?Chapter 1118:


    The moment those words sank in, Denver felt like his heart might leap out of his chest.


    He turned around suddenly, took two hurried steps, but then nced back at Eric. “Eric, thank you!”


    He didn’t know if the gratitude was for himself or Hadley.


    Either way, he didn’t wait for a reply; he took off running.


    Where was Denver headed? It was obvious.


    Eric stood there, tugging at the corner of his lips.


    His voice was a murmur, barely audible. “Please, take good care of her…


    Promise me you’ll do your best!”


    Eric had failed Hadley, and he only hoped Denver wouldn’t.


    Denver had won Hadley’s affection once, and surely her happinessy with him.


    This was probably thest thing Eric could do for her.


    In a sudden moment, Eric’s eyes fluttered shut, his face cast in shadows that spoke of solitude and sorrow.


    Over at Hadley’s apartment, Joy had sumbed to sleep.


    Havingpleted her nightly stretches, Hadley was drenched in sweat and poised for a refreshing shower.


    Her phone vibrated with a new message. “Are you asleep?”


    It was Denver, unexpectedly reaching out after a long silence; Marshall hadst ced him in Prineville.


    Clutching her phone, Hadley typed back, “Not yet.”


    “Can you step outside for a bit? Joy’s probably sleeping by now, right?


    I’d rather not wake her bying in.”


    Surprised, Hadley wondered if Denver had returned to Srixby from his business trip. Was he actually downstairs right now?


    She hurried to the window and peered out, spotting Denver rxed against his car.


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    He looked up, noticed her, and waved enthusiastically.


    With a slight frown, Hadley nodded and responded, “I’ming down now.”


    “Perfect. I’ll be here.”


    Hadley massaged her temples briefly, then seized her keys and left her apartment.


    Denver greeted her with an infectious smile as she exited the building, his eyes twinkling with happiness.


    “Hadley, it’s really been too long.”


    “It has.” Still processing it all, she gave a small nod. “You seem unusually cheerful.”


    “Absolutely,” Denver couldn’t contain his glee. “I’ve known everything!”


    Hadley was taken aback. “Know what, exactly?”


    “I’m talking about that…” Denver said, pressing his lips together before speaking with quiet honesty. “Joy’s got a matched donor, and that you and Eric… you’re no longer together.”


    Realization dawned on Hadley. That was what he was referring to.


    But how had hee by such personal news?


    “Hadley,” Denver continued, pausing to muster his courage. “Would it be alright if I began to court you?” Now that she was unattached, the possibility hung in the air.


    Hadley’s mouth fell open slightly.


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