?Chapter 221:


    Someone like Denver, a regr at Gnt, reminded her too much of Duran. He had once looked at her the same way.


    But things were different now. She no longer had to make desperate choices. With Joy’s medical expenses taken care of, Hadley had no reason to sell herself ever again. That part of her life was over.


    Denver watched her hesitate, his brows knitting slightly. “What’s wrong? You don’t like it?”


    “Not exactly.”


    Realizing she’d drifted too far into her thoughts, Hadley quickly forced a small smile. “I just didn’t want your car smelling like soup.”


    “What?”


    Denver arched an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes. “A little sweetness in the air never hurt anyone, Hadley.”


    Caught off guard by his easygoing response, she let out a softugh. “Well, in that case, I won’t hold back.”


    “Be my guest.”


    As Hadley lifted the lid, a warm, creamy scent drifted up, wrapping around her like aforting embrace. She inhaled deeply, savoring it before taking a spoonful.


    Hadley let the warm, rich soup melt on her tongue, a satisfied murmur escaping her. “It’s delicious.”


    “d to hear it.” Denver nced at her, catching the way her expression softened. His lips curved into a small smile, warmth settling quietly in his chest.


    When they reached Mayfield Road, Denver eased the car to a stop as Hadley asked.


    Hadley stepped out of the car, smoothing her skirt as she turned back. “This is my stop. Thanks for the ride.”


    Denver raised a brow, clearly caught off guard. “You live around here?” He had assumed she stayed at the Flynn Mansion.


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    “I do,” Hadley admitted. “I was just visiting N after her surgery. But I’m not actually part of…”


    The Flynn family, so I can’t stay there forever.” Something in Denver’s chest eased at her words.


    So, she wasn’t tied to Eric after all.


    His lips curved into an easy smile. “That makes sense.”


    “Alright, I’ll head in now.” Hadley lifted a hand in farewell. “Drive safe. Goodnight.”


    “Goodnight.”


    Without another nce, she turned and disappeared into the alley.


    The dim glow of her phone screen guided her up the worn-out stairs to the fifth floor. At her door, she slid the key into the lock, pushed it open, and flicked on the lights.


    As she stepped inside, she reached back to close the door.


    Bang!


    A hand mmed against the wood, stopping it cold.


    Startled, Hadley froze—


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