?Chapter 265:


    “Mr. Flynn, I’ll mentor her.”


    “Thank you, Ms. Nicolson.” Eric’s expression transformed into a warm smile, a sight seldom seen. “Hadley is now under your guidance, and for that, I am deeply appreciative. Should she step out of line, I hope you’ll be lenient with her.”


    nche lifted an eyebrow in intrigue. The dynamics between Hadley and Eric were clearly not typical. It made sense now how Hadley had managed to engage someone of Eric’s stature.


    nche then pondered why Hadley had previously struggled so much in the, especially with such influential backing. Yet, she chose to keep her musings to herself, responding with a nod and a pleasant smile. “Great.”


    Exiting the dance studio, Hadley remained quiet the entire journey. Eric nced over at her. At this moment, she seemed surprisingly docile, like a turtle retreating into its shell. She disyed no resistance, only subdued agreement.


    “Why the silence?” Eric teased yfully. “You were quite upset earlier on our way here.”


    Hadley continued to keep her gaze down, offering no response.


    “Is something bothering you?”


    Eric sensed her distress and extended his hand toward her.


    “Please don’t…”


    Hadley averted her face, clearly ufortable with his approach. Respecting her space, Eric held back, noticing the tremor in her voice that hinted at tears.


    He hesitated and then asked softly, “Is everything alright? Are you crying?”


    Without a word, Hadley turned away from him, her slight frame visibly shaking.


    “Are tears actually falling?” Eric asked, concern growing.


    He moved closer and gently ced his hands on her shoulders, trying to turn her to face him. “Let me look at you…”


    “What for?”


    Hadley whipped around, her eyes red and teary as she met his gaze. “Why do you have to see? Do you find this interesting? Isn’t itmon to see someone cry?”


    Her defiance was evident as she lifted her chin. “Well, if you’re so fascinated, go ahead and stare!”


    Eric recoiled from her sharp reaction and quickly withdrew his hands. “I didn’t mean it like that,” he murmured, his words tumbling out hastily. “I didn’t mean to offend. I was just concerned about you…”


    “Concerned?” Hadley’s expression was a mix of tearfulness and a wry smile. “You’re odd! Why would you arrange this for me?”


    “What?” Taken aback, Eric hesitated. “Isn’t it what you wanted? You don’t want to work with Ms. Nicolson?”


    Hadley looked at him, tears continuing to trace her cheeks, yet she said nothing.


    Eric’s confidence wavered.


    “You truly don’t like it?”


    Her tears seemed to answer loudly.


    “I didn’t realize it upset you so deeply…” Hastily, he added, “I’ll speak with Ms. Nicolson immediately. You don’t have to go through with this…” With that, he turned to leave.


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