Chapter 364
It suddenly made sense to him.
With a light-hearted laugh at the surprising news, Elvin responded without any pushback, “I get it. Just focus on nailing your part tonight.”
“I will.” Feeling a wave of gratitude, Hadley said, “Mr. Webster, your support has been invaluable. Even as I leave this industry, I’ll always carry the memories of your kindness.”
Elvin offered a smile. “And I’ll remember you too, as a friend. Here’s to a stellar debut back on stage!”
“Much appreciated.”
Grasping his hand firmly, she thanked him again. “Thanks so much, Mr. Webster.”
The evening’s filming proceeded without a hitch.
Once she was free of her stage makeup, Hadley saw a video call notification from Mathias on her phone.
Occasionally, Joy would request Mathias’ or Colleen’s help to make a video call to her mother.
As soon as Hadley accepted the call, Joy’s cheerful face filled the screen.
“Mommy!”
“Hello, Joy.”
“Mommy, Joy misses you so much. When will you be home?”
“Well…”
Longing tugged at Hadley’s heart too, yet she knew she had to secure her footing in Srixby first. This would ensure a stable future for Joy when she rejoined her.
This brief separation was essential.
“Sweetie, I need to discuss this with Dr. Williams. We’ll sort everything out and I’ll update you soon, okay?”
“Alright.”
Joy compliantly passed the phone to Mathias, saying, “Your turn, Uncle Mathias.”
“Thank you, Joy.”
As Mathias’s face appeared on the screen, the conversation shifted.
“Ms. Pearson.”
“Dr. Williams, regarding the procedure for Joy…”
“I was on the verge of bringing that up. Joy’s surgery is tentatively scheduled for a month from now, possibly less.” Mathias explained. “We’ll finalize the date about a week before the procedure, and I’ll let you know right away. You’ll be able to make it back in time, won’t you?”
“Absolutely, I’ll be there!”
Tears sprang to Hadley’s eyes as she grasped the timeline.
“So, in about a month, Joy will—”
Her voice faltered, choked by the swell of her emotions.
“Yes.”
Grasping the depth of her feelings, Mathias added, “In just a short while, Joy will undergo her operation, make a full recovery, and then she’ll be living just like her peers.”
Overwhelmed, Hadley’s hand flew to her mouth as tears clouded her vision. “Thank you so much, Dr. Williams.”