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 p>
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 p>
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 p>
“Oh? And why’s that p>
“You’re not worthy of her affection p>
“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 p>
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 p>
Keith’s eyes narrowed at the proposition, “Why should I follow your directions? Sorry, Mr. Bradford, but I’m not taking the path you’re offering. I care for her, and her kids, and I intend to be their husband and father p>
Suddenly, Keith pulled out a bug from his pocket and turned it off in front of Tarquin.
Elliot had given him the device, and the kids were eavesdropping on their conversation.
After shutting off the bug, Keith smirked, leaned in, and said, “I’ve actually been into her for a while now. I p>
Whatever Keith whispered next sent Tarquin into a frenzy, his face contorting with rage!
Dropping his cigarette, he threw a punch without another word!
Keith turned the bug back on, touched the blood at the corner of his mouth, and challenged, “Who are you to dictate who I can or cannot like?!” Tarquin, driven to fury by Keith’s words, grabbed him by the collar for another punch.
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 p>
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 p>
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.