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

Chapter 1143:

It constricted like a vice, one breath away from bursting open.

He had done this. He had encouraged it—encouraged Denver to step in.

He had wanted to see Hadley happy and cherished. So why did it feel like his heart was about to break?

Early that morning, Hadley was packing a bag for Joy, preparing her for the day ahead.

The night before, Melba had taken a call from Eric—he’d said he was coming to take Joy out today.

Ernest must’ve passed the message along.

Knowing Eric was coming to pick her up, Joy woke up on her own, no prompting needed.

She trailed Hadley like a little shadow after getting ready.

“Mom, when’s Eric coming?”

Hadley smiled and pointed to the clock on the wall. “He’ll be here at eight.”

7:55, the

buzzing with excitement. She flung the door open with a

Eric crouched down, arms

saw Hadley approaching with

handed it over calmly. “This has everything Joy might need—her water bottle, wet wipes… I also

slung the bag over his shoulder and nodded. “Got it. I’ll

he couldn’t help noticing how bright and composed she seemed. Clearly,

much else. She

“Say goodbye to Mommy.”

new on

shoulder, Joy waved happily.

behave, okay?” Hadley waved from the doorway with

“Okay!”

Joy, a wave

warm, polite, even gracious.

was clear that she really didn’t

to her—but he was no longer part of