?Chapter 29:


    “How can we overlook introductions at your own wee home party?”


    Not only N, but Eric and Linda also gave Hadley bewildered looks, their expressions filled with curiosity.


    Hadley paid no mind to their stares and offered N a reassuring smile.


    “Don’t worry about it. Your generosity in arranging this event is more than enough for me. The finer details aren’t important.”


    “But…”


    Hadley noticed N’s lingering concern and reassured her further.


    “There will be other opportunities.”


    That seemed to resolve the matter.


    N took Hadley’s hand gently and gave it aforting pat.


    “I’m so sorry things unfolded like this.”


    “Please, there’s no need for apologies. I’m quite alright.”


    As she withdrew her hand, Hadley insisted,


    “The guests shouldn’t be kept waiting. Go ahead without me. I’m not quite dressed for the asion.”


    N exhaled a resigned sigh, torn but epting.


    “Look after yourself, and let’s chatter.”


    “Of course.”


    “N.” With a warm smile, Linda looped her arm through N’s.


    “Don’t be upset. Now that Hadley’s here, she’ll have plenty of time to spend with you. Why don’t I apany you this evening?”


    “N.” With a chuckle, N affectionately squeezed Linda’s hand. “I love you too. Both of you are like granddaughters to me.”


    They shared augh and moved on.


    Eric initially followed but paused after a few paces, turning to look back at Hadley.


    He observed her retreating figure from afar.


    Her silhouette appeared solitary, prompting a frown from Eric… Had he been too harsh?


    “Eric?”


    Linda realized he wasgging behind and turned to see him staring at Hadley from afar.


    She bit her lip slightly. “Did my earlier words upset you?”


    “No.” Eric reassured her as he met her gaze. “You were protecting Grandma from worry. You acted appropriately. Why would I hold that against you?”


    Linda’s face lit up with relief.


    “I appreciate your understanding. Shall we?”


    “Sure.”


    Hadley found herself at a secluded table, surrounded by strangers. Not recognizing anyone suited her just fine—she preferred solitude anyway.


    Yet, her expectations for a quiet evening were quickly dashed. Her tablemates whispered and nced at her attire disapprovingly.


    “Who is that?”


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