Contents
Chapter 4
Overview
Jasper and Eloise reunite at the A-frame, agree to pursue an annulment, and decide to keep their marriage secret. Jasper immediately questions the secrecy, worried about betraying Foster. After Eloise avoids him in public to protect her reputation and hotel prospects, Jasper follows her home; her fears spill out, and their attraction culminates in a kiss that complicates their resolve.
Summary
From Jasper’s POV, Eloise arrives at his A-frame to confront their impulsive Vegas marriage. They apologize, exchange numbers, and agree to seek an annulment and keep it secret, especially from Eloise’s family and Foster. Jasper consents, though the secrecy stings.
Left alone, Jasper wrestles with guilt about lying to Foster, his best friend and fighter. He runs to clear his head, texts briefly with Foster, and realizes the secret could damage their friendship. He resolves to address it.
Jasper goes to The Eloise Inn, but Eloise pretends not to know him in public and hurries away. Angry and conflicted, Jasper follows her through quiet streets to her small house. Inside, Eloise chastises him for risking exposure and spirals about losing her parents’ trust and the pending transfer of the hotel if the marriage becomes public.
As Eloise panics about responsibility and reputation, Jasper pushes back against the pressure she feels. Their argument and tension crest; Jasper kisses her, and Eloise relaxes into it. The chapter ends with their rekindled attraction undermining their plan to keep distance while pursuing an annulment.
Who Appears
- Jasper ValeNarrator; agrees to a secret annulment, struggles with lying to Foster, follows Eloise home, and kisses her.
- EloiseWants annulment and secrecy to protect her bid to run The Eloise; avoids Jasper publicly; panics, then kisses him.
- Foster MaddenJasper’s best friend and fighter; texts Jasper; central to Jasper’s guilt about keeping the marriage secret.
- TaliaFoster’s partner; mentioned in travel and as part of the circle whose trust Jasper values.