Eric shook his head, unable to find the right words. That wasn’t the point he wanted to make.

She gave a light shrug.

“So we’re clear then, right?”

After thinking it over, she added, “The facts remain the same. I told you, we don’t know each other. Even if you really hurt me before, I’d want you to pay the price, right? So why would I deny it to your face? It just doesn’t make sense.” Her heart pounded as she continued, “If you still doubt me, go ahead and ask Ernest.”

With her words, Eric realized his questions had been answered.

“Alright.” He nodded, his eyes drifting to the passing scenery outside the car window. There was a tightness in his chest that felt like a storm about to break.

Traveling from the sanatorium to the Hayes family’s home took a while. Even though the city was quiet and the roads nearly empty at night, it was already late when Hadley and Eric finally pulled in. Everyone else had already left by then.

At the entrance of the Hayes house, Zane tried once more to reason with Brady.

“It’s getting late, Brady. You should head home now.”

“Zane.” Brady’s face was pale, his brows drawn together as he shook his head.

“I’m begging you. Please let me go inside and apologize to Colleen’s parents.”

“Brady.” Zane let out a weary sigh.

“You’re a decent guy, but your mother, she’s…” He couldn’t bring himself to finish, and he didn’t need to.

Brady’s voice broke as he nodded.

“I know, she’s awful. This is all on me. I had no idea she’d show up and start trouble.”

“You should go,” Zane said more gently.

“My uncle and aunt are upset right now, and that’s to be expected.”

“I get it,” Brady said quickly.

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“What about Colleen? Can I talk to her?”

“No.” Zane shook his head.

“My aunt isn’t feeling well tonight, and Colleen’s with her.”

“I…” Brady began to plead, but Zane’s attention shifted.

A car pulled up in front of the Hayes house. The door swung open and Hadley rushed out.

“Brady! Zane!”

Eric stepped out from the other side, following behind her.

Zane gave them a startled look before greeting them.

“Hadley, Mr. Scott.”

“Hadley!” Brady reached for her, his voice shaky like a scolded child. He clung to her, eyes turning red.

“My mom was here. She messed up everything.”

“Mrs. Jenkins caused quite an uproar here,” Zane said.

“The security staff had to remove her.”

“Brady…” Hadley focused on her brother.

“I’m sorry I took so long. Let’s go inside together and apologize to Mr. and Mrs. Hayes.”

“Alright!”

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