Soon after, Brady showed up. He picked up Hadley and Elissa, and together they made their way to the Hayes residence.

That night, all eyes were on Colleen.

Upon arriving at the Hayes residence, they saw Colleen trailing her parents, warmly greeting each guest.

Zane stood amidst the crowd, surrounded by several young men and women—presumably other members of the extended Hayes family.

Hadley’s group stayed back without interrupting; a servant soon approached and ushered them inside.

Hadley and Elissa appeared perfectly at ease, but Hadley couldn’t shake her concern for Brady.

As his older sister, it pained her to watch him glance longingly at Colleen, though she knew it wasn’t her place to say anything.

After all, Brady and Colleen had only begun dating recently. Apart from Zane, the rest of the Hayes family remained unaware of their relationship.

Hadley quietly handed Brady a glass of juice and whispered, “Take things slow. It’s better for Colleen this way, too.”

“Thanks.” Brady accepted the drink with a soft smile and shook his head. “What are you worried about? I’m fine… Things are going well between Colleen and me. But I know it’s not the right moment for her to bring me into the family circle yet.”

His smile was genuine, his words steady with quiet honesty.

Hadley felt a wave of relief. She realized her concern had been unnecessary. Brady and Colleen were both adults, after all, perfectly capable of managing their relationship.

“This pastry is incredible…” Elissa lifted a piece of dessert and held it out to Hadley. “Try this.”

“Mmm, that’s really delicious.”

“Right? I wonder what’s in it. I’d love to make some for Locke and Joy.”

“We can ask Colleen about it later.”

They were chatting when someone appeared unexpectedly.

“Hadley.” Zane had slipped over quietly, offering greetings one by one. “Miss Holland, Brady.”

“Mr. Hayes.”

“Zane.”

Zane had come to escort them to their seats. “Colleen’s swamped tonight. Ever since she quietly returned to the country, work’s kept her buried. Now, the elders won’t stop asking questions.” He added gently, “She’s sorry for not being able to spend more time with you and hopes you understand.”

“Of course not.”

“I’ll show you to your seats. Dinner’s about to begin.”

“Sure.”

“Alright.”

Once they were seated, Zane took a place at their table.

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