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."

"Alright,

she'd track down Tatum for a

straight from him-what was he thinking? Was

her mom to the door, said goodnight, and shut it behind her. With her mind finally settled on a plan, she felt lighter.

much. Back in her own 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, then the other, restless as hell-until she accidentally jostled Mr. Ormond

face her. His eyes cracked open, concern etched on his sleepy face. "You're flopping around like a

you were this restless was the night Alonzo

a long sigh. "I'm worried. Flip the light

everything—it's bad for you. Took us years to get your health back on track." Still, he

up, hugging her knees. "I don't want to overthink and mess myself up, but this is about Elora's future—her whole

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

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