“Well…” Hadley hesitated, then ventured, “Do you know Chelsey Williams?”

At the mention of Chelsey’s name, the woman’s demeanor shifted dramatically.

“I don’t know her! Get off my property, now!”

With that, she shoved Hadley back and slammed the door shut with a resounding clang.

“Hey!” Hadley exclaimed, momentarily stunned.

Yet one thing was clear: the woman’s reaction confirmed she knew Chelsey. Otherwise, why the outburst?

Hadley dashed forward, rapping urgently on the door.

“Mrs. Prescott! Please, open the door! Mrs. Prescott!”

Despite Hadley’s fervent knocks and pleas, the woman remained inside, unmoved.

Just around the corner, a cluster of figures emerged.

At the forefront strode two imposing men, clad in sleek black suits, their presence commanding.

Eric moved in step with Phillips, keeping a measured distance, one slightly ahead of the other.

“Look, let’s start by—”

Their conversation flowed as they walked, words drifting through the air. Abruptly, Eric’s eyes caught a distant commotion, his gaze locking onto the source of the insistent banging.

To his astonishment, there was Hadley, pounding on a stranger’s door, her presence there a mystery.

Meanwhile, Hadley continued her desperate appeal.

“Mrs. Prescott…”

At last, the door creaked open.

“Arf! Arf arf!”

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A dog’s fierce barking erupted as a middle-aged woman fixed Hadley with a withering glare.

“I told you to leave, didn’t I? Linger here, and you’ll regret it!” She unleashed the dog’s leash.

“Go! Bite her!”

“Arf! Arf arf!”

Startled, Hadley spun on her heel and bolted.

“Arf! Arf arf!” The dog’s relentless barks echoed as it gave chase.

Though puzzled by the scene, Eric’s instincts kicked in. Frowning, he surged forward, pursuing Hadley without a second thought.

“Mr. Scott!”

“Mr. Scott, wait!”

His entourage scrambled after him, their footsteps pounding in unison.

Hadley’s breath came in ragged gasps, her strength fading as she struggled to keep her pace.

“Arf arf!” The dog charged, leaping toward her.

“Ah!” In her panic, Hadley’s ankle twisted, sending her stumbling to the ground. Bracing for the worst, she squeezed her eyes shut, certain pain was imminent. In an instant, a figure lunged from the side, delivering a swift kick that sent the dog tumbling.

It was a Scott family bodyguard. Simultaneously, Eric reached Hadley’s side, dropping to one knee beside her, concern etched across his face.

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