?Chapter 165:


    Upon seeing her freeze, Eric’s brow creased. “What? You don’t like it?”


    She shook her head quickly. “No, I love it. Thank you.”


    She had no clue why he was being so oddly generous, but she wasn’t about to risk saying otherwise.


    Who knew if he’d get annoyed and haul her back to the police station?


    “As long as you like it.”


    Eric leaned back, content.


    The candy melted on his tongue, and before he even realized it, his lips curved into an easy, satisfied smile.


    Back at her apartment, Hadley’s phone buzzed.


    It had been vibrating in the car earlier. Not in the mood to deal with it, she had put it on silent.


    But whoever was calling wasn’t giving up.


    It was well past midnight now, and Hadley almost felt sorry for their persistence.


    She sighed and answered. “Hello…”


    “Hadley!”


    The voice on the other end was frantic. “Why couldn’t I get through? Are you alright? Did the police give you trouble?”


    Hadley smirked inwardly. His concern always arrived toote.


    “I’m fine, and I’m hanging up now…”


    “Wait!”


    The desperation in his voice cut through. “About the money. I left in a hurry and forgot to give you the check. I’ve got everything set. Let’s meet, and I’ll hand it over…”


    “No need.”


    “Hadley?” His confusion was palpable. “Are you mad?”


    Hadley dodged the question, focusing on what she needed to say. “I’ll figure out the money another way. As for you, we’re done. After this call, I’m blocking you. Please don’t reach out again.”


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    “Had—”


    She didn’t wait to hear the rest. Without hesitation, she hung up and blocked his number.


    Tilting her face upward, Hadley blinked hard.


    How could she have been so foolish? How many times did she have to trip over the same mistake before she learned? Reaching out to him had been a misstep, but after tonight, she wouldn’t make the same mistake again.


    He would never know what she endured alone every time he chose to turn away.


    She shut her eyes, feeling the sting behind her lids.


    “Don’t cry, Hadley,” she murmured to herself. “Don’t cry.”


    She had to figure something out. For Joy’s sake, she would.


    That night, the nightclub pulsed with its usual opulence and energy. Hadley remained the reigning star of the stage, but ever since that…


    After the infamous toasting incident, everyone knew she was under Eric’s favor. So, they watched from a respectful distance. No one dared to step out of line.


    But as time went on, the whispers started.


    Eric didn’t seem as invested in his star performer anymore. Word on the street was that his interest had been fleeting, a passing spark that had long since fizzled out.


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