Chapter 316
Before anyone could respond, a recognizable voice rang out. “Grandma.”
Quickly, Eric entered, his strides long and purposeful. A hint of red colored his cheeks, suggesting he had indulged in a drink or two. As soon as Eric noticed Hadley and Denver, a slight smirk formed on his lips.
“Who do we have here?” Eric’s voice carried a note of feigned unfamiliarity as he looked at Denver and Hadley.
“Eric,” Nyla called out, her tone sharp.
She caught the subtle signs of Eric’s intoxication and rose from her seat swiftly.
Eric’s seemingly gentle smile didn’t fool Nyla for a second; she knew too well that it masked his discontent.
“Eric!” Nyla’s voice dropped to a whisper, and she gave him a subtle shake of her head, a clear warning not to make a scene.
Eric frowned, frustration simmering. Instead of snapping, he let out a short laugh. Was Nyla seriously worried about what he might do?
The tension in the room thickened evidently.
Hadley and Denver sensed the atmosphere shift and rose from their seats.
“Mrs. Flynn,” Denver said with a grateful smile. “Thank you for the dinner. It’s getting late, and we should be going.”
“You’re leaving already?” Nyla responded, turning back to block Eric’s approach with a forced smile. “I thought you’d keep me company for a little longer.”
“It’s late,” Hadley added, standing beside Denver. “I’ll come by another time.”
With the evening wearing on and the air charged with tension, Nyla chose not to hold them back.
She nodded. “Alright then, Denver… just make sure Hadley gets home without any trouble.”
“Don’t worry,” Denver replied assuredly.
“Goodbye, Nyla,” Hadley chimed in, turning to leave.
Denver offered his hand to her.
Noticing this, Hadley paused, aware that Eric’s eyes were fixed on them.
After a slight hesitation, she accepted his hand with a smile. “Let’s go.”
“Alright.”
Together, they exited hand in hand.
Eric, left behind, scoffed sharply, “Grandma, they’ve left. Can you release me now?”
Reluctantly, Nyla loosened her grip, her expression filled with concern. “Eric, are you really okay?”
Eric dismissed her concern with a shrug. “What could be wrong?” His tone belied his words, revealing his true feelings.
“You…”
Nyla sighed, gently touching his forehead. “I see your pain, Eric. You’ve tried so hard for Hadley lately.”
A bitter chuckle escaped Eric. “You noticed, huh?”
“Eric,” Nyla’s voice softened, a sadness in her tone. “Let it go. Hadley has moved on with Denver, and they seem happy.”