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

Chapter 1024:

“And when it happens again?” Hadley didn’t yield, her expression tight with resolve. “Can you promise it won’t?”

Eric wavered, words failing him.

Hadley let out a quiet, bitter chuckle. “Let’s be clear—I only said yes to your ‘proposal’ for Joy’s sake. To me, my daughter’s joy outweighs your woman’s life by miles! If you hurt Joy…” Her voice dipped, cold and unwavering, each syllable a dagger. “I won’t let it go quietly! Trust me—I’ll fight tooth and nail!”

Her ferocity sent a chill through Eric.

Hadley arched a brow, her tone ironclad. “So either walk away now, while Joy’s not too hooked on you and can still move on easier. Or step inside, and from here on out, you’re there every single time she needs you—no excuses!”

“Mommy! Is that him?”

Before Eric could answer, Joy’s little feet pattered closer, her voice bubbling up.

“Whoa!”

Her face lit up like a firework when she spotted Eric.

“You’re here! Hug me!”

Eric’s heart softened as he scooped

into his chest, her small arms looping tightly around his neck. “I’ve been waiting for you to read me a story and

that so?” Eric cast a quick look at Hadley before stepping inside with Joy in his arms. “I’m sorry,

spot, her fingers pressing against her temples after a drawn-out

bond with Eric was deepening by the

hadn’t been around all day, and when Joy finally saw him, she latched on tightly, not willing

Mommy will get upset, and I won’t be allowed

the trick. Joy’s eyes shut tight

the magic begins

blanket over her and waited until her breathing evened

was by the door, her turn to stay

a glance at

Eric reached out, trying to

really out of sorts right now. Just give it

peered back into the room, cautious not to wake Joy, and then