?Chapter 1352:


    “Let’s see…” The doctor questioned Eric thoroughly about his condition before adding, “Mr. Scott, are you able to bear it?”


    “Why even ask?” Hadley snapped, her anxiety ring. “Just because he can endure it doesn’t mean he should suffer.”


    “Miss Pearson,” the doctor began. “Mr. Scott underwent a finger reattachment procedure. Painkillers don’t only numb the pain—they also dull other sensations. This makes it more difficult to monitor his condition and slows down the healing process. Therefore, unless it’s absolutely required, we try to avoid using them.”<fn624b> Latest content published on find~novel</fn624b>


    Hadley stood frozen, her gaze locked on Eric, a mix of helplessness and concern swirling in her chest.


    “It’s alright,” Eric murmured, his faint smile barely masking the strain in his voice. “Let’s trust the doctor. I can handle it.”


    Hadley slowly nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line.


    What else could she say? This was their only path forward.


    After the doctor departed, Hadley turned to Eric, grappling with how to ease his suffering.


    “Should I grab a towel?” she offered.


    Even wiping the sweat from his brow felt like something.


    “No need,” Eric replied softly.


    As Hadley moved to step away, his hand caught hers, warm and steady.


    Hadley nced down at their joined hands, a flicker of hesitation crossing her face. She considered pulling free, but then—


    “Hadley.” Eric’s voice was low, almost a whisper,ced with a quiet plea. “Stay with me, please. When you’re here, the pain… it’s not so bad.”


    Hadley let out a soft scoff, a wry smile tugging at her lips. “What, you think I’m as gullible as Joy? That I would fall for that line?”


    “Will you stay?” Eric’s lips curved faintly, his grip on her hand gentle but unyielding. “Please?”


    Hadley sighed, her resolve softening. “Fine. Let go of my hand, and I won’t go anywhere.”


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    “Alright…” A shadow of reluctance passed through Eric’s eyes, but he released her hand as she asked.


    True to her word, Hadley pulled a chair to his bedside and settled in. Searching for a way to ease his difort, she asked, “Want to do something to take your mind off it? Maybe watch some TV?”


    “Sure.” Eric nodded, his tone indifferent but willing.


    Hadley rose to switch on the television. “Any preferences? Finance shows?”


    “Nah.” Eric chuckled weakly. “Just a bunch of old guys talking numbers. Boring.”


    Hadley shook her head, a touch exasperated. “A movie, then?”


    “Sounds good.”


    “What kind do you like?”


    “Whatever you’re in the mood for,” Eric said with a faint grin.


    Hadley paused, her finger hovering over the remote.


    Couldn’t he just pick something?


    “Alright, I’ll choose. This one is free—others need a subscription.”


    Eric let out a softugh, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Alright.”


    “What is so funny?” Hadley shot him a yful re.


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