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

along with Marshall’s assumption, Eric responded, “Exactly.”

you is old news. We haven’t been a part of her life for years. Out of sight, out of mind, right? Even the deepest infatuation fades away

He chuckled heartily.

have found someone

expression unreadable, his voice devoid of enthusiasm. “That

Eric’s eyes,

tie from Marshall, Eric approached a nearby trash can

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

evening, Hadley was

swing, attracting huge crowds, much

the dressing room until her

from in ages.

there, Mr. Webster.”

name, the assistant director who

been eagerly anticipating Elvin’s call for several

I mentioned last time? It’s shaping up. We’re

excited Hadley immensely.

hesitated, unsure. “I’m a bit worried

part–time dance doubles shortlisted.” Elvin tried to reassure her. “Once we finalize the schedule, we’ll coordinate with

exactly

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

“That sounds reasonable.”

might you be free to

inquired, “Is four p.m.

responded promptly, confirming her availability since it didn’t conflict with her shifts

“Where will we meet?”

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19:20

at Central Cinema, located in Metropolitan

Webster. Thank you.” Hadley expressed her gratitude, ending the call with a

excitement.

another gig, it was part of a major production, possibly even a movie. She speculated about the potential earnings, recalling the four hundred dollars she made in

day, Eric arrived at Metropolitan Plaza a little after two

exited the parking garage and took the elevator to the Central Cinema,

Media–a company initiated by Ernest–was starring

made it a point to support the company’s top actress. He chose to arrive early for the three o’clock premiere to

powerful message throughout the film industry–the Flynn far supported

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around Eric, each eager to get his attention and possibly secure a partnership with

Flynn, take a look at this script, would you? It might be something Miss Harris would

“I suggest you discuss it directly with

industry veterans

have everything under control, especially with Eric by her side. That’s some

over there. He might hear us,” another

Eric’s her main supporter. It’s

win her over.”

approached, beaming, with director