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

Chapter 1021:

“Hey,” Ernest replied, his eyes scanning Eric’s weary expression. “I’ve been filled in. What’s the plan now?”

Eric’s face was shadowed with worry. At that moment, his options were few, and all he could do was pour his energy into what lay ahead. “For now, there’s no turning back the clock,” he said quietly. “I’ve asked Phillips to contact the finest specialists in SHxby. They’ll arrive tomorrow to examine Linda. We’ll know more once they’ve weighed in.”

Ernest gave a slow nod, his jaw tight. It was the only course left to them.

The next morning, the clock on the wall read 8:30.

Joy stirred awake, her small voice calling out, “Eric?”

At the sound, Hadley swept into the room and scooped her daughter into her arms. “Joy, you’re up, sweetheart.”

“Mommy…” Joy rubbed her sleepy eyes, peering toward the door. “Where’s Eric?”

to waking to Eric’s presence—his help with

Joy’s nose with a smile. “He is tied up

lip jutted out, her little face crumpling. “He

of irritation toward Eric surged within her. He could treat her however he liked, but letting Joy

Joy mumbled, her head drooping, still crestfallen. She looked up at her

“Joy, be a good

pout deepened, and she pressed, “Will he come see me today?” Once again, Hadley

her clothes, Melba took her to wash up. Hadley turned, snatching her phone from the table. She dialed

rang several times before Eric

are you?” Hadley demanded, her voice edged with

are you

“I was about to call. I can’t make it this

sharp, bitter. She had expected this. “So you’re bailing? That is not

cold and unyielding, leaving no