Her brows furrowed. She sent another message.

“When it comes to kids, don’t make promises you can’t keep. They take things really seriously. Always think before you say anything.”

This time, the reply came fast.

“Sorry, I was caught up earlier and missed your message. But don’t worry. I promised Joy—and I’ll keep it.”

Reading it, Hadley exhaled. Now she could finally breathe. The last thing she wanted was to see Joy in tears again.

Just as she was about to set her phone down, another message popped up.

“Are you about to go to sleep?”

Hadley’s gaze softened. She lingered for a moment, then placed the phone on the table without replying and walked over to the wardrobe.

Meanwhile, Eric sat with his phone in hand, waiting. No response. Maybe she hadn’t seen it yet. Or maybe she had—and just didn’t want to reply.

Was it the wrong thing to say? They were divorced. Joy was the only thread still tying them together. Maybe private messages like that weren’t appropriate anymore.

But still—he hadn’t thought it through. His fingers just moved, and the message was sent before he could stop himself.

Eric let out a low sigh and ran a hand through his hair.

“Was that too forward? Did I come off as rude?” Ugh!

He groaned, covering his face with his palm. His mind refused to settle. How could he not have liked Hadley before? She was smart, kind, beautiful. What had he been thinking? What about her had made him pull away?

Just as he placed the phone down, it lit up with an incoming call. It was Megan. His expression hardened. Without answering, he tossed the phone onto the nightstand and got up.

He headed to the bathroom, took a shower, and turned in for the night.

The next morning, Hadley rose early.

She reached for the landline, intending to call the main building. She wanted to check if Nyla was awake. If she was, they could have breakfast together.

“No need to call.” A voice came from the foyer. Ernest walked in.

“Grandma’s not up yet,” he said.

“Kira mentioned she had trouble sleeping last night, so she might have to stay in bed this morning.”

“Ernest.” Hadley set the phone aside and smiled.

“Good morning. Have you had breakfast?”

“I have.” He nodded, then added with a slight grin, “I’m here in an official capacity, actually. As your boss, I’m letting you know—you’ll need to attend the Flynn Group meeting this afternoon.”

Her role as spokesperson for the new product launch made her presence critical. She had to show up, and she had to show up strong.

“Okay, Mr. Flynn. I’ll be there.” Hadley smiled with a wink.

“You could’ve just messaged me, but you came all this way.”

“We live in the same estate. Why would I need to send a message?” Ernest gave a light chuckle.

“I’ve been heading out early and getting home late. I haven’t seen you or Joy much—thought I’d check in.” He glanced toward the stairs.

.

.

.