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

Chapter 989:

Far from holding a grudge, Eric owed Denver a heartfelt thank-you. As Denver had pointed out, without his quick thinking, Hadley might have slipped away forever.

Eric squeezed his eyes shut, the weight of that thought pressing down on him. Compared to the nightmare of losing Hadley forever, being outplayed by Denver was a mere drop in the bucket.

“It doesn’t matter,” Eric said through gritted teeth, shaking his head as his gaze locked onto the hospital door. “All we can do now is bide our time.”

Waiting was his only card left to play. Hadley was safe, and that was a balm to his frayed nerves. Yet a nagging question gnawed at him. Had Hadley’s heart always belonged to Denver?

She had never given him a chance, but there was a time when Denver had lit a spark in her. Now, with Denver playing the hero, risking it all to save her, would she run back into his arms?

Inside the sterile confines of the hospital room, Hadley rested motionless on the bed, an oxygen mask cradling her face. The soft shuffle of footsteps stirred her, and her eyes fluttered open.

“Hadley,” Denver murmured, his voice a gentle breeze as he glided to her bedside, careful not to ruffle her fragile peace. “How are you holding up?”

her lips to reply, but Denver swiftly waved her off. “Don’t strain yourself. The nurse said you’re still too weak to talk. A blink or a

dipping like curtains at the end of a quiet scene—a silent reassurance that she was on

efforts. He reached for Hadley’s hand, his grip tender. “You gave me the scare of my life, but thank heavens you’re in the clear

“The nurse mentioned you

a small nod, her eyes steady

– ?????

voice softened, his eyes glistening as he read Hadley’s unspoken thoughts. “I’m right as

eyes darting to his arm as a rough, raspy sound scratched its way out

how Denver had thrown it up to shield

pain. “Ouch… well, it does hurt a bit!” He chuckled, brushing it off. “Slipped

a gentle squeeze. “I’ll have it looked at soon. You

let him wave it

face pleading with Denver to take

soft laugh. “Alright, I hear you.

his smile dimming