“Mom,” Joy said, finishing a word and tugging at Hadley’s hand, her eyes hopeful. “Did I do okay?”

Hadley smiled, eyes warm, and nodded. “Of course, sweetheart. You did wonderfully.”

“Yay!” Joy grinned and bent her head, returning to her writing with renewed determination. “When Daddy comes home, I’ll show him too!”

Hearing that, Hadley blinked, a faint shimmer of moisture clinging to her lashes.

But Eric came home late that night.

It was almost ten o’clock when he finally returned to Jewel Avenue. The living room lights glowed softly, but the house was silent—the household staff had long since retired for the night.

Hadley was still awake, reclining halfway on the sofa, a film script resting in her hands. The shoot had been on hold ever since they’d wrapped the Srixby scenes. Once production resumed, they’d be moving to a new city. A few days ago, Elvin had sent her a message to check in. But between her lingering health troubles and the lawsuit hanging over her head, she hadn’t been able to return to the set. Had it not been for Eric’s unwavering support, the production team would’ve likely replaced her already.

The faint sound of the door opening reached her ears, and Hadley put down the script, rising to greet him. Eric had already changed out of his shoes.

“You’re back.” Beneath the gentle light, Hadley’s smile held a bittersweet softness. “Did you eat?”

She asked as she walked toward the kitchen.

“Yeah,” Eric replied, following behind her.

“Good timing.” Hadley stepped into the kitchen, where his usual herbal remedy simmered quietly on the stove. She grabbed a bowl and poured out the contents. “It’s just right—not too hot.”

“Okay.” Eric took the bowl and drank it down in one go.

“Come here.” Hadley handed him a small piece of candied fruit, then offered him a tissue to wipe his mouth.

? : g?ν?

Eric raised an eyebrow, his hand capturing hers. “You’re being extra attentive tonight.”

Hadley froze briefly, then smiled. “Aren’t I always like this? It’s not just tonight.”

That much was true.

Eric’s lips curved with amusement. “Then you’ll keep spoiling me like this, won’t you?”

Hadley paused for a moment, pulling her hand free and giving him a playful glare. “You think I’ll pamper you forever? Dream on. Once your surgery’s done, this special treatment is over.”

“Fair enough.” Eric’s smile faded into something softer, almost wistful. Was she dodging the question?

“It’s getting late.” Hadley placed the bowl into the dishwasher. Returning to him, she tugged his arm. “Don’t just sit there. I’ve already run the bath upstairs. Go relax.”

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