Eric followed Hadley’s gaze, sensing her thoughts. His eyes softened as they met hers, his voice steady yet laced with quiet longing. “I couldn’t bring myself to move your things… it felt like you were still here, living in this space.”

Hadley looked away, unwilling to let Eric’s words stir her. “You should rest,” she said curtly.

A flicker of disappointment crossed Eric’s face, but he nodded, letting Hadley guide him to the bed.

“Sit first,” Hadley said gently.

“Alright,” Eric agreed, his voice compliant.

“Take it slow…” Hadley added, her tone softening further.

Eric’s gaze remained fixed on her, tracing the delicate flutter of her lashes, each movement tugging at his heart like a quiet ache. As he settled onto the bed, Eric reached out, his arm encircling Hadley’s waist, drawing her close with a gentle pull.

Startled, Hadley stumbled forward, catching herself against him.

Eric’s lips quirked into a faint, mischievous smile as he leaned back, causing her to tumble onto his chest. His other hand rose, tenderly cradling the back of her head, pressing her closer still. His lips grazed her ear, his breath warm as he murmured, “It’s not just what you see… can’t you smell it? I use the body wash you loved. It always brings you back to me…”

Hadley’s cheeks flushed a deep crimson, warmth flooding her face.

“Hadley,” Eric’s voice grew husky. “My body, my heart, inside and out, it’s all still yours. It’s only ever been you…”

Hadley’s shyness surged, overwhelming her senses.

“Hadley…” Eric’s tone softened further as he guided Hadley’s hand toward him, his touch both tender and deliberate. The instant Hadley’s fingers grazed his skin, she flinched as if scalded, shoving Eric back and leaping to her feet.

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“Hadley?” Eric’s voice carried a note of confusion, his brow furrowing.

“You need to rest,” Hadley stammered, her words tumbling out in a rush. “I’m leaving!”

She spun around, flung the door open, and bolted from the room as if swallowed by shadows.

“Hadley!” Eric called after her, his hand pressing against his temple as a sharp wince escaped him. Frustration gnawed at him. Had he crossed a line again, letting his emotions run wild like some untamed creature? Was she angry?

Hadley’s thoughts churned like a storm as she raced down the stairs. Reaching the first floor, she nearly barreled into Megan, who was just stepping inside.

“Hadley?” Megan halted, her eyes narrowing into a cold, appraising stare. “What are you doing here?”

Hadley froze, caught off guard. She hadn’t braced herself for an encounter with Megan. As Eric’s current girlfriend, Megan had every right to question her presence.

“I was just leaving,” Hadley replied, her expression stiff, her voice clipped.

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