Too Late, Mr. Billionaire: You Can't Afford Me by Thedora Birnir

Chapter 36 Linda Is So Lucky

“Marshall,” Eric interjected, his voice smooth and nonchalant, a mischievous glint in his eye. “She’s expressing

genuine gratitude. Why not just accept it gracefully?”

Marshall paused, slightly bewildered by Eric’s response.

What was his friend playing at?

Could it be that Eric was trying to avoid any deeper involvement with Hadley? Maybe he feared she might cling

to him again if the truth came out.

“Sure thing.” Marshall eventually gave in, deciding to support Eric’s strange charade.

“No big deal,” Marshall said smoothly, picking up where Hadley left off. “I appreciate the gesture, Hadley.”

“Actually,” Hadley added, suddenly recalling another detail.

She extended her hand, presenting a neatly folded tie. “I also wanted to return this to you.”

Marshall looked at the tie, his smile widening as he accepted it.

“I took care to wash it, used the hotel’s hairdryer to dry it, and even ironed it out. It should be just like new,”

Hadley explained, ensuring everything was returned in perfect condition.

“Cool.” Marshall acknowledged with a nod. “You always handle things well, Hadley.”

“It’s no big deal,” Hadley responded casually, adding a shrug. “Looks like you’ve got a lot on your plate. I won’t

keep you.”

Marshall glanced at Eric briefly before asking Hadley, “Do you need me to arrange a ride for you?”

Eric remained impassive.

“No need!” Hadley quickly dismissed the offer. “I’ll catch the bus. Thanks anyway! See you around!”

With a quick turn, she started walking away.

“Stay safe on your way!” Marshall called after her.

“Will do!”

After she had left, Marshall faced Eric. “Why the insistence on keeping her at arm’s length? Afraid she’ll get too attached again?”

Eric, caught off guard by the comment, blinked. He wasn’t really worried about that; he was more annoyed that Hadley seemed to be feigning ignorance.

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19:20

assumption, Eric responded, “Exactly.”

crush on you is old news. We haven’t been a part of her life for years.

He chuckled heartily.

have found someone

expression unreadable, his voice devoid of enthusiasm. “That would

in Eric’s eyes, revealing

nearby trash

day I get tangled with her again is the day I admit I’m a fool,” Eric muttered

that evening, Hadley was at Galant.

in full swing, attracting huge crowds, much to

in the dressing room until her phone rang. It was a call from

heard from in

there, Mr. Webster.”

his full name, the assistant director who had exchanged WhatsApp contacts with Hadley during their

for several days, and it

her warmly. “About that opportunity I mentioned last time? It’s shaping up. We’re preparing for

excited Hadley immensely.

“I’m a bit

to reassure her. “Once

was exactly what

“I’ve recommended you specifically to the director. The dance sequences are crucial, and since you’re new, he’s keen to meet you

“That sounds reasonable.”

might you be free to

schedule and then inquired, “Is four

problem,” Hadley responded promptly, confirming her availability since it didn’t

“Where will we meet?”

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19:20

Metropolitan Plaza. And remember, punctuality is key”

gratitude, ending the call with a burst of

excitement.

speculated about the potential earnings, recalling the four hundred dollars she made in just a few minutes at her last job.

day, Eric arrived at Metropolitan Plaza a little after two in the afternoon.

he exited the parking garage and took the elevator to the Central

actress with East Entertainment Media–a company initiated by

Eric managed East Entertainment Media, he made it a point to support the company’s top actress. He chose to arrive early for the three o’clock premiere to

premiere sent a powerful message throughout the film industry–the Flynn far supported Linda, solidifying

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to get his attention and possibly secure a partnership with his

It might be something Miss Harris would

averted smoothly. “I suggest you discuss it directly with Linda.

nearby conversation, industry veterans commented quietly among

have everything under control, especially

it down! Eric is just over there. He might hear us,” another cautioned

Everyone knows Eric’s her main supporter. It’s no secret. Makes you wonder if

win her over.”

the murmurs, Linda approached, beaming, with director