“You say that now…” Hadley nodded, though her voice was small. “But… you’ll leave eventually.”

He couldn’t stay forever. He didn’t live with her. He had his own life—and he needed rest too.

Suddenly, their eyes met, and something unspoken passed between them. Startled, Hadley quickly looked away.

“Hadley…” Eric reached out and gently cupped her chin, turning her face back toward him. A faint smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “Just tell me what you want. Anything.”

Hadley parted her lips, but nothing came out. She didn’t know how to say it. More than that, she felt too embarrassed to ask him to stay.

“Tell me,” Eric coaxed again. “You know I’ll say yes to anything you want.”

Hadley frowned slightly. He was impossible. He already knew what she needed. Still, she huffed and looked away. “I’m going to bed. You… should leave now.”

Eric paused, clearly caught off guard. That wasn’t the answer he expected. Disappointment flashed in his eyes.

“Okay then.” He let go of her, slowly rising to his feet. “I’ll head out now?”

“Go on!” She waved him off without meeting his eyes. “Hurry up!”

“Alright.” Eric sighed. He took a deep breath and started walking away, one step at a time.

Hadley watched him go, surprised that he was really leaving—even knowing that she might see something again.

“Hadley!” Eric turned around sharply and crossed the room in a few quick strides. He pulled her into his arms and held her close. “Let me stay. Please.” His voice was quiet but firm. “If I’m here, even if something happens, you won’t be alone. You won’t have to be scared. Alright?”

Hearing that, Hadley huffed inwardly, a quiet satisfaction rising in her chest. Finally, he offered to stay.

“Well… you’re the one insisting,” she said, lifting her chin ever so slightly. “I never asked you to.”

See more chapters at gl no vels.

Her smug tone made Eric chuckle. He nodded, playing along. “Yes, yes. I’m insisting. I’m worried about you. I can’t stand seeing you afraid.”

“Fine, then.” Hadley gave a short nod, her lips pressed together.

Their eyes met—and they both burst into soft laughter.

Their fingers intertwined. Foreheads touched.

“Shall I carry you to bed?” Eric asked.

“Okay.” Hadley nodded.

Only then did she notice the state he was in—his clothes clung to his chest, damp with moisture from earlier.

“You need to shower and change,” she said, frowning slightly. There were no spare clothes here, though.

“It’s fine. I’ll have Phillips drop something off later. For now, I’ll use a bathrobe,” Eric replied, unfazed.

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