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

she'd track down Tatum for a

needed to hear straight from him-what was he thinking? Was he for real about

settled on a plan, she felt lighter. She climbed into bed, and sleep hit her like a

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

to face her. His eyes cracked open, concern etched on his sleepy face. "You're flopping around like a fish on a grill. You feeling okay, or is

propped himself up a little. "Last time you were this restless was

out a long sigh. "I'm worried. Flip

overthinking everything—it's bad for you. Took us years

whole life. How am I supposed to not care? Sure, she's got it handled,

was about their eldest. Then he reached for

some random dude. If I'm worried about anything,