?Chapter 2949:


    Ellis listened quietly, and his eyes began to glisten.


    “Thank you,” he said, his voice low. He truly meant it, touched by Hadley’s kindness.


    After a brief pause, he blinked, steadied his breath, and managed a faint smile.


    “I hope you find happiness. It’s rare for two people to look so much alike. Maybe that’s fate. She’s gone now, but I hope you live a good life.”


    With that, he stood up.


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    He drew in a steady breath and said quietly, “That’s all I needed to say. I should get going now.”


    “Ellis.” Hadley rose to her feet as well, watching him. “Just let me say one more thing… It’s been nine years. You told me once that moving on was the only way forward. If she were still here, she’d want you to find happiness, wouldn’t she?”


    “Yes.” Ellis chuckled softly and nodded. “I did say that, didn’t I? I’ll give it a try.”


    He nced towards the door. “Hadley… is it alright if I give you a hug?”


    Hadley froze for a moment, her brows knitting slightly. That wouldn’t really be appropriate, would it?


    “Haha.” Ellis burst outughing and shook his head. “I’m only kidding.”


    Her hesitation was written all over her face. In the end, he couldn’t bring himself to push her into anything she didn’t want.


    After that, he reached his hand out to Hadley.


    “Goodbye.”


    Hadley immediately reached out, taking his hand. They smiled at each other as they shook hands in farewell.


    “Goodbye.”


    Just outside, Eric craned his neck and listened intently.


    “Mr. Scott! They’reing out!”


    “You really think I need you to tell me that?”


    Eric shot Xander a re. Did he look like he couldn’t see for himself?


    Ellis pushed the ss door open and walked outside.


    Eric stuffed his hands in his pockets and turned away, making it clear he had no ns to speak to Ellis.


    “Eric.” Ellis broke the silence first. “Do you want to know what Hadley and I talked about?”


    “Hmph.” Eric gave a soft snort, his chin lifted in defiance, every word edged with hostility. “You really think I need to ask? You came out by yourself—so I guess Hadley turned you down. How’s it feel? I bet you finally get it now. There’s nothing left for you, is there?”


    “No.” Ellis shook his head, showing no hint of displeasure toward Eric’s attitude.


    “That’s right… Hadley’s heart has always been yours. The only reason she ever agreed to me was because she cared about you.” A faint smirk curved his lips. “I lost. I ept it. I’ll back off. Well then, Eric… goodbye.”


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