?Chapter 1434:


    “And…” Phillips handed over a box. “They sent this back.”


    Eric nced at it, then took it with a faint smile. “Finally.”


    “Took some time. We had to wait for the original craftsman’s schedule to clear up,” Phillips exined. “There was no other option.”


    “I understand.” Eric nodded.


    The car headed for Olisvale Bay.


    As soon as he stepped into the south wing, a servant greeted him. “Mr. Scott, wee back. The remedy is ready.”


    “Hold on.” Eric raised a hand. “Where’s Hadley?”


    “Upstairs,” the servant replied. “Miss Pearson came home early. She’s been with Miss Joy since.”


    “Alright.”


    Eric nodded and made his way to the second floor, heading straight for Joy’s room.


    He had just reached the door when Hadley stepped out.


    They came face to face.


    Eric smiled. “Hadley.”


    “You’re back.” She nodded toward the room. “Joy’s in the bath. Melba’s with her. You’ll have to wait if you want to see her.”


    Without waiting for a reply, she turned toward her room.


    “Alright.” Eric followed behind.


    At the door, Hadley paused and looked over her shoulder. “Do you need something?”


    “Yes.” Eric nodded, still smiling. “Can we talk inside?”


    She hesitated for a moment before stepping aside. “Come in, then.”


    ???ЯE ??P?ΛTΞ? IИ GΛ?И?VΞ??.???


    “Okay.”


    Eric entered and quietly closed the door behind him.


    “What is it?” Hadley sat on the sofa, brushing her hair off her shoulder. “Go ahead.”


    Eric sat beside her and pulled out a small box. “Here.”


    Hadley nced at it. Based on the size, she asked, “A watch?”


    “Yeah.” Eric smiled as he opened the lid. “Remember it broke? I sent it to Storia for repairs. The craftsman’s old and always busy—it took some time to get it back.”


    Hadley recognized the watch. It matched the one Eric wore—a couple’s set. “Here.” Eric took it out and reached for her hand. “Let me put it on you.”


    Just as he moved to fasten the strap, Hadley pulled her hand away.


    “Hadley?” Eric paused, surprised. “Don’t want to wear it?” He gave a faint, bitter smile. “It was yours to begin with.”


    That was true. Back then, she was his girlfriend—even if it was mostly for Joy’s sake. But now, things were different. Wearing it now… what would that mean?


    It wasn’t just a watch. It was part of a pair.


    Eric understood that too.


    .


    .<fna4e2> ?????? ???? find·novel</fna4e2>


    .