?Chapter 196:


    Eric chose to bear this hope and potential heartache alone until there was undeniable proof of Ernest’s recovery. Should Ernest awaken, it would be a moment for collective joy. But if not, the weight of the disappointment would rest solely on Eric’s shoulders.


    N was making a steady recovery following her operation. Over recent days, she had been preparing to leave the healthcare facility. Looking ahead, her recovery would be better supported at home, especially given the resources at the Flynn family’s disposal, which surpassed any facility’s capabilities.


    On N’s release day, Hadley paid her a visit.


    “Hadley,” N’s face brightened, and she grasped Hadley’s hand warmly. “You’re always the first to show up, such a dear.”


    At that moment, Eric swung the door open and stepped in. Catching sight of Hadley, a spark of joy shed in his eyes, and his voice betrayed a cheerful note.


    With a yful raise of his eyebrow, he jokingly said, “So, my nights here count for nothing, Grandma?”


    “Stop fishing forpliments,” N replied, patting Hadley’s hand. “Hadley is far more considerate than you. You just stand there like you’re barely even present.”


    Eric chuckled. “Alright, Hadley wins hands down.”


    “That’s right.” N drew Hadley in closer, making her intentions clear. “Hadley, you’re staying at my ce for the next few days.” Her statement was decisive, leaving no room for debate.


    Caught off guard, Hadley faltered. “N, this… doesn’t seem right, does it?”


    With the current state of her rtionship with Eric, moving into the Flynn residence felt inappropriate and questionable.


    “Why wouldn’t that be right?”


    N’s gaze hardened slightly. “Does the fact that you and Eric aren’t together mean you stop caring about me as well?”


    “That’s not it at all,” Hadley quickly shook her head.


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    “Then do as I said.”


    N’s expression softened. “You are like my own beloved granddaughter, and you always will be, no matter what. I’ve just been discharged, so is it too much to ask for yourpany for a few days?”


    At that, Hadley found it hard to decline.


    To bolster N’s request, Eric added his persuasion, “Hadley, please agree. Linda is away, and Grandma could really use thepany.” It would seem quite unkind to decline now.


    Left with little option, Hadley conceded. “Okay, I’ll stay for a bit.”


    “Wonderful.” N expressed her approval, gently patting Hadley’s hand and caressing her hair. “You’re such a sweetheart.”


    Given her uing stay, Hadley needed to gather some belongings from her apartment. N asked Eric to ensure she returned safely to the Flynn Mansion.


    Eric would have volunteered regardless of N’s suggestion. Once at West Twelfth Alley, Hadley quickly packed her essentials, and they set off for the Flynn Mansion.


    During the drive, Hadley suddenly remembered to ask, “By the way, do you know when Linda will be back?”


    “In a couple of days. What makes you ask?”


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