“Hadley…” Eric’s voice broke, shame weighing every syllable. “I’m sorry, but… not yet.”

“What?” Hadley’s smile slowly faded, her thoughts swirling in disbelief. “Wait… what did you say? I didn’t hear you.”

“Hadley…” Eric’s chest tightened. The truth struck harder than any punishment. She had heard him loud and clear. He had broken the promise he swore he’d keep. Clutching her hand like a lifeline, he whispered, “Relax. It’s just 24 hours. Tomorrow, I swear I’ll be here to take you home.”

Every word fell like a solemn vow—measured, unshakable. In the stillness of the cell, his voice echoed, a promise suspended in silence.

Hadley gazed at him, her eyes glassy, her silence deafening. Then, without warning, she pulled her hand away, rising abruptly.

Her voice cracked through the emotion. “You lied! You said this would be over soon and you’d take me home right away!”

“I didn’t lie!” Eric’s hand lingered midair, trembling with helpless frustration. “I didn’t know this would happen—I failed you. I’m useless.”

His voice trembled, desperation seeping through. “Just one more day—just one. I’ll come back tomorrow. I swear it.”

But Hadley had already turned her back, silent and unmoving—shutting him out without a single glance or word.

“Hadley!” Eric called, his heart fracturing with every beat.

Watching her pull away, Eric was overwhelmed by a profound sense of loss. If he could have taken her place, he would have—without a moment’s hesitation.

“Mr. Scott…” Cristian’s voice broke the heavy silence. “Let’s go. We’ll get her out by tomorrow.”

Eric turned to him, eyes sharp. “Can you absolutely guarantee that?”

Cristian didn’t flinch. “Yes. I guarantee it.”

There was nothing else to hold onto—just that promise.

g?ν﹐

“Hadley…” Eric murmured, staring at her fragile silhouette. “Just rest. When you wake up, I’ll be here.”

She didn’t move. Didn’t respond. Just silence.

“We need to go,” Cristian urged, gently pulling him away.

Officers signaled them toward the exit. Time was up.

With a heavy heart, Eric turned and walked away, utterly powerless to change a thing.

As they exited, Eric’s voice was low. “Cristian…”

“I know,” Cristian replied before he could go on. “It’s all in place. She’ll be treated well. Just 24 hours.”

Eric nodded, silent, the weight still pressing on his chest. He could make sure she was physically safe and cared for. But it did nothing for the pain clawing at his heart. She was probably crying by now, wasn’t she? And the worst part—he couldn’t even be there to hold her.

Eric and Cristian stepped out of the station.

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