Chapter 18

Jasper arrives at The Eloise Inn and watches Eloise work, feeling exposed after sharing his past the night before. As he waits, he reflects on how few people know the full truth about his parents, Samantha, and Dan, and fears Eloise might eventually leave.

Knox approaches, mentions the upcoming Italy wedding, and assures Jasper that the Eden family recognizes Eloise as the heart and future owner of the inn. Jasper absorbs the reassurance, sensing roots forming with Eloise, and promises Knox he won’t break her.

When Eloise finishes checking in guests, she joins Jasper. Knox offers to make them lunch at Knuckles, and Eloise steps away to arrange coverage while Jasper contemplates goals, freedom from his trust fund, and his willingness to buy the inn for Eloise if needed.

Seated together in the restaurant, Eloise notices Jasper always sits beside her; he admits it’s easier to talk. She asks why he told her about his ex when Foster doesn’t know, and Jasper answers that she’d asked him to try. They briefly discuss a potential training job; Jasper implies he cut the meeting short because he missed her.

They plan Italy: arrive a day early, explore a bit, and skip the ceremony, attending only the reception. Jasper warns Eloise she will meet his parents, prepares her for indifference, and asks her to trust him over any narratives about his past with Samantha. Eloise readily agrees, and Jasper silently commits to protecting her—especially from Samantha—even if it means exposing their shared secrets.