?Chapter 178:


    Hadley maintained herposure, though her heart raced. The fear was evident—she was worried that Eric might lose his cool and create a disturbance.


    However, he remainedposed.


    His curiosity quickly dissipated. “My apologies for the disruption, Mr. Murray. I must attend to anothermitment and will need to leave now.”


    “Absolutely.” Duran, visibly anxious, hastened to show him out. “Take care, Mr. Flynn.”


    Eric dismissed the formality with a casual wave. “Don’t bother seeing me out.”


    And with that, he exited.


    The moment the door closed, Hadley exhaled a silent, lengthy breath. Relief washed over her. The crisis had been averted.


    “Hadley.” Duran returned, guiding her back to her seat. After a pause, he awkwardly said, “About what just happened…”


    He studied her face before continuing, “I apologize. You understand our situation… It’s not easy for me to be entirely forting.” His role was delicate.


    Though he was officially divorced and single, any connection with a woman of Hadley’s background might jeopardize his professional reputation.


    Hadley wasn’t someone who could easily step into the limelight. Yet, Hadley gave a calm nod, showing no concern. “I get it. No need for exnations.”


    “That’s reassuring.”


    Duran wasforted by her understanding and discretion, which deepened his sense of responsibility toward her.


    With a sigh of relief and a smile, he reassured her. “While we may need to keep some things low-key, I promise topensate in other ways. I’ve secured a ce for you to live—it’s currently being set up. Soon, you’ll be able to move in.”


    This ce would be their private retreat, a sanctuary away from prying eyes.


    Recognizing the dynamics of their arrangement, Hadley offered no objections. “I trust your judgment.”


    Shifting the topic, Duran added, “I had nned to send some money to your family, but…”


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    He had recently learned that she had no family left.


    “So here’s the n,” he said, locking eyes with her. “The money will go to you instead. You’re on your own now, so use it however you see fit—save it, spend it, or maybe even start a small business. It’s entirely up to you.”


    “Mr. Murray…” Upon hearing his offer, Hadley couldn’t contain herself. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she felt a tightness in her throat.


    She had intended to request financial help once their arrangements were in order… Yet, he had anticipated her needs.


    Indeed, their rtionship was transactional—he was her patron. However, the fact remained that when she was most in need, he had generously stepped forward.


    Reflecting on her child Joy, who was far off in the, Hadley pressed her lips together. For her daughter’s sake, she had to persevere.


    “What’s the matter?” Noticing her tears, Duran reached for a tissue and offered it to her. “Why the tears?”


    “Mr. Murray.” Hadley shook her head, her voice thick with emotion. “Thank you… I really mean it. Thank you.”


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