?Chapter 205:


    “Look over there. Every family greeted by N includes an unmarried son.”


    One of them eximed in surprise, “What does this mean for us? What’s our move?”


    “Ha!” Anotherughed heartily. “Really? You think the Flynn’s adoptive daughter is somehow beneath you?”


    “It’s not her status as an adoptive member that matters; it’s her history with Mr. Flynn that’s the issue!”


    “Stop being so old-fashioned. So what if she’s been married before?”


    “You’re missing the point,” another replied. “Hadley has a reputation. If shetches onto a man, it’s overwhelming!”


    He faced the group. “Let’s be real—if she were matched with any of you, would you actually be pleased?”


    “Not a chance!”


    “I’m not interested, thanks!”


    Denver’s expression grew troubled as he listened to the banter. Was Hadley still caught up in her feelings for Eric?


    “Time to leave!”


    “We don’t belong in this chatter anyway.”


    The group then moved away, pulling Denver with them.


    Nearby, Eric stood with a stern look, his demeanor cold. Barrie and Marshall were at his sides.


    They caught each other’s eyes—they knew Eric was upset.


    Yet, there was little they could do. Gossip was inevitable; silencing one might work, but quieting a crowd was impossible.


    And truthfully, what they said wasn’t baseless.


    Eric finished his drink quickly, his throat working as he gulped it down. He handed the empty ss to Barrie. “I need to talk to Grandma.”


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    “Eric, wait!”


    Meanwhile, N was enjoying a moment of respite in the lounge, delicately sipping her tea.


    “Grandma.”


    Eric approached swiftly and took a seat opposite her.


    “Are you really so eager to set Hadley up with someone?”


    N eyed her grandson’s troubled expression.


    “What’s got you so worked up? Someone’s words got under your skin, and now I’m the target?”


    “Grandma!”


    He gestured with his hand, loosening his tie, feeling suffocated.


    “You didn’t hear what they were saying about her!”


    “Hmm.” N remained calm, taking another sip of her tea, seemingly indifferent.


    “No, I didn’t hear them. But I can read the distress on your face.”


    “Grandma!” Eric’s tone carried a note of desperation.


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