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

Chapter 537:

The thought was almost laughable—ridiculous, even!

As she wrestled with these questions, Eric finished his call and approached her, phone still in hand.

Hadley lifted her gaze to his striking features. Without thinking, she reached out her arms. “Hold me.”

Eric froze, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he swallowed. The softness in her voice—especially at this early hour—was utterly disarming.

Noticing his hesitation, Hadley teased him, eyes playful yet challenging. “Why are you staring at me like that? You don’t want to hold me?”

She pouted, pretending irritation. “I’m barefoot. If I walk upstairs by myself, aren’t you going to scold me again?” Seated below him, she tilted her chin upward, eyes glittering softly, drawing him in irresistibly.

Truly, she was breathtaking. Eric had always known Hadley was beautiful—but in the past, he’d never felt compelled to possess that beauty. Now, however, the idea of anyone else even glancing at her made his heart twist uncomfortably.

hold you,” Eric finally said, voice low and gentle. He leaned down and scooped

and laid her down on the bed

shaking her head. “Too much

stood, fetched a tablet, and placed it gently in Hadley’s lap. “Here—keep yourself busy. Watch some shows or play

“Go ahead. I’m not a

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He laughed lightly, tucking the blanket snugly around her. Just before leaving, he hesitated and turned back with a curious

shrugged nonchalantly, her tone cool. “I didn’t think I had to. The old place was cramped and outdated, and now I share an apartment with someone else. Yesterday was just an accident. Next time, don’t barge in

Eric raised an eyebrow, suddenly

living with—they have a child?” Hadley’s breath caught, her palms growing clammy.

her cheek teasingly. “Come on, did you think I wouldn’t notice? Yesterday, I saw children’s things lying

with a

all costs. She kept her tone convincingly casual. “Relax. It’s just a single mom and