?Chapter 1259:


    Eric had seen Hadley unravel like this before. Every time, it red up after a man’s touch.


    When they had first started out, she had recoiled from him, wary and guarded. Over time, though, she had softened, letting him in bit by bit.


    And that half brick…


    He had seen it before.


    Back when Hadley had just returned to Srixby, she had fended off some lowlifes with a brick just like it,nding herself in a police station for her trouble.


    Had she been carrying one ever since? But why?


    Eric’s silence grew heavier, his frown deepening.


    There was so much about Hadley he still didn’t understand.


    Hadley stirred not long after, her eyes fluttering open about twenty minutester.


    “You’re awake?”


    Eric’s voice was soft, his face close as he leaned over her.


    “How do you feel?” He took her hand, his smile warm and steady.


    Hadley shifted, testing her body. “I’m okay… just a bit of a crick in my neck.”


    That would be from when he had knocked her out, Eric realized with a pang.


    Hadley’s gaze flickered as memory flooded back.


    “That reporter earlier—he was tailing me, acting all sneaky. I misjudged the situation and attacked him. Is he alright?”


    “Humph.” Eric gave a wry huff. “The guy was up to no good, so he had iting.”


    To soothe Hadley, he added, “Don’t fret. He’s got a banged-up arm, but we’ve sent him to the hospital. His camera is smashed, but we’ll cover the cost.”


    “Okay.” Hadley exhaled, relieved.


    She nced around, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings.


    “Where are we?”


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    “Olisvale Bay,” Eric replied. “My ce.”


    Without needing words, Hadley understood why Eric had brought her here.


    Propping herself up, she eased into a sitting position. “I should get going.”


    Eric reached out, his hand steadying her. “It’ste, and you haven’t eaten. How about a quick meal before you head out?”


    By now, Melba and Joy would likely have had their dinner and be settling in for the night.


    “The cook has whipped up something nice,” Eric added. “Come on and have a bite.”


    “Alright,” Hadley agreed, not pushing back. “Thank you.”


    “Let’s go.”


    In the dining room, the table was elegantly set, a warm spread awaiting them.


    Eric guided Hadley to her seat. “Start with some soup—it’ll do you good.”


    “Okay.” Hadley nodded, her head dipping as she took small, careful sips.


    Eric watched her, her calm exterior a stark contrast to the storm earlier. His gaze softened, and he chose his words with care.


    “Hadley, you really gave me quite a scare tonight. Earlier, you looked right through me, like I was a stranger.”


    Hadley froze, the spoon in her hand hovering midair.


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