“Thank you.” Hadley applied her lipstick with precise movements, pressing her lips together to blend the color.

“Finished.”

She gestured to her lips and asked, “How does it look? Too glossy?”

“No,” Eric said, studying her face attentively for a moment.

“It looks perfect.”

She remained breathtaking, regardless of what she did or didn’t do.

“Then let’s proceed.”

“Certainly.”

Eric maintained his hold on her handbag as they strolled together, conversing quietly.

“How’s Joy doing? Still upset?” he asked.

“Not anymore,” Hadley replied with a smile.

“Those two little ones know their great-grandmother spoils them completely, so they often escape consequences.”

Not far away, Ellis observed their retreating figures, frozen in place. He lowered his gaze and quietly slipped away.

The celebration overflowed with activities and entertainment. The evening gathering took place along the picturesque seaside.

Hadley had returned in the afternoon to spend precious time with Nyla and the children. Only after they had all gone to sleep did she find the chance to change her attire and depart for the evening event.

As always, Theodore arrived to collect her. The venue was some distance away, so they traveled by car.

While seated in the car, Hadley noticed uniformed officers patrolling the area around the event. She had seen them earlier during her morning arrival.

“Theodore,” she asked, gesturing toward the officers, “is there an official security presence?”

“Yes,” Theodore confirmed with a nod.

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“This event draws a large crowd, so it’s wise to remain cautious in case of any incidents.”

“I see,” Hadley said casually.

At the grand entrance, Eric emerged to greet her. As the car came to a complete stop, he strode to her side, opened the door with a flourish, and extended his hand.

“Take my hand, and be careful.”

“Thank you.” Grasping his steady hand, Hadley stepped gracefully from the car. The nighttime atmosphere was more vibrant than during the day.

Brilliant spotlights illuminated the beach like sunlight. Eric guided Hadley inside, and they effortlessly became the center of attention.

“They make such a striking pair,” someone whispered.

“Haven’t they always been together?” someone whispered.

“Wasn’t that ages ago? Ferris strongly opposed their relationship back then.”

“It seems they’re rekindling their romance?”

Guests murmured these speculations among themselves in hushed tones. Ellis remained motionless, appearing completely unaffected by the surrounding buzz of gossip and excitement.

Gripping a crystal glass, he absorbed the chatter, then lifted it to his lips and emptied it in one smooth motion.

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