?Chapter 219:


    “What? But…”


    “N, we agreed I’d only stay with you for a few days, remember?” Indeed, Hadley was simply sticking to their original n.


    N let out a resigned sigh. “Alright, but promise me you’ll visit us often. We’ll always be your family.”


    “I know,” Hadley replied with a lightugh.


    Just as Hadley ended the call, Lennon strolled into the room.


    Following him were two delivery people, one bncing takeout and the other holding a bouquet of flowers. The dressing area was nearly overflowing with items.


    “Hadley,” Lennon said, shing a yful grin. “These are from Mr. Flynn.”


    But Hadley felt no joy at the gesture.


    A cold shiver ran through her, and an uneasy feeling settled in her chest, leaving her heart racing with dread.


    Once the performance wrapped up, Hadley received a call from Eric. She hesitated to answer, but knew she couldn’t dodge him forever. Finally, she had no choice but to pick up.


    “Hello?”


    “What time do you finish tonight?” Eric’s tone was firm. “I’m on my way. Wait for me. I’ll pick you up.”


    “That’s not necessary…”


    As soon as Eric caught her protest, he cut her off. “Not asking for your opinion, Hadley. I’m telling you. Got it?” With that, he hung up.


    Holding her phone, Hadley anxiously bit her fingertip. She couldn’t wrap her head around his sudden change in demeanor.


    She knew the ways of the world well enough. She recognized that Eric was behaving in a way that clearly hinted at a man’s interest in a woman. But the thought of Eric actually liking her? That seemed far-fetched. She didn’t care about his reasons. All she wanted was for him to leave her be.


    Then she recalled Eric’s earlier words about being on his way. Panic surged through her as she hurriedly wiped off her makeup, grabbed her things, and dashed toward the nightclub’s entrance.


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    “Hadley!”


    Just as she reached the door, a hand grasped her arm.


    “Huh?”


    It was Denver.


    Seeing the concern etched on Hadley’s face, Denver frowned. “Hadley, what’s going on? Are you alright?”


    Hadley looked rattled, as if she had just encountered a ghost. She faltered, forcing a weak smile. “It’s nothing, really. I’m just tired and need to get home.”


    “Is that all?” Denver pressed, his tone skeptical.


    “Yes, it is.” Naturally, she couldn’t tell him the truth.


    “Alright.” Checking his watch, Denver said, “I was about to head out myself. Let me give you a ride.”


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