?Chapter 2743:


    As Eric’swyer, he would naturally remain here, keeping vigil as expected.


    There was little need for everyone to linger.


    Ernest, ever the voice of reason, turned to Hadley.


    “If Cristian’s staying, we’ve no cause for concern. Go get some proper rest. We’ll be ready to bring Eric home soon enough.”


    “Very well…” Hadley relented, reassured by Ernest’s steady words.


    As the group turned to depart, Ellis’ soft voice called out, “Hadley.”


    Hadley’s steps faltered, and she paused, hershes fluttering downward, her gaze tinged with hesitation. Was he about to press her to honor her promise?


    Upon sensing her unease, Ellis’ brow creased, but his tone remained gentle.


    “I know theing days will keep you upied. I won’t impose. Our agreement, however… I trust you’ll keep your word. I’ll wait for you to reach out when you’re ready.”


    Hadley’s breath caught, and she bit her lip.


    “Alright.”


    “Come, let me see you to the exit,” Ellis offered, falling into step beside her as they made their way toward the building’s exit.


    At the main gate, Ernest stood by the car, observing them from a distance.


    “Mr. Flynn is waiting,” Ellis said, stopping in his tracks.


    “I’ll leave you here.”


    Hadley’s head remained slightly bowed, her silence speaking volumes. With a faint nod, she hurried toward the car.


    “Ernest,” she greeted softly.


    “Mm,” Ernest replied, bending to open the car door for her.


    Before stepping inside, he cast a nce back at the police station.


    Ellis lingered there, his figure still in the dim light…


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    Ernest frowned. It wasn’t just a fleeting thought—something truly felt amiss.


    Inside the car, Hadley pressed her forehead against the cool window, her eyes tracing the passing world outside, though her thoughts were elsewhere.


    Everything had happened so abruptly, like a me catching dry tinder.


    She hadn’t had a moment to sift through her feelings.


    Did she regret it?


    All she knew was that, even if time could unravel and ce her back in that pivotal moment, her choice would remain unchanged. She’d do everything to save Eric.


    Yet the path ahead with Ellis… it was shrouded in uncertainty.


    Hadley shut her eyes, a heaviness settling in her chest, as though the air itself pressed against her heart.


    As the first light of dawn kissed the horizon, Cristian arrived at the Flynn mansion, his heart buoyed despite a sleepless night. His face radiated relief, a beacon of hope in the early morning mist.


    True to his routine, he made a beeline for the Crimson House. Having alerted the household en route, Cristian found Ernest already waiting when he stepped into the grand parlor.


    “Mr. Flynn, Miss Pearson,” Cristian greeted with a warm smile, his voice brimming with promise.


    “I bring tidings of great news!”


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