?Chapter 2897:


    Catching the worry flickering across Hadley’s face, Ellis wondered for a brief second—was she actually worried about him?


    Still, his reply came out cool.


    “Don’t mind it. Just a scratch.”


    Just a scratch?


    A head injury was nothing to brush aside.


    Arriving in a rush, the doctor from Eric’s unit called out, “Mr. Scott.”


    Eric gave a curt nod and motioned toward Ellis.


    “This officer is bleeding on the back of his head. See to it right away.”


    “Alright.” The doctor stepped forward, examined the wound quickly, and knit his brows.


    “This cut is deep. Stitches are necessary. We should get to the vehicle—treatment will be easier there.”


    Their supplies were stored in the car, making it the most practical ce for proper care.


    “Fine,” Eric replied, then sent a look toward Hadley.


    “Hadley, stay with him. I’ll handle Joy.”


    He stretched out his good arm and said gently, “Come here, sweetheart. Let Daddy hold you.”


    “Okay…” Joy slipped into his arms without hesitation.


    Shock flickered in Hadley’s eyes, holding her still. She couldn’t believe Eric had asked her to apany Ellis.


    That wasn’t how he used to be.


    This time, though, his words carried no bitterness. This time, he truly meant it.


    He had let her go.


    “Hadley…”


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    Ellis pressed a hand against the back of his head, brushing off the sting.


    “It’s just a small wound. Nothing serious.”


    “Nothing serious?” Hadley’s brows knit tightly, her voice edged with reproach.


    “Didn’t you hear the doctor? He said you need stitches.”


    Turning away from him, she bent toward Joy, her expression softening at once. In a low whisper, she said, “Joy, stay with Daddy for a while. Mommy wille back soon, alright?”


    “Okay…” Joy pouted, reluctant but obedient.


    “Mommy, please be quick.”


    “I will, baby.”


    Reassuring her daughter with a gentle smile, Hadley exhaled softly, almost imperceptibly. Without sparing Eric a nce, she spoke to Ellis instead.


    “Let’s go.”


    “Alright.” Ellis pursed his lips and followed.


    Eric remained where he was, holding Joy tightly against his chest. He stood rooted in silence, watching as the two climbed into the car with the doctor.


    Only then did he finally turn away, carrying Joy slowly back toward the RV. His chest felt unbearably heavy.


    Inside the car, the doctor carefully examined the gash on Ellis’s head, the sharp smell of disinfectant filling the air.


    “The hair around the wound needs to be shaved,” he said as he dabbed at the blood with hydrogen peroxide.


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