?Chapter 2872:


    Atst, he eased her fingers away from Eric, though they remained curled—rigid like ws. She couldn’t straighten them.


    In that moment, Phillips’ eyes stung red.


    Drawing in a deep breath, he hoisted Hadley onto his back.


    “I’ll carry her. See to Mr. Scott!”


    “Understood!”


    With Hadley secured, Phillips broke into a run.


    He had carried Eric before, and even then, he could scarcely believe what his eyes now confirmed: Hadley—a woman—had borne Eric’s weight on her back.


    Yet it was no illusion.


    And in that moment, Phillips understood—Hadley had risked everything for Eric.


    Just as she had all those years ago. Nothing had truly changed.


    From the very start, it had been Hadley who loved Eric first. He had simply taken years to realize it.


    In the end, it was Eric who owed her more than words could repay.


    They rushed Hadley and Eric to the hospital in the nearest city. Hadley’s injuries were less severe—she was exhausted, utterly spent, but otherwise unharmed. Rest was all she needed. Once she was settled in a room, an IV drip was attached to restore her strength.


    Eric’s condition, however, was far more serious.


    The metal trap had torn deep into his back, leaving him with heavy blood loss and a raging fever that had pushed him into shock. Emergency surgery was his only chance.


    The operation, though urgent, was notplex—and it was carried out at once.


    When it was over, Eric was ced in a room directly beside Hadley’s.


    Naturally, this was arranged by Phillips.


    Not merely for convenience.


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    He knew that the very moment either of them woke, their first thought would be of the other.


    After ensuring Eric was stable, Phillips checked the time and stepped into Hadley’s room.


    She stilly fast asleep.


    A quiet sigh escaped him. She must have been drained beyond measure—who knew when she would awaken?


    In the end, it was Eric who stirred first.


    As his eyes fluttered open, he found himself lying face-down on soft bedding, white sheets cool beneath his cheek.


    The sterile tang of disinfectant filled the air. He was in a hospital. He had been saved.


    “Hadley…” Eric reached out, trying to push himself upright. But the motion tugged at the wound on his back, and a sharp wince crossed his face.


    “Mr. Scott.” Phillips entered swiftly, moving to steady him.


    “You’ve juste out of surgery. You mustn’t move recklessly—you’ll tear the wound.”


    “Where’s Hadley?” Eric cut him off, his voice impatient and strained.


    “Where is she?”


    “Don’t worry, Mr. Scott.” Phillips gestured toward the room next door.


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