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

Chapter 1454:

Ernest didn’t budge, her efforts futile against his solid frame.

“Elissa!” Seizing the moment, he pulled her into an embrace. “I know this is overwhelming, coming out of nowhere, but…”

“Let me go!” Elissa writhed in his arms, her voice breaking into a frantic scream.

“Just let go!”

Her eyes bored into his, unyielding, as she bit her lip so hard it nearly bled.

“Alright…” Ernest relented, his throat tight. “I’m letting go. I won’t touch you. Just… please, try to calm down.”

Slowly, he eased his hold.

Elissa stared at him, dazed, her breath uneven. Her eyelids fluttered—and then she crumpled.

“Elissa!”

just before she hit the floor, swiftly lifting her in his

Olsvale Bay, in the warm glow of the dining

had returned home early, spending the evening playing with

back to Hadley, he flashed a boyish grin, fishing for

a smile. “You

phone buzzed at

she answered,

I hate to call so late, but…” Ernest’s voice

What’s wrong?” Hadley’s face

stories

I’m on

and

Ernest need something?”

Hadley replied, already moving. Eric nodded and followed

raced to

spotting him lingering outside the door, his face taut with