Chapter 496
“That’s your treat. Okay, bye!”
When Hadley finally emerged from the dance studio’s entrance, Eric was already there, waiting. His voice carried across the evening air, and she instinctively quickened her pace, jogging toward him. “Hadley! Over here!”
The moment she was close enough, Eric reached out, pulling her straight into his arms.
And then, without warning, he tilted his head down and kissed her.
“Mmm—!”
Hadley’s eyes widened in shock. A wave of heat rushed to her face as she quickly pushed against his chest. They were still right outside the studio, for god’s sake—colleagues were passing by, some stealing glances, others pretending not to notice.
“Let go!” she hissed under her breath.
Eric released her, utterly unbothered. He licked his lips, clearly pleased with himself.
“What’s the big deal? It’s not like we’re keeping this a secret.”
Hadley shot him a glare but didn’t bother arguing. Instead, she huffed. “Get in the car first!”
“Fine.”
Once inside, Eric leaned over, smoothly fastening her seatbelt before settling back into his own seat.
Hadley knew there was no avoiding tonight—not that she had intended to. She had already made arrangements at home. Eric shot her a knowing glance.
“Are you hungry? Do you want something to eat?” he offered, though he already had a feeling what her answer would be, given how strict her diet usually was.
Hadley shook her head without hesitation.
“No, thanks. I’m good.”
After a brief pause, Hadley added, “But… if there’s an apple, I wouldn’t say no.”
Eric let out a low chuckle, his fingertips grazing her cheek in an absentminded caress.
“Apples, huh? Don’t worry. I’ve got plenty.”
With that, he gripped the steering wheel, pressed down on the accelerator, and they were off.
Hadley glanced at him, curiosity flickering in her eyes.
“Where are we going?”
Eric’s lips curled into a mysterious smile.
“Somewhere nice.”
Somewhere nice? She watched the road as familiar sights passed by—and realization dawned. They were heading straight for Silver Villas.
Hadley’s lips parted slightly, but no words came. She stood there, utterly still, her thoughts tangled. It was too sudden, too unexpected—her emotions a whirlwind of feelings she couldn’t quite name.
“What’s wrong?” he asked, his brows drawing together.
“Is something off? They assured me it was built to international standards. If there’s a problem, I swear, I’ll call them right now—”
Before he could take another step, Hadley grabbed his wrist.
“Hadley?”
She met his gaze and shook her head lightly. “It’s not that it’s not up to standard… I just—” She exhaled, a rare softness in her voice. “I really like it. Thank you.”
“That’s all I needed to hear.”