?Chapter 118:


    “I hear you, I do.”


    At that moment, what choice did Eric have? He squeezed N’s hand in affirmation and nodded. “Rest easy, Grandma. I’ll honor your wishes. I promise.”


    The doctor arrived promptly, administered an injection to N, andpleted his examination.


    “It’s nothing serious, merely a spike in emotional stress. Still, try to avoid such stress in the future.”


    “Got it.”


    “Thanks for your help, doctor.”


    Following the injection, N drifted into a peaceful sleep.


    Leaving the room, Eric was closely followed by Hadley.


    “Eric.” Hadley mustered her bravery to break the silence.


    “Yes?” Eric responded, his gaze cold and distant. In his eyes, she had be a betrayer, someone who had deceived him.


    “Say your piece directly to me and keep Grandma out of it next time.”


    Hadley’s heart constricted, yet she held back her retort. “Today was an oversight on my part, but it won’t impede our separation. I’m still prepared to proceed when you are…”


    “Stop,” Eric interjected, his patience worn thin by her seemingly rehearsed speech. “Spare me the act. We both know a divorce isn’t possible right now, so why even say that?”


    Silence fell as Hadley struggled to find the right words.


    It was truly an unfortunate coincidence, leaving her without a usible exnation.


    Eric scoffed dismissively, eying her with a cold gaze. “Why cling to me like this? What do you gain from it?”


    He didn’t wait for her to respond and strode away.


    Rooted to the spot, Hadley massaged her temples, overwhelmed by her own misfortune.


    ???????? ???????????????? ????????  g???????ν?????????????


    That evening at Gnt, Eric was absent.


    Following her performance, Hadley walked backstage to find the doorway to her dressing room overrun with bouquets.


    “Hadley!”


    Lennon approached with a flourish, visibly thrilled. “Look at this spectacle! These blossoms, and more inside—all courtesy of Mr. Flynn!”


    “I was actually quite anxious earlier because Mr. Flynn, who usually attends, didn’t show up—” Lennon said, unable to hide his excitement. “But look at this! My worry was for nothing. Even though Mr. Flynn isn’t here, he’s still thinking about you.”


    Really?


    Hadley managed a smile, though it felt somewhat absurd.


    When she was his wife, Eric barely noticed her. Now, hidden behind a mask, she had somehow caught his eye.


    Who would have thought Eric would be captivated by a dancer of all people?


    She pondered his potential reaction upon discovering who was behind the mask. Disappointment? Or perhaps even anger?


    Regardless, she was certain it wouldn’t be a wee surprise.


    .


    .


    .