?Chapter 281:


    Contrary to Hadley’s assumptions, Eric was more capable than she credited him for. Despite his affluent upbringing, he was capable of learning quickly and asking for help when needed. Momentster, the relentless sound of water ceased.


    Leaping from her seat, Hadley hurried to verify. A grin spread across her face upon discovering the halted flow—Eric had sessfully located and turned off the shutoff valve.


    This minor victory made her reconsider. If he could handle that, surely purchasing a faucet wouldn’t be too challenging for him.


    Indeed, he could manage that as well.


    Right after Hadley changed into dry clothes, Eric came back.


    The vibrant and ever-active West Twelfth Alley had a convenient perk—everything was within walking distance.


    Eric had spotted a hardware store right at the corner during his first visit.


    “Did you manage to get it?” Hadley asked as she walked over. “Great. Now give it to me.”


    “Hold on,” Eric responded, holding the faucet just out of her reach. “Why would I hand it over to you?” he quipped, giving her a sidelong look.


    Hadley was puzzled. “So I can install it.”


    Eric narrowed his eyes, his disbelief evident. Did she really think he couldn’t install a faucet?


    “Why do you need to do this while I’m right here? I’ve got this. Besides, are you sure you know how to do this?”


    Hadley’s lips tightened. Yes, she knew exactly how to do it.


    Eric might have thought the old Hadley didn’t have the skills, but the Hadley who had spent four years in the certainly did.


    She wasn’t just good at recing faucets; she could change light bulbs too.


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    Due to the highbor costs in Aradimen, Hadley had learned to manage on her own rather than spend her limited funds. Over the years, she had be quite adept at various home repairs.


    Eric, unaware of this, was insistent. “I’ll handle it.”


    This was his chance to prove that he was dependable.


    “Bring me the toolbox,” hemanded, and headed towards the sink.


    “Alright.” Hadley agreed, though she harbored doubts about his abilities given his pampered upbringing.


    To her astonishment, Eric managed the task with ease.


    Using his strength, he swiftly reced the faucet.


    Hadley watched, amazed at his capability, something she hadn’t anticipated.


    Eric caught her look of surprise and couldn’t help but feel a bit proud. “There,” he said, lifting an eyebrow.


    “Thank you,” Hadley responded, getting up. “Just wait here a moment.”


    Eric waited without questioning.


    Soon, Hadley returned with a straightforward request. “Take off your shirt.”


    Taken aback, Eric defensively raised his arms, shaking his head. “No way!”


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