Elvin didn’t answer. Instead, his eye twitched, and his signals grew more urgent.

Realizing something was off, Hadley finally turned around to see who was behind her.

Just a couple of steps away, Eric stood tall and composed. His handsome face was unreadable as ever.

Elvin let out a nervous chuckle and quickly stepped forward, trying to ease the tension. “Mr. Scott, you’re here.”

“Yes.” Eric gave a slight nod, his gaze fixed on Hadley. He didn’t so much as glance in Elvin’s direction.

Taking the hint, Elvin retreated. “I’ll leave you two to talk.”

“Alright.”

With Elvin gone, the space around them grew still.

Eric looked down at Hadley. He had caught the latter part of her conversation with Elvin. “You want to join the promotional activities?” he asked.

Hadley’s cheeks were puffed from the food. Still holding the fork, she responded, “It’s not that I want to. It’s my job. Same way you don’t exactly want to compete with your siblings, but you do it.”

Eric lifted an eyebrow. She always had a way of flipping the script. Once again, he found himself at a loss for words.

Hadley looked up at him and held his gaze. “Are you asking because you want to meddle with my work?”

“Why would I?” Eric shook his head, looking genuinely surprised. “If you want it, then do it. You’re my partner, but I’d never clip your wings. If you want to work, then work. Your world shouldn’t revolve around just me and Joy.”

Besides, he knew she hadn’t been herself lately because of Linda. Maybe going back to work would lift her spirits.

“Having a career is good,” he said, nodding slightly. His gaze drifted to her neck.

Today, she had styled her hair into a graceful low bun that left the nape of her neck exposed. A few soft strands had slipped loose, framing her face and brushing against her neck.

The breeze from the sea picked up, lifting a wisp of hair and blowing it across her eyes.

Hadley’s lashes fluttered shut against the breeze.

“What happened?” Eric stepped forward quickly. “Did something get in your eye?”

He reached out and brushed the loose strand of hair away. His fingers grazed her skin. It was barely a touch, but enough to send a shiver up her spine.

Hadley stiffened, her posture snapping upright.

“Hadley?” Eric caught the change in her instantly and frowned. “What’s wrong?”

Hadley stammered, panic flickering in her eyes. Her hands clenched at her sides as she tried to steady herself. She forced a smile and reasoned, “I’m just a little cold.”

“Cold?” Eric immediately took off his jacket and reached out to wrap it around her shoulders. “Here. Wear this.”

“No!” Hadley stepped back, avoiding the gesture.

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