Chapter Ten: Isabella Joanne Gallagher

The next morning, Ethan was greatly disappointed to see Maxwell all decked up and ready to depart for home. Requesting a private moment with him, they got into the study and as soon as the door closed behind them, Ethan blurted out,

"What's going on? Why are both you and Marcus ready to leave? I thought we discussed this last night. You didn't go and talk with him, did you? Why? Anyway, no need for all those questions now. Wait here, I'll go get him so you two can sort things out. I won't let you destroy your chance at happiness even before…"

"He's not available."

"What? Who's not available and available for what?"

"The little man, he's not single."

"What?! Don't tell me that 'Ally' he always talks about and makes calls with is his girlfriend! I never thought of that because he always sounded casual when talking about her, like she's a platonic friend or some…"

"It's not a girl. It's a bloke…'his honey' "

Though his expression was as unreadable as ever, Ma