?Chapter 2786:


    Ernest’s jaw tightened, because Eric sounded anything but steady.


    “I’m on my way—”


    “There’s no need,” Eric cut him off with a stubborn edge, drawing in a long breath to steady himself.


    “I’ll make my way back now.”


    From the other end, N’s voice carried through the background.


    “Ernest! Come eat! Who’s keeping you so long?”


    “Ernest.” Eric’s tone shifted, pretending to be at ease.


    “Go have dinner. Joy will need her bath and bed soon—I can’t afford to miss it. Goodbye.”


    The line went dead, and he slipped the phone into his pocket before heading toward the parking garage.


    Inside his car, Eric sank into the driver’s seat and wrapped both hands around the wheel, though he left the engine off.


    After leaning back, he reached for the glovepartment and pulled out a cigarette. The lighter red, and he drew in smoke until his chest ached.


    The air inside thickened quickly, smoke wing at his eyes until they stung and filled with tears.


    With a sudden motion, Eric raised his hand and pressed it hard over his face.


    His lips shaped the same word in silence, again and again.


    “Hadley… Hadley…”


    He couldn’t locate the source of the pain. All he knew was that it spread through him—every part of him. The ache reached bone and soul alike.


    When Eric finally walked back into Flynn Mansion, Joy had already eaten and returned from the Crimson House.


    Eric climbed the stairs, finding Melba with Joy fresh from her bath, a book in her hand, ready for the night’s story.


    Joy’s mouth turned down sadly.


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    “Mommy isn’t here yet, and now Daddy disappeared too?”


    “Joy.” Eric stepped into the room with open arms.


    “Daddy’s here now.”


    “Daddy!” Joy’s face brightened, and she rushed into his chest.


    She waved at Melba with delight.


    “Daddy’s home! You can rest now. Goodnight, Melba.”


    Melba’s eyes went to Eric, silently asking if it was alright.


    “Go on,” Eric answered with a nod.


    “I’ll handle Joy tonight.”


    “Okay.” Melba gave Joy a warm smile.


    “Goodnight, Joy.”


    Once they were alone, Eric tapped Joy’s nose with a yful touch.


    “Stay put. I’m going to grab your book.”


    “Together! Together!” Joy clung to him tightly, refusing to let go.


    Eric let out a helplessugh.


    “Alright then, together.”


    With Joy in his arms, he carried her into the study.


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