Chapter 295
What?
Stunned, Hadley tensed up, grappling with the reality of Linda’s words. “Ernest is really awake?”
“That’s correct.” Linda’s voice shook a bit, her eyes glistening with tears. “He’s awake.” That was incredible news! Overwhelmed, Hadley balled her fists, emotions flooding through her. Tears welled up in her eyes; Ernest had always looked out for her, much like an elder brother would…
“Still haven’t pieced it together?” Linda regained her composure, her eyes narrowing. “Consider this—Eric has ignored you for so long. Why the sudden change? Why is he now so intent on securing your future? What do you think his motives are?”
Yes… why?
The realization then hit Hadley like a tidal wave, stopping her breath. Her eyes locked onto Linda’s, the truth finally sinking in.
Linda’s smirk widened, as if she’d read Hadley’s mind. “Consider the past—why did Nyla insist on that marriage? And why did he comply? It’s happening again. He has his reasons for suddenly being so nice.” The past provided the clues.
Hadley now saw the whole picture.
Nyla had orchestrated the marriage to prevent Eric from being a rival to Ernest for Linda’s affection. Eric had eventually complied to cut ties with his own emotions and marry Hadley.
And now, with Ernest awake, was history repeating itself? Was he using her once more?
“Do you understand now?” Linda’s eyes sparkled with smug satisfaction. “I actually feel sorry for you… which is why I’m telling you this.”
Did Linda really just say she felt sorry for Hadley?
Hadley’s response was a quiet chuckle, her voice laced with disbelief. Did Linda really think Hadley couldn’t see through her little scheme? It was a clear attempt to stir trouble between her and Eric.
Too bad for Linda—Hadley’d have to actually care about Eric for it to work.
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“I may not care for you, but I appreciate the information,” Hadley said, gesturing toward the elevator. “Are we done here? Can I leave now?”
Turning her back, she signaled the receptionist who had been waiting at a distance.
“Please, take me up now.”
“Right away!” the receptionist responded eagerly.
Linda was taken aback.
How could Hadley remain so composed? Wasn’t she supposed to be upset?
She observed as Hadley and the receptionist entered the elevator. As the doors closed, Linda was left in disbelief.
“No way…” She shook her head, muttering under her breath, “How is she not upset?”
There was no way—it had to be an act!
The elevator ascended to the top floor, where the receptionist escorted Hadley out before promptly departing. Hadley continued on alone towards the CEO’s office.
Upon entering, she found Eric engrossed in his work.
“There you are.” Eric glanced up briefly. “Just a moment. I’m nearly done. Please, take a seat.”
“Sure.”