eyes widened. "Don't spout nonsense! I refuse to be broke; I'm destined to be rich!"

Tarquin teased her, "I cursed you in my mind during our bet today. If you don't answer my question seriously, you'll indeed end up broke."

Elysia was flabbergasted. "What's wrong with you! You can't just curse me!"

"I didn't really curse you. Just a heads-up not to back out."

Elysia glared at him, clearly annoyed.

Tarquin remained unfazed. "If you answer seriously, you'll definitely get rich."

That seemed to soothe Elysia a bit. "I'll answer seriously. What's your question? Ask now."

"...We'll talk about it after we get out."

Elysia pouted. "Then why did you even call me here?"

"Just wanted to know, with the holidays coming up, how do you plan to spend them?"

Elysia stared. "You rushed me over here just to ask that? Seriously, you're unbelievable! I was halfway through cooking when the police called, and I rushed over here, worried sick, only to find out you're fine! You... why are you like this?!"

Tarquin found her reaction amusing. She reminded him of a tiny, harmless husky puppy, trying to act fierce but utterly adorable.

"On New Year's Eve, I'm planning to head back to the old family home for dinner with Elijah. If you're free, why not join us?"

"Huh?"

Tarquin explained, "Elijah suggested it. It's your first year knowing each other, and he wants you to spend the holiday dinner with him."

Hearing about Elijah softened Elysia's expression. This year marked their first holiday together, and she too wanted to celebrate the New Year's Eve with Elijah, enjoying a festive dinner.

But... she didn't want to dine with his troublesome relatives.

"You've always said you're not on good terms with your family. Why have dinner with them?"

"Elijah and I are going back to pay respects to my dad."

If not for this reason, he wouldn't bother going back to the Bradfords, nor would he bring Elijah along. Elysia hesitated. She wanted to accompany Elijah, but what if those dreadful relatives recognized the kids? The children had met Tarquin before, and thanks to Emmett's makeup skills, they weren't recognized. But at the old family home, with so many relatives around, what if someone noticed something was off?

Her principle was clear: it was better for the kids to avoid Tarquin and his relatives as much as possible. Preferably, they would never meet again.