Chapter 433
A shy smile crossed Denver’s face as he nodded. “It’s heading that way.” Though Hadley hadn’t made any commitments, Denver felt that she was warming up to the possibility. He believed a little more persistence might just seal the deal.
“That’s great to hear.”
Nearby, Barrie caught Eric’s eye as he sipped his drink quietly and murmured, “Was that wild helicopter flight through the storm all for naught?”
Eric’s response was a soft laugh as he glanced at Barrie. “Really, a single guy like you giving me grief?”
Barrie was at a loss for words. Since when had being single been such a crime?
Irritated, Barrie retorted, “It’s better to be single than a lovesick fool who’s been abandoned like you!”
“Come on,” Eric scoffed. “A lovesick fool? She’s hardly worth losing any sleep over!” With that, he finished his drink in one swallow and got to his feet.
“Where are you off to?” Barrie inquired.
“I’m out of here! I’ve got plans to head to Blathe early tomorrow!”
Eric was serious; he had business to attend to in Blathe with a supplier. Upon returning to Flynn Mansion, Eric made his way upstairs. As he approached Ernest’s room, the caregiver was just exiting.
“Mr. Flynn.”
“Is Ernest still up?”
“He is just winding down with some reading.”
“I’ll close the door. You go ahead.”
“Alright.”
Eric pushed open the door, planning to bid Ernest goodnight, but he halted at the sight of Ernest propped against the headboard, a book laid open but he wasn’t reading it. In his grasp was a tortoiseshell hairpin, his expression distant. Clearly, he was lost in thoughts of its owner.
It seemed Ernest was still haunted by memories tied to that hairpin.
Who could that person be?
This was the first time Eric realized Ernest had such deep feelings for someone. Choosing not to interrupt, Eric silently stepped away. Ernest never noticed he was there.
The following morning, before the break of dawn, Eric left Srixby for Blathe. Upon his arrival, despite the jet lag, he wasted no time in reaching out to the supplier to begin negotiations.
He was generally fit and healthy, so initially, he didn’t worry too much. It had never been a problem in the past. However, this time, something felt off as soon as he stepped off the plane.
Phillips checked his temperature. “Mr. Flynn, you’re running a fever.”
“I’m aware,” Eric said with a nod. The warmth in his breath was noticeable.
“You should really think about going to the hospital, Mr. Flynn.”
“No need.” Eric dismissed the idea with a shake of his head. Visiting a hospital wasn’t feasible. Unresolved supplier issues demanded his attention and could lead to significant complications. “I’ll manage with some medicine.”
“But…” Phillips looked concerned, trying to reason with him. “Mr. Flynn, there’s no need to overexert yourself.”