?Chapter 148:


    “Mr. Flynn.” Her voice was measured. “A toast—to your generosity… and all that you’ve done.”


    Eric’s gaze flicked from her face to the ss she offered, lingering just a moment too long.


    Then, a sneer danced at the corners of his lips.


    He reached out, inhaling deeply as he took the ss, closing his eyes and savoring a sip of the wine.


    “‘A ’72 Chianti,” he said, a hint of ironycing his tone. “You’ve got taste.”


    “Well…” Lennon trailed off before adding, “Hadley picked it herself—sharp instincts, don’t you think?”


    Eric tilted his head, his eyes settling on her. Did she, now?


    He didn’t respond. Didn’t offer a reaction. Just arched a brow—then, with effortless confidence, brought the ss to his lips and drained it.


    In one smooth motion, Eric closed the space between them like a striking viper. His hand caught the back of Hadley’s head before she could move.


    Her breath faltered. Her body went still. “Mr. Flynn?”


    Eric didn’t answer—not immediately. His grip remained firm, holding her in ce, his breath brushing against her ear as he spoke in a voice meant only for her.


    “If you’re so determined to ruin yourself, I won’t stand in your way.” His tone was ice-cold, edged with something sharper—a warning, a promise. “But don’t think for a second there won’t be consequences.”


    Hadley’s body stiffened, every instinct urging her to recoil, but she refused to let him see even a flicker of hesitation. Instead, she forced a small, unwavering smile. “Don’t worry, Mr. Flynn.” Her voice was quiet and steady. “I’ve made my choice. Even if it leads to a dead end, I won’t turn back.”


    Fine. Let her have it.


    Eric’s fingers loosened, his gaze flickering away as though releasing something far heavier than just her. Without another word, he turned on his heel and strode out, his exit swift and final.


    The moment the door clicked shut, Hadley let out a long, unsteady breath. Her knees wavered, and she staggered back, catching herself against the wall.


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    “Wait… What?”


    Lennon’s voice wavered, his mouth slightly open as he tried to process what had just unfolded before him. “Hadley, are you okay?”


    She managed a small nod. “I’m fine.”


    Lennon didn’t look convinced. “Fine? Are you serious? What the hell just happened? Why did Mr. Flynn storm out like that? What did you say to him?”


    Hadley only shook her head. “I’m sorry, but he’s noting back.”


    Lennon’s eyes widened, disbelief crashing over him. “What? What do you mean he’s noting back?”


    Days passed, and Eric never returned to Gnt.


    Lennon could feel it creeping in, curling around his thoughts like an unanswered question. Restless, he finally turned to Hadley, unable to hold back any longer. “Hadley, what really happened between you and Mr. Flynn that night? Just tell me. Maybe I can help figure something out.”


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