“She’s chasing us.”

“Well,” he said with a faint shrug and a small smile.

“That’s her choice, not mine.”

Hadley had no words. Were they fighting?

Within moments, the car left Megan behind and slipped into the garage.

Eric took the private elevator leading directly to the president’s office, bringing Hadley along with him.

The meeting centered on the upcoming product launch and its event timeline. As the official spokesperson, Hadley received a handbook outlining the schedule and major talking points.

Once that part was done, she was free to go. The rest of the meeting was technical, and she wasn’t expected to participate—nor would she have understood much of it anyway.

Outside the conference room, Phillips was already waiting.

“Hadley.”

She paused, a little surprised.

“Phillips? It feels like I haven’t seen you in forever.”

“It’s not just a feeling,” Phillips said with a grin.

“It’s true.”

Hadley tilted her head. Wasn’t he usually with Eric? She should’ve seen him around. But lately, it had always been Xander accompanying Eric.

“Come on,” Phillips motioned.

“I’m here to take you back.”

“You?” She raised a brow.

“Is that really your job now?”

“Yep.” Phillips nodded.

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“I’m part of the security team now. I drive too. Basically, whatever they need.”

Hadley stared at him, stunned, her mouth slightly parted.

“Wait… is this because of me?”

“No,” he said, shaking his head.

“It’s my own problem. Elevator’s here, let’s go.”

“Oh. Okay.” She nodded, still distracted.

Even though Phillips denied it, she knew the truth. It was because of her. She didn’t know how to respond, knowing Eric had every reason to be upset.

She and Phillips had grown up together. In all her memories of Eric, Phillips had always been nearby. To her, he was Eric’s right hand.

No wonder Eric had been so busy lately. Phillips had been out of commission, and Xander was clearly learning everything from scratch.

Down in the garage, Phillips opened the door and helped Hadley into the car. Before starting the engine, he glanced over.

“It’s raining outside and a bit chilly. Want me to turn up the heat?”

“Yes, please.” Hadley nodded.

“It’s been overcast all day. Now that it’s finally raining, at least the air feels less heavy.”

“Yeah. It’s a relief.”

The car rolled out of the garage. Outside, the rain was heavier than either of them had expected.

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