?Chapter 1601:


    “What?” Startledprehension shed across Elissa’s face, and telltale warmth bloomed across her cheekbones.


    Her features contorted into mock offense as she protested, “My observations concern your situation exclusively. Why redirect attention toward me?”


    “Elissa.” Solemnity reced Hadley’s earlier amusement, her tone weighted with sincerity. “Identical principles apply to your circumstances. Linda’s absence is now a reality. When Ernest returns, seize every precious moment together—make them count.”


    Compressing her lips into a thin line, Elissa acknowledged softly, “Indeed. The truth resonates.”


    An eloquent nce passed between them, mutualprehension flowing wordlessly through the silent exchange.<fn5fb8> Follow current nov?ls on Find★Novel</fn5fb8>


    “In truth, borate matrimonial pageantry holds little appeal for me,” Hadley confessed, fingertips massaging her temples wearily. “Particrly since this represents our second ceremony… but both Eric and his father remain intractable on the matter.”


    “In that case, embrace magnificence in your celebration. The grandeur seems appropriate,” Elissa advised decisively.


    “Might you assist with aesthetic selections afterward?” Hadley inquired hopefully.


    “Without question—consider it arranged,” Elissa confirmed.


    Elsewhere, having concluded her conversation with Hadley, Colleen deposited her phone carelessly, shifted position, and surrendered once more to slumber’s irresistible pull.


    Consciousness returned only when her phone’s insistent melody prated the depths of her repose.


    “Hello?” she answered groggily.


    “Colleen, where are you? Elissa and I arrived ages ago. Multiple messages and calls have gone unanswered. Has something happened?” Concernced Hadley’s inquiries.


    “Nothing’s wrong,” Colleen responded, mortification evident in her tone. “Sleep imed me once more. My sincerest apologies. I’m getting up right now—genuinely, this instance bears no false promises. Expect my arrival shortly.”


    “No rush at all,” Hadley said with gentle understanding. “Prioritize caution above punctuality. We’ll hang around a bit more. I’ll send you the address. Meet us at the restaurantter, okay?”


    “Perfect!”


    Colleenunched herself toward the bathroom, executed her ablutions with frantic efficiency, and bolted through her doorway en route to Evergrand Mall.


    Misfortune intervened during her journey as mechanical failure immobilized her vehicle. Despite maneuvering safely to the roadside, repeated ignition attempts yielded nothing but frustrated silence.


    “What cmity is this?” Bereft of automotive expertise yet desperate for solutions, Colleen exited her vehicle for inspection, confronting a mechanical mystery beyond herprehension.


    As anxiety began its inexorable climb, unexpected physical contact—a gentle tap upon her shoulder—preceded a familiar voice. “Colleen.”


    “Yes?” Pivoting sharply, Colleen discovered herself mere inches from Brady’s radiant, weing expression.


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