?Chapter 16:


    Hadley gave a nod and watched as he vanished into the second floor.


    Heeding his instruction, she remained motionless, lost in her thoughts. After some time, Eric came back.


    He settled onto the sofa and nonchntly motioned toward the chair opposite him.


    “Take a seat.”


    “Okay.”


    Once seated across from each other, Eric pulled out a folder andid it before Hadley.


    “Review this. If all looks good, go ahead and sign it.”


    Hadley nced at the papers before her.


    They spelled out the inevitable—a divorce settlement.


    Eric said in a detached tone,


    “This should have been finalized four years back.”


    “However, Grandma was opposed, and I respected her wishes. But now…”


    Hadley raised her eyes to meet his.


    “Has shee around to it?”


    Eric paused, his expression tightening.


    “No, she hasn’t.”


    N’s resolve was inevitable. Despite the passing years, she held on to hope. Her intention in bringing Hadley back was ast-ditch effort to reconcile them.


    Was reconciliation even a possibility?


    He was mentally prepared for this oue.


    “I’ve never cared for you, and you’re well aware of that. This marriage was doomed from the start. Nearly four years have passed. It’s time we put an end to it.”


    Hadley remained silent as she listened.


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    Upon seeing her quiet, Eric’s brow furrowed.


    “If you’re not on board, I will need to initiate the divorce proceedings myself. It’s been more than two years since we separated. The court will surely side with me.”


    “There’s no need for that,” Hadley cut in softly before he could continue. “I consent to the divorce.”


    “You do?” Eric’s reaction was one of surprise.


    “Yes,” Hadley replied, nodding again. “I consent.”


    Eric was truly taken aback. He had braced for some resistance, recalling Hadley’s once deep feelings for him.


    He hadn’t expected such an easy agreement.


    Yet, this was undoubtedly favorable news for him.


    Recovering from his initial astonishment, Eric quirked an eyebrow.


    “Well then, please sign here.”


    “Alright.”


    He passed the pen to Hadley.


    She scrutinized the document carefully before shaking her head in refusal.


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