Ernest couldn’t help but scoff.

“Ellis is a good catch, you know. Don’t say I didn’t give you a heads-up. If you just stand by, Hadley might end up with him.”

Eric let out a shaky breath.

“But we’re already divorced.”

“Then answer me this,” said Ernest, his glare sharp with irritation.

“Why does Ellis’ interest in Hadley bother you? Why do you even care?”

Eric went silent, overwhelmed by feelings he couldn’t name or manage.

“You…” Ernest looked ready to say more, but his phone began to ring. Glancing at the caller ID, his mood shifted.

“I need to take this.”

Noticing Ernest’s stern face, Eric nodded in understanding and left.

Ernest listened quietly.

“Alright. I’ve got it.”

After ending the call, Ernest paused in thought, then dialed Hadley’s number.

Hadley picked up right away.

“Ernest, what’s up?”

“Hadley.” Without any small talk, Ernest got to the point.

“Head up to the study. We need to talk.”

“Alright.”

A short while later, Hadley tapped on the study door.

“Come in.”

“Ernest.”

“Have a seat.” Ernest motioned for her to take a seat, and then got straight to the matter.

“Mayo Hospital just called me.”

Exclusive stories gαlnσν?ls?com

“And?” Hadley froze, every muscle tense. Her hands balled into fists.

“Was it her on the line?”

Ernest understood exactly who Hadley meant—Linda.

“No.” Ernest shook his head, his tone serious.

“It was her doctor who called.”

Confusion clouded Hadley’s face.

“Her doctor? What did they say?”

Ernest responded, “The doctor said her situation is critical. She’s unconscious right now. She needed an amputation as soon as possible. Without it, there was a real chance she would never wake up. A decision like that required either her own approval or, if she couldn’t give it, a family member’s signature. And now, the only people she has left are the Flynn family.”

“I don’t understand.” Hadley’s expression grew troubled.

“Why won’t she sign?”

Doctors in Srixby had already suggested amputation before, but Linda never agreed to the procedure.

Ernest looked thoughtful.

“Maybe she’s given up the fight. Pain like that can drain anyone’s hope. Sometimes surrender simply feels like relief.”

A bitter laugh escaped Hadley.

.

.

.