Hadley didn’t bother trying to figure out her motives. “If there’s nothing important, I’m hanging up now.”

Hadley couldn’t justify sticking around to hear any more of Ayla’s nonsense. On top of that, the sound of her voice unsettled her in ways she couldn’t quite explain.

Her thumb hovered over the end button, but Ayla’s sudden scream pierced through. “Hadley! Don’t hang up! Listen to me!”

For a moment, Hadley froze.

“Eric loved me before he ever looked at you! You stole him from me!” Ayla’s words erupted with bitterness.

Those accusations sent a jolt through Hadley. Her mind blanked. She truly believed Ayla had lost her grip.

“Hadley! You ruined everything! You’re nothing but a shameless whore! I swear I won’t let you off the hook! I’ll—”

Before Ayla could spit out another threat, Hadley’s scowl deepened. She ended the call in one sharp motion.

Her grip tightened around her phone. Her face clouded over.

“Was that Ayla? What did she say this time?” Elissa took one look at her and understood the situation.

“Nothing important.” Hadley’s head moved in a slow shake, a hint of confusion lingering in her eyes. “It was nothing new—just more of her nonsense as always. She claimed Eric belonged to her, accused me of stealing him, and said she won’t let me go. The same old story.”

“She’s honestly lost it.” Elissa shook her head slowly. “Try not to give her any attention. She’s just lashing out, and with Tamara and the others around, you’re safe.”

“I understand.” A nod from Hadley showed she felt a bit more secure.

Before long, the car made a U-turn and was reaching the other end. Off in the distance, a bright red car caught Elissa’s eye. She squinted, ready to check the plate, but then the door swung open and Savannah hopped out, waving cheerfully.

“Elissa!” Savannah’s voice rang out.

Lɑtτ cнαρτ?rs ιn glov?ls.

“That’s my mom!” The words slipped out before Elissa could help herself.

Hadley turned to the driver right away. “Pull over here.”

“Of course, Miss Pearson.”

As the car rolled to a halt, Elissa jumped out, and Hadley followed close behind.

“Mom!” Elissa hurried toward Savannah, excitement in her steps.

“Not so fast!” Savannah’s tone scolded her. “You’re pregnant. Don’t go running like that.”

“I’m alright.” Elissa flashed a grin and brushed off the concern. Her eyes darted to the car, then around the area.

A question popped out. “Hang on, where’s Neville?”

“He stepped out to pick up some water bottles and needed to use the restroom. He won’t be long.” Savannah reached for her hand, talking without pause.

“Neville keeps saying how much he’s missed you. He reserved a table for us at Red Shell Bistro tonight.”

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