Chapter 371
“Denver!”
Right on cue—Hadley’s voice rang out, light yet tinged with nervous energy. She stepped into view, dressed in her performance attire, the soft lighting in the corridor casting a glow against her delicate features.
“Hey, Hadley!”
A slightly awkward smile tugged at Denver’s lips as he lifted the bouquet slightly. “I hope I’m not interrupting something important!”
Hadley let out a small laugh, shaking her head.
“Not at all. Actually… I’m a little nervous right now. You’re just in time to help distract me.”
At the word “nervous,” Denver straightened, concern flickering in his eyes.
“Hey, relax. You’ve got this. You’re going to be incredible.”
This wouldn’t be his first time watching her dance.
He had seen her dance before—watched as she transformed under the spotlight, effortless and untouchable.
“I figured.”
Hadley flashed a warm smile, her eyes drifting to the bouquet in Denver’s arms. “Are those for me?”
Denver didn’t hesitate, extending the flowers toward her.
“Yeah. Wishing you an amazing performance.”
Not far away, Eric stood in the shadows, silently observing. His expression darkened as his gaze flicked from Hadley to Denver. Without a word, he looked away and strode off.
Inside the theater, the lights dimmed.
The curtain lifted, and the performance began.
The stage lights converged, casting an ethereal glow over the performer at the center.
Hadley stood poised, draped in her custom performance attire, her movements effortlessly elegant. Her long, straight legs exuded grace, and her waist—so delicate it seemed as though it could be encircled with a single hand—moved fluidly with the rhythm.
As the music swelled, her steps matched each drumbeat with precision. Somehow, each note reverberated through Eric’s chest, a strange, unsettling sensation creeping up his spine—as if the music wasn’t just playing, but striking at something deep within him.
And then, as the final note lingered in the air, she stopped. With a radiant smile, she turned toward the audience.
The reaction was instantaneous. Thunderous applause. Cheers. The air buzzed with electrified admiration.
“Bravo!” Denver couldn’t hold back. He shot to his feet, his hands coming together in unrestrained enthusiasm.
Then—Hadley looked his way. With a dazzling smile, she lifted a hand and waved, the joy in her expression unmistakable.
And then—she jumped. Just a small bounce on her toes, playful, as if making absolutely certain Denver saw her.
“Hadley…”
Denver stood there, frozen—completely stunned.