Chapter 1190:


    Eric tried to speak, but the words clung to him, stuck in his throat.


    There were so many things he wanted to say, but only one made it out. “Okay.”


    “Fine. I’ll head out then.” Hadley turned without hesitation. She didn’t look back as she walked out, her steps slow but certain.


    “Hadley… Hadley,” he whispered her name, barely louder than a breath, watching her fade down the hallway.


    What he didn’t say—what sat heavy in his chest—was, “Stay. Please stay. I’ll always protect you and Joy, just like I did this time. I swear I will.”


    But the words stayed locked inside.


    Because it was obvious—she didn’t want his protection, nor did she want his love.


    Ferris had to bring her here—against her will.


    Hadley’s feelings for him had faded the moment he sent her to the. Now, there was nothing left between them—not a single romantic spark.


    He had saved Brady, and for that, she showed him kindness. But that was the end of it. Nothing more woulde of it.


    Eric shut his eyes, feeling the weight of her words pressing down on him.


    She had made it clear with every word she said, that whatever they had was finished.


    “Hadley…” His eyes stung, wet with something he couldn’t quite name.


    He murmured, “I get it. I really do.”


    All preparations for the transnt wereplete, and the surgery was scheduled for the day after tomorrow.


    That evening, Brady woke up feeling much better. Most of the sedatives had worn off, and his energy had returned.


    The following morning, he and Hadley went to see Dr. Duncan for the final pre-surgery consultation.


    They had already gone over every detail and procedure in past discussions, so this visit was mostly procedural. Both signed the necessary consent forms at the end of the consultation.


    As they walked out of the doctor’s office, Brady trailed behind Hadley and said, “It’s been days since Ist saw Joy. I miss her so much…”


    When they opened the door to Joy’s hospital room, they were greeted by the sound of herughter.


    “Eric, it tickles!”


    It seemed Eric hade to visit.


    Hadley paused, surprised. Was he well enough to be out of bed already? Hearing the noise from the door, Eric looked up and gave the siblings a nod. “I came to see Joy.”


    He hade as soon as he was able to get out of bed. He didn’t even bother to freshen up. A shadow of stubble darkened his jaw.


    Just moments ago, he’d been teasing Joy. He brushed his rough cheek against hers, making her burst into giggles.


    Hadley offered him a smile. “Feeling better? Are you sure you should be up and walking around?”


    “I’m alright,” said Eric, shaking his head. “I feel a lot better now.”


    “Are you also sick, Eric?” Joy’s smile faded. She tugged on his sleeve, concern in her eyes.


    Eric chuckled and tapped her nose. “I was. But seeing you cured me.”


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    Message from Noah: New novels in a few hours, hope you like them dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (?? ? ??)?


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