?Chapter 253:


    At that, Hadley looked up sharply, her eyes shing with anger.


    “Okay, fine, I’ll drop it,” Eric said, raising his hands in a gesture of surrender. “I’m heading out.”


    He stepped back twice, giving her a quick smile, and then turned and walked down the steps.


    As Eric’s footsteps receded, Hadley’s expression grew more troubled. What was his motive? Why didn’t he let her go?


    That same night, Eric gathered with his friends at Gnt. Denver was present as well. Earlier, when Eric had called Marshall, he had made it a point to include Denver.


    From the moment Denver arrived, he couldn’t take his eyes off the stage.


    Growing restless from not spotting Hadley, he abruptly stood. “I need to use the restroom.”


    Shortly after he left, Eric rose as well.


    Barrie and Marshall exchanged confused looks before Barrie teased, “What’s the deal with those two tonight? Off to the bathroom before we’ve even had a drink?”


    “I know, right?” Marshall echoed, his voice tinged with amusement. Barrie’sughter filled the air.


    Instead of the bathroom, Denver was discreetly heading backstage, eager for a moment with Hadley.


    “Denver.”


    Suddenly, a familiar voice halted him.


    “Eric?”


    Turning, Denver felt an unexpected surge of nervousness.


    “Seems like you’re lost?” Eric gave a knowing smile and draped an arm around Denver’s shoulders. “You’ve been here so many times, yet you still can’t find the bathroom?”


    With a gentle tug, he steered Denver in a new direction. “Let’s go. I’ll show you the way.”


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    “Sure.”


    Without other options, Denver allowed himself to be led, and they both entered the bathroom together.


    They stood next to each other, attending to their own needs in silence.


    “Denver.”


    Eric broke the silence unexpectedly.


    “Hmm?” Startled, Denver turned to him. “Yes, Eric? What’s up?”


    “I know you were trying to find Hadley backstage,” Eric said without turning, his eyes straight ahead. “She’s not here tonight, though.”


    Hearing this, Denver felt a shock pulse through him, his heart momentarily racing.


    Eric continued to face forward, knowing well the impact of his words on Denver’s expression.


    “You…” Denver swallowed hard. “How do you know that?”


    Eric didn’t reply.


    Turning to face Denver directly, he said with firm intent, “Denver, hear me out—stop chasing Hadley. You two are not a good match. Just let her go.”


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