The sudden knock drew Hadley’s gaze upward. A middle-aged woman entered, and at first glance, she didn’t look like anyone from the police force.

Her attire was refined, each piece designer, and Hadley’s upbringing in a wealthy household made it easy for her to recognize the quality. The woman’s face was perfectly made up, every detail speaking of wealth and status.

But what business would such a lady have inside a police station?

Hadley had no real curiosity, yet when their eyes met, she gave a polite nod before lowering her gaze again.

“Hello,” the woman greeted with a smile.

“Do you mind if I step in?”

The question caught Hadley off guard, and she faltered.

“I’m not an officer… but this is a reception room, so I suppose it’s fine.”

“Thank you.” The woman’s smile deepened as she entered, her arms laden with shopping bags that seemed to weigh her down.

“Oh dear…”

“Watch yourself!” Hadley called out.

So many bags dangled from the woman’s arms that they looked ready to spill at any second.

Without thinking, Hadley stepped forward to keep them from tumbling.

“How nice of you!” The woman’s smile blossomed with relief.

“It’s nothing,” Hadley replied lightly, brushing off the effort as insignificant.

Having intervened already, she figured she might as well finish the task.

“Where would you like these placed?”

“Over there will do!” The woman gestured cheerfully toward an open table.

Was that really appropriate?

A flicker of doubt passed through Hadley—this was, after all, a reception area—yet the woman carried herself as if it were her private parlor.

ε ￠t?€я? ?η ?a?и?νê.

Still, Hadley kept quiet and arranged the bags exactly as directed.

“All set.”

“You’ve saved me, truly you have!” the woman gushed, repeating her thanks.

“Such a considerate girl!”

Her gaze lingered on Hadley, admiration lighting her face.

“And such beauty! A kind heart wrapped in such a lovely appearance.”

“It was nothing, really.” Hadley returned the look with a courteous smile.

“Only a small gesture.”

“Wait—” The woman suddenly clasped her hand, surprise flashing in her eyes.

“Why do you seem so familiar? Have we crossed paths before?”

Hadley guessed immediately—this woman must have seen her through the media.

“Aha!” The woman clapped with sudden recognition.

“That’s it! You’re Hadley Pearson, aren’t you? Oh, how wonderful!”

A laugh bubbled from her lips.

“Of course I know you—I’ve watched your dramas! And—” Her finger tapped her lips with excitement.

“Look at my gloss! You’re also the face of this makeup brand, aren’t you? Those massive billboards—gorgeous!” With a sly grin, she added, “Though none of them capture how radiant you look up close.”

Hadley merely blinked and returned a faint, controlled smile at the woman’s chatter.

.

.

.