Chapter 234
At first, a flush of embarrassment warmed his cheeks. But now, as his eyes met Eric’s, a spark of resolve ignited within him. Perhaps this was his moment—his chance to lay his cards on the table.
Not just for Nyla’s ears, but for Hadley’s former spouse to hear as well.
Drawing a steadying breath, Denver squared his shoulders and met Nyla’s gaze with newfound conviction.
“Yes. I… I’m quite taken with Hadley.”
At this, both Nyla and Eric blinked in surprise, the room falling momentarily still.
“Denver!” Nyla’s face lit up like a beacon, her hands clapping together in sheer delight. “Do you truly mean it?”
“Yes, Mrs. Flynn,” Denver replied with quiet certainty, adjusting his glasses in a gesture that underscored his polished sincerity.
“Splendid, absolutely splendid!” Nyla beamed, her heart swelling with joy. She had always believed that Hadley, even after her divorce, deserved the finest suitors Srixby had to offer.
“Does Hadley know of your feelings?”
“Yes, she does.” Denver’s brow creased slightly, a shadow of concern flickering across his face. “Though… she seems to harbor some hesitations.”
“Oh?” Nyla’s keen mind grasped the situation at once. She let out a soft sigh, shaking her head. “That girl… always overthinking things! Fret not, Denver—leave it to me.”
A surge of hope coursed through Denver’s chest, lifting his spirits. “Thank you, Mrs. Flynn.”
Nyla nodded approvingly, though her expression soon grew earnest, her tone carrying a weight of expectation. “But you must give me your word on one thing—you’re earnest about Hadley.”
Her gaze flicked briefly to Eric, a subtle challenge in her eyes. “You’re not troubled by her past, and this isn’t just some fleeting whim.”
“Mrs. Flynn…” Denver’s voice held a note of affront, as though the very suggestion wounded his honor. “Of course, I’m earnest!”
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He stole a glance at Eric before reaffirming his stance with unwavering resolve. “Her past holds no sway over me—I care only for her present and her future.”
“Well said! Very well said!” Nyla’s approval radiated, her satisfaction evident in her bright smile. “That’s precisely the spirit I hoped to hear. I believe you, Denver.”
Nyla had conducted her due diligence following the birthday party she had thrown for Hadley. Denver’s character, lineage, and accomplishments had all withstood her meticulous inspection. He was a commendable young gentleman—someone she deemed worthy of entrusting with Hadley’s future.
“Give her time, my dear,” Nyla advised softly, her voice brimming with warmth. “Seek to understand her. From her vantage point, she bears many worries, and rightly so. Especially with someone as exceptional as you chasing after her…”
“Mrs. Flynn,” Denver replied with a fervent nod, his sincerity unmistakable. “I understand completely. I know the steps I must take.”
“Grandma…” Eric’s voice finally cut through, a thread of exasperation woven into his tone.