Chapter 380
Wilma took in Hadley with a critical eye, her judgment harsh.
“What, aside from your appearance, qualifies you to be with Denver? How dare you chase after him?”
At that moment, Eric arrived just in time to overhear Wilma’s harsh words. His face immediately hardened.
Known for his short temper, Eric didn’t hesitate to confront Wilma, stepping in to protect Hadley.
“Mrs. Moran, you need to watch what you’re saying! How can you accuse Hadley of chasing your son? It’s Denver who has been relentlessly pursuing her, not the other way around. Hadley doesn’t have to chase after anyone!”
Wilma was momentarily taken aback by Eric’s protective stance, her anger rising even more.
She glanced from Hadley to Eric, her tone dripping with sarcasm. “Oh, how wonderful for you both!”
“Mrs. Moran!” Hadley intervened, as tensions escalated. “Please, let’s keep things calm. He didn’t mean—”
“Enough already!” Wilma cut her off, gesturing dismissively. “Let’s end this discussion here. My point is clear—I don’t see you and Denver as suitable for each other. Please, keep your distance from him!”
“Mind your words now!”
Eric’s fists clenched in anger.
But by then, Wilma had already put on her sunglasses and was turning to leave.
Seething, Eric shot a frustrated look at Hadley. “Where’s Denver in all this? Is he going to let his mother treat you this way?”
Hadley looked down, choosing not to respond.
“Call him!” Eric demanded, gesturing sharply. “Call him now! We can’t let this slide!”
Yet, Hadley remained silent and still.
“Hadley, are you not listening?”
Suddenly, Hadley raised her head, her eyes locking with Eric’s intense gaze.
Eric was momentarily taken aback. Her complexion was ghostly pale—was she truly distressed?
Likely so.
She had deep feelings for Denver, yet his mother held such contempt for her.
“You…” Eric said, emotion tightening his voice. “Are you alright? How are you feeling?”
He couldn’t quite understand why, but although Hadley was the one directly affected, he felt an uncomfortable sense of unease.
“I’m fine.”
Hadley composed herself and shook her head dismissively. “We should head back. Nyla expects us for dinner, and we shouldn’t be late.” With that, she moved briskly ahead.
Once in the car, Eric found himself unable to meet her gaze directly, instead catching fleeting glimpses of her in the rearview mirror.
Hadley was usually quiet, but today there was a silence around her that felt almost palpable.
Was she deeply hurt?