Without another word, Eric turned and walked away.

“Eric!” Linda’s scream tore through the cemetery. “You betrayed me! You said you’d care for me forever! You lied! I’m still alive, and you left me! You owe this to me!”

Not once did he glance back as he disappeared down the path. Left alone, Linda shut her eyes tightly, and a strained, broken sound escaped her throat. The place emptied quickly. Everyone had gone, except Jane, who remained silently nearby.

Seeing her sob so violently, Jane stepped closer and asked gently, “Miss Harris, do you need anything? Are you alright?”

That question pulled a bitter smile from Linda’s lips. She already knew—nothing would ever be enough, and she would never be alright again.

Even if she managed to escape Srixby, even if she made it to Ontmond, she doubted she’d live long enough to enjoy any of it. But in her mind, if she could spend what little time she had left making sure they never tasted peace—never touched real happiness—then it wouldn’t be a wasted life after all.

By the time Eric reached her, Hadley was already seated in the car, her head resting lightly against the window with her eyes closed. Sliding into the seat beside her, he moved carefully, making no noise—barely even daring to breathe.

The vehicle eased into motion, tires humming quietly against the road.

“Eric.” Without warning, Hadley’s eyes fluttered open, her voice soft as she spoke his name.

“I’m right here!” Eric sat up straighter. His response was immediate and firm.

Hadley turned her head toward Eric and asked, “Just now, Linda mentioned her flight tonight is bound for Ontmond. Is that accurate?”

“Yes.” Eric nodded.

Hadley’s eyes narrowed as she pressed further. “Did you arrange a private flight for her?”

“No.” Eric shook his head firmly. “Phillips booked the tickets for her. She’s departing with Jane.”

“That’s it?” Hadley looked somewhat surprised. “And you’re comfortable with that arrangement?”

?: ν?

Her casual, almost dismissive tone scraped against Eric’s nerves. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he replied. “I promised to get her to Ontmond. Nothing more.”

“Hadley…” Eric’s voice softened as he continued. “I set up her departure so I’d know exactly where she goes and when.” This way, if the police uncovered something later, it wouldn’t mirror Abigail’s situation—vanishing without a trace and leaving everyone helpless.

“She hasn’t filed for immigration, and I won’t lift a finger to help her with that. As long as she carries a Srixby passport, the police can bring her back whenever they want,” he added.

“Is that so?” Hadley sank back into her seat, doubt written across her face.

“Absolutely!” Desperation edged his words. “You have to trust me. Every single thing I’ve told you is the truth.”

“Let’s just leave it there.” Exhaustion weighed on Hadley’s shoulders as she closed her eyes, pulling her coat around her like armor. Whether his words held truth or lies didn’t matter much right now. Tonight Linda would depart. As for what tomorrow might bring, no one could say.

.

.

.