?Chapter 1012:


    A gentle softness met Ernest’s touch, much like the inviting caress of a flower’s petal. This new sensation sparked a chill that danced along his spine, wiping his mind clear for a fleeting moment. His body responded instinctively, moving faster than his racing thoughts.


    Gently, Ernest settled Elissa on the couch, caressing her chin before his lips met hers in a tender kiss…


    Surprise flickered in his eyes as their lips touched. He tasted a sweetness that was vibrant and unexpected! Memories of a distant evening flooded back to Ernest when their lips had first met…


    “Mmm…”


    A frown creased the face of the woman in his embrace, her difort manifesting in a quiet whimper. Ernest quickly pulled back, his touch on her face softening. “What’s wrong? Are you ufortable?”


    With a pout forming, Elissa muttered, “Robin…”


    Ernest became motionless, his face betraying no feelings. Was she calling out for Robin? Even in her drunken state, was her mind still upied by that man? Jealousy surged through Ernest like a tidal wave. Could she be mistaking him for Robin, thinking he was the one who had kissed her?


    Releasing his hold, Ernest quickly stood up. As he turned to leave, Elissa’s voice rose feebly from the couch, pleading, “Go… go away! Leave me alone!”


    She wrapped her arms around herself, her sobs barely audible as she kept repeating, “Go away…”


    Upon listening intently, Ernest’s heart softened, and a smile began to form on his face. He realized he might have judged the situation too quickly. How could Elissa still harbor feelings for such a man? Naturally, she would want nothing but to escape him.


    Leaning down, Ernest wrapped his arms around her. In a gentle whisper beside her ear, he said, “He’s not here… don’t worry. He won’t bother you again.”


    Unaware of hisforting words, Elissa drifted off to sleep, tears still trickling down her cheeks. Ernest let out a gentle sigh, pressing his lips to hers once more. As their lips touched gently, she slowly rxed, drifting off into a serene sleep.


    The new day arrived, and Eric was at Hadley’s ce early. The night before, Hadley had wrapped up her filmingte, and Eric, having driven her home, hadn’t had a chance for a proper conversation with her.


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    The door was opened by Melba. Eric presented her with a bag from Grandma’s Kitchen. “Inside are Hadley’s favorite pastries and some bread for Joy.”


    “You always think of everything, Mr. Flynn,” Melba said, epting the bag with a weing smile.


    “Has Hadley woken up?” Eric asked, peering inside.


    “She just woke up and is getting ready. Just a moment…”


    Interrupting Melba, Hadley stepped out of the bathroom, giving him a quick look. “You’re here so early?”


    “Yes,” Eric responded, smiling back. “Joy has a doctor’s appointment today, and I came to support her.”


    Upon hearing his words, Hadley’s heart skipped a beat. She remembered everything vividly, and clearly so did he.


    “There’s still some time before Joy wakes up. We can chat for a bit.” Eric approached, gently took her hand, and they settled down on the sofa. He was familiar with her morning rituals; sharing breakfast with Joy was part of her daily routine.


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