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

Chapter 40 Hadley’s Request

“I was actually quite anxious earlier because Mr. Flynn, who usually attends, didn’t show up-” Lennon said, unable to hide his excitement. “But look at this! My worry was for nothing. Even though Mr. Flynn isn’t here, he’s still thinking about you.”

Really?

Hadley managed a smile, though it felt somewhat absurd.

When she was his wife, Eric barely noticed her. Now, hidden behind a mask, she had somehow caught his eye.

Who would have thought Eric would be captivated by a dancer of all people?

She pondered his potential reaction upon discovering who was behind the mask. Disappointment? Or perhaps

even anger?

Regardless, she was certain it wouldn’t be a welcome surprise.

… It was Monday, Hadley’s typical day off.

She had planned to spend the night with Nyla.

Nyla was happy to have her company and saw no reason to refuse.

Arriving early in the morning, Hadley came with her bag and everything she needed for the day.

Nyla woke up early, surprised to find Hadley already there. “Hadley, you’re here so early? Don’t you young people usually sleep in when you don’t have work to do?”

“I can catch up on sleep any time. Missing one day won’t hurt.”

Sitting beside Nyla, Hadley noticed how well she looked. She had been contemplating this conversation for days and had finally decided to voice her thoughts.

“Nyla.” Hadley gently took her hand. “I need to tell you something. Please promise you won’t get upset or agitated. I’m just sharing my feelings.”

Seeing Hadley’s earnest expression, Nyla responded with a reassuring smile, “Alright, I’m all ears.”

“Okay, I’ll say it then.”

“Go ahead.”

“Nyla,” Hadley began, her voice trembling slightly. “I’m so thankful you took me in all those years ago. If it hadn’t been for you, I likely would have had to stop dancing and look for a different job much earlier-”

19:21

Her voice faltered, but she pressed on.

granddaughter. I’ve

cared for me” Hadley, fighting back emotions, made her request “So, I’m asking you, please look after me one more

taken aback momentarily, interpreting Hadley’s solemn demeanor

serious request.

nodding, she urged, “Alright, tell me what it is. Whatever it is, I

appreciate that, thank you,” Hadley began, gathering her resolve. “Please agree to let Eric and

“What?”

of shock. She couldn’t grasp what

what you are asking?” Nyla

do, yes,” Hadley confirmed, her voice thick with emotion. “I once deeply loved Eric-”

truth was undeniable.

now, my feelings have changed.”

her, the bathroom door

doorway, rooted to the spot upon catching the tail

was slightly trembling as she held Hadley’s hand tighter.

a shaky voice, Hadley revealed, “He never truly cared for me. His heart always

Linda.”

speechless, unable to counter the truth. “So you knew,” Nyla murmured under her breath.

in her eyes, “All I want is to find someone who genuinely loves me. I want to experience being truly cared for. Please, grant me

eyes as

well–known secret in Srixby that Nyla’s grandsons both fancied the same woman, a

always favored pairing Hadley with Eric for reasons of

be ridiculed or embroiled in scandal. Finding

best solution.

efforts led to their marriage, but

felt remorseful watching their

said, “I’m so sorry, I’ve wronged you. How will I face your

comes?”

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40 Hadley’s Request

“Nyla.”

offered a tissue to

you let us divorce?”

inquired, “Is there truly no chance for reconciliation? Didn’t you once have

always adored Hadley and believed they were

him leaving me alone to fend for myself in Blathe for four years changed everything. My

hearing Hadley’s mention of those four years, Nyla’s expression

tears dried.

was serious, not merely