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?”

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

faltered, then playfully tapped Joy’s nose with a smile. “He is tied up

Joy’s lip jutted out, her little face crumpling. “He broke his

a needle. A flare of irritation toward Eric surged within her. He could treat her however he liked, but letting

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

hesitated, at a loss for words. “Joy, be a good girl. I’ll

he is not coming for breakfast…” Her pout deepened,

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

phone rang several times

demanded, her

you getting

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

“So

voice sliced through the air, cold and unyielding,