“Hadley?” Brady’s voice sounded, with Colleen’s in the background.

“Where are you right now? Colleen already spoke to her parents. We’re all set to go. Is Ernest with you?”

“We’re here together,” said Hadley, wiping away the remnants of her tears and trying to steady her voice.

“Give us a few minutes. Ernest and I will meet you there.”

“All right.”

She ended the call, slipped her phone back into her bag, and rose to her feet.

“Ernest, I need a moment to freshen up in the restroom.”

Ernest looked concerned.

“Let me go on my own. You need to rest.”

“No way.” Hadley shook her head firmly.

“Brady’s my brother. If only you show up, what will the Hayes family think? They might believe we’re being disrespectful.”

“But you…” Ernest started to speak, but the words fell away before he could finish. Exhaustion still clearly lingered in her expression.

He sighed.

“Please don’t push yourself.”

“I’m really not,” Hadley replied, a gentle smile on her face.

“Brady is my brother, and Colleen is my best friend. Why would I force myself to help them?”

After all, both of them had shown her true kindness at different times. More than anything, she wanted them to live peaceful and happy lives.

“Hold on for a minute.” Hadley excused herself, still smiling as she slipped into the restroom.

Not long after, she returned, makeup neat again, and slipped her arm through Ernest’s.

“We can go now.”

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“Alright.”

Standing outside, Eric and Megan continued to wait. The door swung open. Both of them looked up and saw Hadley and Ernest step out together, their arms linked.

“Ernest.” A lump formed in Eric’s throat as he tried to swallow, feeling uneasy all of a sudden. He sneaked a look at Hadley but didn’t have the nerve to meet her eyes directly.

“Mr. Flynn.” Megan’s footsteps echoed behind Eric. She let her gaze rest on Hadley for a few moments. It was obvious that Hadley had freshened up. She looked far more composed than before.

With a brief nod, Ernest faced Eric.

“We have other plans. You don’t need to come with us.”

Other plans? What plans?

Eric wanted to ask, but the words never came. He gave a short nod.

“Alright, Ernest.”

Casting a glance Hadley’s way, Ernest leaned in a bit.

“Time to go.”

“Okay.”

Side by side, they began walking away at a steady pace.

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