Meanwhile, Hadley accompanied Eric as they made their way to rendezvous with Ernest.

The following two days were packed with professional obligations for the new product launch, meaning Eric and Ernest would be extremely occupied. However, Hadley could enjoy some leisurely time with Nyla and the children.

Eric positioned himself beside her and murmured, “I’ve secured the yacht arrangements. Two days from now, both Ernest and I will be free to join you.”

“Perfect,” Hadley replied with satisfaction.

“Mr. Scott!” someone called, approaching them with a wine glass in hand.

Eric pivoted toward the voice, immediately assuming his professional composure.

“Hello…”

Hadley discreetly stepped back as her phone vibrated insistently in her handbag. She checked the notification and saw it was Megan.

What could she need at this hour?

“Hello?” Hadley cupped one ear and pressed the phone to her other hand amid the surrounding noise.

“Megan, can you hear me?”

“I can!” Megan’s voice trembled.

“Hadley, I’m at the beach entrance. Could you come over? I… I…”

She faltered, embarrassed.

“I don’t have an invitation and can’t get in.”

Hadley paused, weighing her options for several seconds, then said, “Very well. Wait for me there.”

She ended the call and glanced toward Eric, who remained engaged nearby.

Clutching her handbag securely, she made her way toward the entrance.

“Over here!” Megan’s voice called out.

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From across the space, Hadley spotted Megan frantically waving, balancing on her tiptoes.

“Coming!” Hadley replied, hurrying over.

“Why…” She wanted to ask a question but sensed that, no matter how she phrased it, it might come out wrong.

Megan gave a bitter, hollow smile.

“You’re wondering why I’m here, aren’t you? Why I’m standing outside without entering?”

She shook her head with self-deprecating humor.

“Because I don’t have the proper invitation.”

Hadley understood the situation but remained puzzled.

“You sought me out because…”

“Hadley.” Megan lifted her gaze, eyes desperate and hopeful.

“Could you help me? I really need to see him!”

Terrified of rejection, she continued hastily.

“You understand these feelings, don’t you? I’ve cherished him for more than a decade! I cannot bear for things to end this way!”

“However…” Hadley’s brow furrowed with concern.

“You do realize he’s never been the most approachable person.”

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Message from Noa: Happy weekend dear readers. God loves you, and Noa wishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?

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