?Chapter 38:


    “Get to know the stage well and prepare thoroughly for your performance. This is significant, and I expect nothing less than your best.”


    “Understood, Mr. Lewis.”


    Hadley approached her preparations with diligence, meticulously checking the choreography and confirming the musical arrangements for the performance.


    Over theing days, she knew rigorous practice was crucial to ensure a wless execution.


    As the rehearsal concluded, evening had already begun to fall.


    Instead of returning to Silver Vis, Hadley had another mission—N had requested she visit Ernest. With a full schedule the following day, tonight was her only opportunity.


    She purchased a bouquet of yellow ca lilies, chosen for their representation of respect.


    Visiting Ernest was something she wanted to do, despite her previous reservations about the Flynn family’s reception of her—they still viewed her as the one responsible for the death of Ernest and Linda’s child.


    Reflecting on her initial encounters with the Flynn family, Hadley recalled that Ernest had been in good health, a stark contrast to his current condition.


    Ernest’s demeanor had always been more refined than Eric’s, reminiscent of the noble characters from her favorite novels. Being a few years older, Ernest had always seemed like a loving brother to Hadley. His kindness had made her feel as though she truly belonged, offering a sibling’s affection she had never known.


    Upon arriving at the hospital, Hadley navigated to the ward she remembered. However, Ernest was no longer there.


    Left with no other option, she dialed N’s number.


    “N, has Ernest been moved from this hospital? I can’t seem to find him.”


    “What?” N sounded surprised. “Are you there by yourself? Where’s Eric?”


    Mindful of N’s uing surgery, Hadley upheld hermitment. “Eric’s tied up, but I’m fine on my own.”


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    N let out a weary sigh. “Fine, here’s what you need to know. Ernest is still at the hospital. They’ve added a new wing, and he’s currently there. Head towards the rear of the building.”


    It turned out Ernest had been relocated to the new VIP section.


    “Got it, I’m on my way there now.”


    After ending the call, Hadley headed towards the new wing.


    Upon entering the hospital room, the sharp scent of disinfectant hung heavily in the air.


    Approaching the bed, Hadley observed the resting man and quickly felt a lump form in her throat. She tenderly grasped his hand, tears starting to stream down her cheeks.


    “Ernest, it’s Hadley. I’m here to visit you.”


    The man on the bed did not react to Hadley’s presence. Despite the years that had slipped by, Ernest still looked much the same, as if he were merely asleep.


    Memories of Ernest, vibrant and driven, flooded Hadley’s mind. She struggled toe to terms with the reality, even after all this time. It seemed so unjust that such a kind person could endure such a fate.


    Ernest was a good man, yet he had spent years lying there in aa. Chances were, he would never wake up.


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