Her mysterious condition had been steadily sapping her strength in recent days, leaving her in a constant state of bone-deep fatigue and overwhelming drowsiness.
Eric positioned himself on his side to face her directly. Despite the fabric barrier dividing them, he carefully drew her into the protective circle of his embrace.
“Does this feel comfortable for you?” he asked with genuine concern.
“Yes,” Hadley confirmed with a gentle nod, pausing briefly before confessing, “This actually makes me feel completely secure and protected.”
“Is that so?” Eric’s lips curved into a subtle smile he couldn’t fully suppress. “That brings me tremendous relief. It proves I’m serving some meaningful purpose.”
“You never stop with your teasing,” she mumbled, her words thick with approaching sleep as a deep yawn escaped her lips. “I’m getting sleepy.”
“Close your eyes then,” he whispered with tender affection. “Sweet dreams.”
“Goodnight…” Her voice faded into a faint breath as her eyelids fluttered shut, and she instinctively burrowed deeper into his protective embrace.
Within minutes, her breathing settled into the calm, steady rhythm of deep slumber. Eric remained still, watching attentively with every gentle rise and fall of her chest.
Only after he was certain she had drifted into the deepest stages of rest did he carefully disentangle himself, lift the blanket with deliberate care, and slip silently from the bed.
He reached for her silk robe, draped it over his shoulders, and moved with quiet, deliberate steps toward the bedroom door.
Downstairs, Phillips was already waiting in patient anticipation.
“Mr. Scott,” Phillips greeted respectfully, standing beside several pieces of luggage he had brought to the residence.
Eric’s eyebrow arched in mild surprise. “Don’t you think this quantity seems rather excessive?”
“Not in the slightest,” Phillips replied with casual confidence. “Given that you’ve officially relocated here, your departure won’t be happening anytime soon.”
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Eric had established residence in this location solely because Hadley required his constant support, and her condition showed no promising signs of rapid recovery.
Phillips continued with practical efficiency. “I’m genuinely uncertain whether these belongings will prove sufficient. Today’s arrangements were executed under tremendous time pressure. I’ll arrange for someone to properly organize your entire wardrobe and personal effects tomorrow.”
Phillips presented a compelling argument. Eric absorbed his assistant’s words and responded with an approving nod. “Your reasoning is sound. You’ve considered every practical detail.”
“Mr. Scott,” Phillips’ expression shifted, his tone turning serious. “The doctor who performed Hadley’s medical examination earlier has arrived and is waiting outside. Would you prefer that I escort him inside for a private consultation?”
Now? At this hour?
Eric’s features immediately clouded with concern. Something must have gone wrong with the medical results.
He delivered a sharp, decisive nod. “Please escort him inside immediately.”
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