?Chapter 814:


    As he stepped out, Ernest’s voice called him back. “Eric.”


    Eric turned, a fleeting shadow of fragility crossing his face—Ernest didn’t miss it.


    Ernest’s eyes held firm, but his tone melted into something gentler. “Come what may, I’ve got your back.”


    A lump rose in Eric’s throat, but he managed a grin. “I know. Thanks, Ernest.”


    “Go on, then.” Ernest shooed him off and shut the door.


    The Cayenne purred forward, pausing briefly before Linda.


    Eric slid back into the Bentley, where Hadley lounged against the seat, eyes shut, lost in slumber.


    He reached out, drawing her close. She didn’t stir, sleeping soundly in his embrace.


    Eric gazed at her peaceful face, his resolve unshaken.


    Hadley’s warmth toward him had shifted out of the blue.


    Was it his injury sparking genuine concern in her heart? Or had she epted her fate, tethered to him by the child she carried, knowing he would never let her slip away?


    Whatever the cause, Eric was thankful she hadn’t drifted from his side. “Hadley,” Eric whispered, his voice soft as a prayer. “Stick with me, darling—don’t ever leave.”


    As the Bentley rolled up to Silver Vis, Eric was mulling over how to whisk Hadley inside with just one good arm when her eyes fluttered open, sparing him the trouble.


    “We’re home?” she murmured, blinking sleepily. “Why didn’t you nudge me awake?”


    Eric let out a softugh. “You’ve got impable timing. My arm’s aching—mind if I just hold your hand instead?”


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    He extended his hand, a quiet invitation, and guided Hadley out of the car. Together, they strolled into the warmth of the vi.


    The moment they crossed the threshold, Hadley inhaled deeply, a grin tugging at her lips. “Something smells divine! Fiona, what is simmering in that pot?”


    “Miss Pearson, Mr. Flynn,” Fiona called from the kitchen, “it’s beef soup—rich and hearty.”


    Hadley tugged Eric to the table, gesturing at his bandaged arm. “Perfect timing—you need to replenish.”


    “Fair enough,” Eric agreed, his smile as warm as the meal.


    “Oh, by the way,” Hadley said between spoonfuls, her tone shifting to business, “can we call off Theodore’s shadow act? I don’t need a babysitter.”


    Eric arched a brow, his reply simple but firm.


    “He should stay by your side.”


    Hadley’s gaze flicked to Eric’s arm. “If Theodore had been with you today, you probably wouldn’t have gotten hurt.”


    “What’s this? Worried about me?” Eric teased, taking Hadley’s hand and giving it a gentle squeeze.


    “Yes,” Hadley admitted, her lips pursing as she nodded. “A knife attack? That is the stuff of nightmares!”


    “No need to fret,” Eric said, sliding his arm around Hadley’s waist and pulling her onto hisp. His hand settled on her belly, protective and steady.


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