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-”

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Her voice faltered, but she pressed on.

are like my own granddaughter.

back emotions, made her request “So, I’m asking you, please look after me one

was taken aback momentarily, interpreting Hadley’s solemn demeanor

serious request.

she urged, “Alright, tell me what it

began, gathering her resolve. “Please agree to let Eric

“What?”

was a mask of shock. She couldn’t grasp

you are asking?” Nyla

her voice thick with emotion. “I

truth was

now, my feelings have changed.”

the bathroom door was

the doorway, rooted to the spot upon catching

as she held Hadley’s hand tighter.

never truly cared

Linda.”

truth. “So you knew,” Nyla murmured under her

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

Nyla’s eyes as she

both fancied the same woman,

favored pairing Hadley with Eric

Flynn family to be ridiculed or embroiled in scandal. Finding Eric a different

best solution.

their marriage, but it had eventually turned

remorseful watching their

you. How will I face your grandmother when my time

comes?”

27.3%

19:21

111

O

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Hadley’s

“Nyla.”

tissue to dry

will you let

for a moment, Nyla then inquired, “Is there truly no chance for reconciliation? Didn’t you once have deep feelings for

motives, she always adored Hadley and believed they were a good

cared for him deeply,” Hadley acknowledged, but then added resolutely, “But him leaving me alone to fend for myself in Blathe for four years changed

Hadley’s mention of those four years, Nyla’s expression hardened noticeably, and any

tears dried.

Hadley was serious,