He continued without pause. “You’ve come to support us during today’s relocation? Your presence means more than you know.” He accompanied his words with a gracious bow of appreciation.

“Mr. Flynn, your gratitude is too generous,” Colleen responded swiftly, warmth coloring her tone. “Hadley and I share a close friendship—this is simply what friends do for one another.”

“Absolutely right.”

Ernest’s gaze swept toward Zane, his expression carefully neutral and unreadable. Colleen’s presence made perfect sense to him, but Zane’s attendance sparked questions that demanded deeper consideration.

The sound of footsteps echoed from the floor above, breaking the momentary tension.

Melba descended the stairs with Joy nestled securely in her embrace. The pre-dawn darkness still cloaked the world outside. Joy slumbered peacefully against Melba’s chest, showing no sign of stirring from her deep sleep.

Colleen’s voice cut through the quiet gathering. “Should we be heading out now?”

“Yes.” Hadley confirmed with a nod, glancing at her phone screen. “Brady just sent word that he’s prepared to depart.”

“Then let’s not keep him waiting.”

The small gathering moved toward the exit, filing out of the house in a measured procession.

At the gate, Hadley came to an abrupt halt, her steps faltering.

Eric’s sleek black Bentley sat positioned directly behind Ernest’s Cayenne in the driveway. Eric stood beside his vehicle with casual elegance, his hands buried deep in his pockets.

A warm smile spread across his features as he watched them emerge from the house. “Ernest, Hadley…”

The moment his gaze landed on Zane, however, his smile crystallized into something cold and unmoving.

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Hadley stared at Eric for a moment, her eyes unreadable. Then she turned to Ernest with a questioning look.

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“I asked him to come,” Ernest quickly explained. “I figured… even if you two are divorced, we’re still family. Right?”

He hesitated for a beat before continuing. “Grandma couldn’t make it. Her health isn’t what it used to be. But she was firm about this. She said the relocation of your mother’s and grandfather’s graves should be done with care. You’ve always treated her like your own. We see you the same way. So I thought bringing Eric along would be the right thing to do.”

Hadley’s brow creased, but she didn’t say anything.

“If you’re not comfortable with it…” Ernest trailed off as he watched her expression shift. “I can just tell him to leave.”

He then turned slightly and motioned toward Eric. “Eric, you should probably head back—”

“Ernest.” Hadley clutched his arm and shook her head. “Eric’s already here. Let’s do this together. It’s thoughtful of you both. Thank you, Ernest.”

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