?Chapter 278:


    Seeing the actual blood made her think she should at least help clean Eric’s wound.


    The manager nced at Eric, catching his stern look.


    Eric’s expression was forbidding, and he subtly shook his head.


    Promptly, the manager responded with an air of finality, “We don’t stock first-aid supplies here. This is a retail shop, not a medical facility.”


    Hadley, unaware of the silent exchange, looked regretfully at Eric.


    “Should we look for a pharmacy nearby, then?”


    She was sure there would be one open all night somewhere close.


    “Alright,” Eric said, somewhat pleased that Hadley was showing concern.


    Just then, store employees approached with the Minnie Mouse doll, packaged and ready. They looked uncertainly at who they should hand it over to.


    Without thinking, Hadley reached out. “I’ll take it.”


    “Wait.” Eric’s voice cut through, sharp andmanding. “Why assume it’s yours to carry?”


    He extended his hands. “Hand it over here.”


    “Right away, Mr. Flynn,” one employee quickly said, passing the plush toy to Eric. It was an unusual sight, indeed—Eric Flynn, a prominent businessman, carrying arge stuffed animal through a store.


    Hadley couldn’t suppress augh at the unusual sight.


    Eric caught the sound and looked at her with a raised eyebrow. “Are you finding this funny?”


    Trying topose herself, Hadley quickly denied it with a shake of her head. “Not at all.”


    He seemed skeptical but chose to overlook it. Her smile was too charming to ignore.


    “Laugh all you want,” Eric suggested casually. “It suits you better. Crying? Not so much. It makes you look terrible. So, let’s keep the tears away, agreed?”


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    Hadley felt a sting at his words—really?


    She turned her head, her thoughts drifting.


    She just knew that in his eyes, Linda was always the epitome of beauty.


    Fortunately, a 24-hour pharmacy was located just a short distance from the mall.


    “Sebastian can handle the purchase,” Hadley suggested, already edging toward departure. “I think I’ll head home.”


    “Don’t even think about it,” Eric said darkly, tapping his neck where the bite mark still showed. “Imagine Sebastian finding out about this. How am I supposed to maintain any dignity?”


    “Shh!” Hadley urgently motioned with her hands, her voice a whisper. “You’re too loud!”


    Thete hour made their voices carry further, risking unwanted attention.


    With resignation heavy in her voice, Hadley replied, “Alright, I’ll handle it.”


    Eric scoffed, “That’s right, you will.”


    While at the pharmacy, Eric found afortable spot on a bench and made himself at home as Hadley gathered the needed medical supplies.


    Returning, she motioned towards his shirt. “You might want to open your cor so it doesn’t get stained.”


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