Chapter 309
“Hadley…”
She firmed her grip on Denver’s arm. “We need to get you checked out.”
Denver tried to reassure her. “I’ll be alright.”
But Hadley wasn’t convinced. “No, you won’t be.”
They attempted to move past, but Eric was in their way, his presence daunting.
“Move,” Hadley demanded, avoiding Eric’s gaze.
Eric seemed to falter from her words, as if dealt a physical blow, and remained rooted to the spot, shocked.
“You refuse to step aside?”
Hadley scoffed coldly. “Eric, do you really think your family’s influence grants you such liberties?”
She raised her head defiantly, locking eyes with Eric.
“Very well. If this is the path you choose, you’ll have to go through me as well. As long as Denver and I draw breath, we will stand together.” She shut her eyes briefly and intertwined her arm with Denver’s.
“Hadley…”
Despite his discomfort, Denver positioned himself staunchly by her side. “Eric, listen to Hadley. We’re not backing down. Our love is deep, and nothing short of death will part us.”
These declarations seemed to deflate Eric.
His resolve seemed to dissolve as he observed Hadley and Denver, united and resolute, appearing as if they were destined to be together. Eric questioned his place in this unfolding drama.
As his anger surged, Hadley and Denver’s unity seemed only to solidify. His efforts for Hadley now seemed futile, utterly disregarded. A rueful chuckle escaped him, feeling as though he were the butt of some cruel joke.
Finally, Eric yielded, stepping aside with a gesture that allowed them to leave.
Conceding defeat, he recognized that releasing them was his only option.
Hadley’s eyes briefly sparked with determination as she tightened her grip on Denver’s arm. “Let’s go!”
“Yes.” Denver agreed.
Together, they quickly moved away, leaving a solitary Eric behind.
As he watched her departing back, a flicker of anger ignited within him.
Overcome by emotion, Eric’s voice rang out once more. “Hadley!”
Hearing him, Hadley stopped in her tracks without turning back. “One last question…”
Eric’s expression remained unreadable as he focused on Hadley’s figure. “Was everything you’ve said tonight the truth? Do you truly love Denver?”
“Yes,” Hadley replied instantly, her response resolute.
Hadley knew that even a flicker of hesitation could ruin the entire act for the night. “I love Denver.”
After a fleeting glance at Denver, Hadley grasped his arm, and they departed without a backward glance.