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?”

few days, she had grown used to waking to Eric’s presence—his help with dressing, washing up, and

with a smile. “He

her little face crumpling.

within her. He could treat her however he liked, but letting Joy down? That was unforgivable. “Chin up, Joy,” Hadley

drooping, still crestfallen. She looked up at her mother. “Will Eric

hesitated, at a loss for words. “Joy, be

to grasp the truth. “So he is not coming for breakfast…” Her pout deepened, and she pressed, “Will he come

Joy into her clothes, Melba took her to wash up. Hadley turned, snatching

rang several times before

demanded,

you getting

trace of reluctance in his tone. “I was about to call. I can’t

“So you’re bailing? That

air, cold