Clearing his throat, he addressed Hadley directly. “Milly’s made her choice clear, so please accept it graciously.”
Satisfied, Milly smiled warmly and gently squeezed Hadley’s hand. “You and Eric, happy together.”
Emotion overwhelmed Eric as he gazed lovingly at his mother, a sudden warmth filling his vision.
Gently, he nudged Hadley with encouragement. “You should accept it.”
Turning toward Eric briefly, Hadley softened, her smile tender as she graciously accepted the gift. “I truly appreciate this, Mrs. Scott.”
“Good.” Milly flashed her a big grin.
Ernest and Elissa soon moved forward, taking their turn. Newest update provided by findnovel.net
With genuine warmth, Ernest said to Hadley, “Best wishes on this new chapter, Hadley.”
“That’s kind of you, Ernest,” Hadley replied warmly.
“Now, Eric…”
Pretending irritation, Ernest gave Eric a pointed stare. “You invited us without mentioning the proposal. I’m empty-handed!”
“No worries at all,” Eric said as he teased playfully. “Your presence here is what matters most. You can spoil us at the wedding though.”
Feigning exasperation, Ernest shook his head, then softened toward Hadley. “Eric tricked me into coming empty-handed, but I’ll be sure to pick out something special to make up for it.”
“I’ll look forward to it!” Eric cut in cheerfully before Hadley could say more. “Ernest, I’ll hold you to that promise. No backing out now—Haha!”
Ernest hesitated, narrowing his eyes at Eric’s shameless grin—but quickly decided it wasn’t worth bickering.
“Hey, Hadley,” Brady said with an apologetic shrug. “I’m empty-handed too, but next time…”
“You can stop right there,” Hadley said, interrupting with a playful wave. “Really, you’re family, and your presence is enough.”
Elissa gently reached for Hadley’s hand and said softly, “Hadley, I’m so happy for you.”
“Thank you,” Hadley warmly squeezed her hand back, sharing a quiet moment of joy. Just then, sharp cracks filled the air, and glittering confetti burst upward, swirling brilliantly.
Marshall and Barrie appeared, triumphantly brandishing champagne bottles. Both turned expectantly toward Eric. “Just waiting on your word—should we get these bottles open?”
“Go for it!”
Exchanging a mischievous look, they vigorously shook the bottles and shouted, “Here’s to Mr. Scott sealing the deal—time to celebrate!”
“Alright, cue the music! Let’s dance, laugh, and make this a night to remember!”
The celebration stretched into the early hours, the last guests lingering well past midnight.
Eric bid farewell to each one individually before making his way back through the venue to find Hadley.
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