?Chapter 2768:


    “We’ll ease her into a school scheduleter.”


    “Alright.” He had no objection.


    “She’s always been delicate. More rest will do her good.”


    “Right…” She let the word hang.


    In truth, Joy’s health had long since surpassed every warning the doctors had given.


    The subject of their daughter faded, leaving silence in its ce. Eric studied Hadley, his chest tightening as yesterday’s rejection reyed in his mind.


    The weight of it pressed down—too heavy, too sharp.


    “Hadley.” His gaze darkened, his voice low.


    Before he could finish, her phone rang.


    “Sorry.” She nced at him quickly.


    “I need to take this.”


    She stepped past him, phone at her ear.


    “Hello? Mm… I’m up.”


    Her tone was quiet, but it carried to him all the same.


    His heart cracked along old fault lines, the ache spreading outward.


    He didn’t need to ask who was on the other end.


    Who else would call this early just to check if she was awake?


    It had to be Ellis.


    Were they already this close?


    They were moving in fast.


    Eric turned abruptly and left through the door.


    He couldn’t stand there listening to her speak so softly to Ellis.


    Not another word.


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    The morning wind met him, sharp against his eyes.


    They burned, the salt rising beyond control.


    He squinted, whispering, “Hadley, I wronged you.”


    That truth had never left him.


    He had caused her more suffering than anyone should endure. And for nearly a year now, every step toward her had been marked by repentance and devotion.


    He had noints—he epted it as his due.


    He had once believed they had a lifetime ahead of them, time enough to make things right.


    But now, she had Ellis.


    “Hah.” A shortugh slipped out. Eric forced a smile, trying to bury the bitterness rising in his chest. It seemed he might never get the chance.


    Would he ever repay what he owed her in this life?


    That evening, before dinner, Eric returned to Flynn Mansion. Ernest had just arrived as well. He said nothing at first when their eyes met.


    “Ernest.” Eric managed a wry smile.


    “I shouldn’t havee, but I… couldn’t help myself.”


    He still wanted toe.


    He still wanted to see Hadley.


    Ernest’s brows drew together.


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