Love at First Novel by Gu Lingfei

The family knew how to give her space-they wouldn't bug her unless it was a big deal.

Well, except maybe her two little brothers, who'd probably sneak over to mooch some free meals whenever they got the chance.

Mrs. Ormond started to say something but swallowed her words. Deep down, she couldn't argue with her daughter's plan-it was pretty darn smart.

Elora broke the silence. "Mom, don't stress about me and Tatum. I've got this under control.

Bottom line: I'm not gonna let myself get the short end of the stick." Her voice was calm but firm, reassuring her mom she was calling the shots in her own love life.

Parents could weigh in with advice, sure, but the final say? That was hers.

"Anyway, Mom, it's late," Elora added. "Head back to your room and crash. I'm beat too-got a big meeting at the company tomorrow."

up. "Alright, get some sleep

track down Tatum for a

straight from him-what was he thinking? Was he for real

behind her. With her mind finally settled on a plan, she

room, she didn't want to wake her husband, so she'd slipped out quietly earlier. But now, lying in bed, her brain wouldn't shut off. She flipped one way,

concern etched on his sleepy face. "You're flopping around like a fish on a grill.

little. "Last time you were this restless was the night Alonzo

Ormond let out a long sigh. "I'm worried.

us years to get

knees. "I don't want to overthink and mess myself up, but this is about Elora's future—her whole life. How am I supposed to not care? Sure, she's

Ormond blinked, registering it was about their eldest. Then he reached

Sleep. Elora's a rockstar-she's not gonna get played by some random dude. If I'm worried about anything, it's that