Ch. 211..220
Chapter 211
Yuna was Hayden's little sister, but honestly, she was more like his kid since he pretty much raised her.
Their bond was so strong, it made sense why someone as tough as Hayden got all protective and worried when it came to her.
Yuna shared a bunch of stories about them, like how Hayden built this courtyard himself, brick by brick.
She also mentioned how he used to take her fishing and grill the fish, always bragging that his cooking was top-tier-he'd perfected it just to make sure she ate well.
As Yuna shared more stories, I started to understand Hayden better-like, in a way that really tugged at my heart.
All his little quirks came from carrying the weight of responsibility and loneliness for so long.
Yuna eventually drifted off mid-conversation. Watching her sleep, I suddenly had the urge to call Hayden, to tell him that from now on, I'd take care of him for a change, instead of him always looking out for everyone else. But the feeling passed, and I didn't follow through.
Instead of calling Hayden, I dialed Lena.
"Where'd you go?" she asked, sounding totally wiped.
I could tell something was up. "What's wrong? You just got out of surgery or something? You sound exhausted."
"I'm sick," Lena said, and those two words caught me off guard.
Then again, with how much she overworks, it wasn't all that shocking.
People aren't machines-doctors get sick too.
"What happened? You take anything for it?" I asked, a little worried.
"Yeah, it's nothing serious, just burnout," she said, but quickly changed the subject. "But where did you go? You didn't have another meltdown, did you?"
I laughed. "Do I seem like the kind of person who runs at the first sign of trouble?"
"No," she said. Lena knew me too well for that.
"Lena, I need a favor." I explained the whole situation with Yuna, but Lena went quiet for a long time.
I started to wonder if she was stuck. "What's up? You don't have any contacts in that field?"
"...I do," Lena finally said, after what felt like forever. "And based on what you've told me, it sounds doable.
"Thanks, Lena, I really appreciate it." I didn't pick up on anything strange at first.
Then she hit me with, "But I don't want to reach out to that person."
Her words totally threw me.
Chapter 211
I froze for a second. "Wait, do you have some grudge against him? Or... is this more personal?"
Lena laughed at my teasing. "No grudges."
"So, personal then?" I pressed, and suddenly remembered-back in college, Lena had this huge crush on a student of senior year.
It was one of those secret crushes that lasted forever.
But she never told him. Never made a move.
The reason, as she'd once told me, was simple: "He already had someone perfect for him."
Lena was in love, but she had her boundaries.
"Is your old crush married now?" I asked, half-joking.
Lena went quiet for a few seconds. "I don't know. After graduation, I stopped following his life. The only thing I've seen are his published papers. He's a big deal in cardiology now." Hearing that made me even more hopeful about Yuna's chances.
"Lena, you should reach out. Saving a life is more important than anything else," I said, gently pushing her even though I knew it wasn't easy.
I couldn't help but think selfishly too. Maybe, just maybe, he wasn't with the girl Lena thought was perfect for him. Maybe this whole thing could reconnect them and give her another chance. Lena sighed. "Keira, you really are the type to pick love over everything else, huh?" Hearing her say that, I knew she was in.
Chapter
212
Yuna was so lonely, she practically begged me to stay
I only had two days off, but to spend more time with her, I asked Ron for an extra two.
But all good things would come to an end, and eventually, I had to go.
Before I left, Yuna packed me some flower tea brewed with morning dew and food steamed with flower pollen and petals. She was determined to give me everything she cherished most.
I could tell she'd grown really attached to me, and that made me feel a kind of responsibility I couldn't quite explain.
"Keira, come visit me when you have time," Yuna said, avoiding my eyes.
I could see the tears welling up, though she tried to hide them.
She was this perfect mix of fragile but incredibly strong on the inside.
"Okay," I said quietly, not trusting myself to say much more.
I felt the sting in my nose too, worried I might start crying before she did.
Goodbyes are like the softest blades-they cut the deepest.
"I've already asked a friend to contact the doctor. Once it's all set, Hayden and I will come pick you up," I said, hugging her tight, trying to give her a little hope.
"Alright, I'll be waiting for you," Yuna replied, her words giving me the push I needed to keep going.
On the way back, I shot a message to Lena. She told me to come straight to her place as soon as my flight landed.
This time, I flew back instead of taking the high-speed train. I slept through the whole flight, my dreams filled with memories of Yuna-us gardening, strolling by the river, staying up late, swapping stories in bed.
A flight attendant woke me when we landed. It was already evening. I grabbed a taxi, but instead of going home, I headed to the repair shop to pick up my car.
Before I got there, my phone rang. It was Jace.
Ever since he and Tanya went public, Jace hadn't bothered me, so if he was calling now, it had to be important.
I picked up, but before I could say anything, Jace blurted out, "Did my dad really go gray overnight?"
His question hit me like ice water. How was he only finding out about this now? Days later? And the fact that he was asking me meant he hadn't even seen Matthew himself.
I had no idea how to respond. I couldn't find the words to express how angry I was.
"Rea, say something," Jace pushed, sounding desperate.
"What do you want me to say? You could go see for yourself, couldn't you?" I snapped, my patience- carefully built up from those quiet days with Yuna-crumbling in seconds. Chapter 212
The silence on the other end was deafening. I was about to hang up when Jace finally spoke.
"They won't let me in the house anymore."
'Serves you right. Those words screamed in my
head.
+25 BON
"Rea, I'm completely alone now," he said, his voice sounding utterly broken.
But I didn't feel sorry for him. Instead, I shot back, "This is what you chose."
"Heh," he let out a bitter, hollow laugh. "Yeah, I did. I deserve this."
At least he was aware of it.
"Rea, is my dad completely disappointed in me now?" Jace asked, and the sheer stupidity of the question made my blood boil.
Matthew had gone gray overnight because of him-disappointment didn't even scratch the surface. It was heartbreak, frustration, anger, and a deep sadness only Matthew could fully comprehend.
Jace once claimed his parents treated him and Wayne equally, but as an outsider, I knew better. They'd always favored Jace, even if just a little more.
And now, he'd pushed them to the point of total disillusionment.
"Rea, can I ask you for a favor?" Jace's voice was soft, almost pleading-something I'd never heard from him before.
Chapter 213 Chapter 213 I had no clue what Jace was after, so I kept quiet, letting the silence stretch. But of course, he didn't wait.
"My parents can't stand Tanya, especially my mom. Do you think... maybe you could say something nice about her to help out?" Seriously?
Was he for real? Asking me to talk up Tanya? Either he'd lost it or he thought I was a total doormat.
"If you really want me to say something, it's not gonna be anything good," I shot back, not even pretending to be calm.
"Rea, I-"
"Jace, I'm not a saint. I'm definitely not the bigger person here. And Tanya? She means nothing to me. So why would I go out of my way to say something nice about her?" I snapped.
Jace's voice cut through the silence again, "Are you acting like this because you're jealous?"
I let out a dry laugh. "Oh, so that's what this is about? You're fishing to see if I'm jealous? Well, let me save you the trouble-I'm not. Actually, I'm kinda relieved. Relieved I figured you out sooner rather than later." Jace sighed on the other end. "The only thing I gave Tanya was a title. I owe her that much, but honestly, there's nothing between us."
I frowned, already over it. "That's your problem, Jace. Not mine."
"But I don't have anyone else to talk to," he said, sounding frustrated, almost desperate.
Hearing him like this-so defeated-was weird. He'd always been so cocky, so in control.
But honestly, none of that mattered anymore. Whatever mess he was in? Not my problem. We were both grown, and he had to deal with the fallout of his own choices.
"Yeah, well, I'm kinda busy," I said, pausing just long enough before hanging up.
I drove over to the repair shop, picked up my car, and headed straight to Lena's.
Hayden hadn't reached out in the past few days, but I figured he knew I was busy with Yuna.
Demi had texted me earlier, saying the lighting tests were almost done. Apparently, Hayden had been pulling all-nighters, tweaking and adjusting the lights.
So, whatever free time he used to have had turned into sleepless nights.
When I got to Lena's, she looked rough-her cold had really knocked her out. It wasn't just a sniffle; this flu had taken her down for days. She was finally getting a much-needed break at home. "I'm still contagious, you know. Stay back or I'll give it to you," she teased as soon as she saw me.
I pulled her into a big hug anyway. "Go ahead, I dare you."
She playfully smacked my arm a couple of times. "Don't think I don't know why you're acting all reckless. "You're not even married to Hayden yet, and you're already spoiling his little sister like this. Chapter 213 "You're the first future sister-in-law I've seen who's this extra."
Since she brought up Yuna, I didn't even try to hide my curiosity. "So, any progress?"
Lena didn't say anything right away, so I tilted my head, giving her a look. "Don't tell me you still haven't worked up the nerve, Lena. This is serious-a matter of life and death."
"Do I look like I'm that helpless?" she shot back.
My eyes lit up. "You reached out! What did he say?"
Lena went quiet again, and I was losing patience. I shook her arm. "Come on, spill! What did he say? Can he do it?"
She sighed. "He said... he'd be back in a few days and would contact me then."
I narrowed my eyes, not buying it. "That's it? Just that?"
Lena shrugged. "Yep. Just that one sentence."
"Just one sentence?" I asked, not convinced.
She swatted my hand away. "I'm serious, that's all he said. He'll be back next Tuesday, and when he's here, I'll take you to meet him. Don't forget to bring that girl's medical records." "Wait, I'm going too?" I blinked, surprised.
Lena raised an eyebrow. "What, you thought I'd go alone?"
I nodded firmly. "Yep. You're going solo. I'm not gonna be the third wheel."
Lena stayed quiet for a second, then said softly, "That perfect someone he had? She works with him. They're in the same group."
Her words hit me like a punch to the gut.
Lena gave a sad smile. "So, yeah... there's nothing to hope for. We were never meant to be."
Chapter 214
Lena was always the level-headed one, but she had a habit of avoiding things she didn't want to deal with. Sometimes, she'd make up her mind without even giving it a shot.
In that way, we were different. But hey, everyone has their own way of seeing things, their own way of handling life.
There's this saying-no one can really interfere in someone else's life. Even with how close Lena and I were, that still rang true.
I crashed at her place for the night before finally heading home. I still hadn't seen Hayden.
When I got back, my downstairs neighbor stopped me, asking if I'd gone on vacation with my "boyfriend." Apparently, neither of us had been around for a while, and that's when it hit me-Hayden hadn't come back the entire time I was gone. Even though Demi told me he was busy, I knew the truth-Hayden only stayed here because of me. When I was around, he would be home every day. But the second I wasn't? He wouldn't even bother. Well, if he wasn't coming to me, I'd go to him.
I headed to the amusement park. The moment Demi spotted me, she sprinted over, wrapping me in a tight hug before landing two solid punches on my shoulder. "Keira, you're so heartless! You haven't come to see me in forever." Those punches hurt-like I'd actually done something to deserve them.
"Aren't I here now?" I said, patting Demi on the back, but my eyes were already drifting toward Hayden.
He was up at the highest point of the structure, strapped into a harness, hard hat on, doing some kind of inspection.
But even from that height, he was already watching me. I waved.
Hayden hit a button and started slowly descending. I smiled and turned back to Demi. "So, what, is Mr. Hart still giving you a hard time? That's why you're so salty?"
"Nope, he's actually way nicer now," Demi said with a grin, then added, "Keira, you've changed. You're not like before."
I blinked, caught off guard. "Changed how? Tanned?"
The past few days with Yuna had been all about getting lost in nature-soaking up the sun, feeling the wind, even wading through rivers. I'd done it all.
"No, not like that," Demi said with a grin. "It's like you're more carefree. More beautiful, even. And... kind of captivating."
Before I could respond, Hayden reached the ground. He stepped down easily, his long legs and work gear giving him this intense, masculine vibe.
For a split second, I had this wild urge to run over and just kiss him right then and there.
"Mr. Hart," Demi greeted him formally, snanning me
Chapter 214
"The lights in section D, groups 3 through 6, are unstable. Check on them and send me last night's dynamic lighting footage for that area," Hayden ordered, all business. Demi pouted, glancing at me like she didn't want to go.
I wanted some alone time with Hayden, so I waved her off.
"Don't leave! Let's have lunch later," Demi said, probably really missing me as she tried to rope me into plans.
She was sweet, but wow, completely oblivious today. Couldn't she feel the tension between Hayden and me? She used to pick up on stuff like this way faster! "Handle your work first. We'll see about lunch later," I said, trying to gently push her along.
"You two chat. I'll check on the lights," Demi finally said, nodding at Hayden before walking off-slowly- and throwing glances back at us like every few steps.
Once Demi, our "third wheel", was finally gone, Hayden and I just stood there, neither of us saying a word. We just stood there, locked in this intense stare, the kind of tension thick enough to slice through. "Are you tired?" Hayden finally asked, breaking the silence. "Not really," I replied, just as a breeze swept through, messing up my hair and blowing it across my face.
I brushed it back, and when looked at him again, his expression had changed. His eyes had darkened, the intensity there unmistakable. I watched as his Adam's apple bobbed slightly, like he was trying to keep something in.
My gaze lingered on his throat for a second before I spoke again. "You sure there's nothing you want to say to me?"
Chapter 214
Lena was always the level-headed one, but she had a habit of avoiding things she didn't want to deal with. Sometimes, she'd make up her mind without even giving it a shot.
In that way, we were different. But hey, everyone has their own way of seeing things, their own way of handling life.
There's this saying-no one can really interfere in someone else's life. Even with how close Lena and I were, that still rang true.
I crashed at her place for the night before finally heading home. I still hadn't seen Hayden.
When I got back, my downstairs neighbor stopped me, asking if I'd gone on vacation with my "boyfriend." Apparently, neither of us had been around for a while, and that's when it hit me-Hayden hadn't come back the entire time I was gone. Even though Demi told me he was busy, I knew the truth-Hayden only stayed here because of me. When I was around, he would be home every day. But the second I wasn't? He wouldn't even bother. Well, if he wasn't coming to me, I'd go to him.
I headed to the amusement park. The moment Demi spotted me, she sprinted over, wrapping me in a tight hug before landing two solid punches on my shoulder. "Keira, you're so heartless! You haven't come to see me in forever." Those punches hurt-like I'd actually done something to deserve them.
"Aren't I here now?" I said, patting Demi on the back, but my eyes were already drifting toward Hayden.
He was up at the highest point of the structure, strapped into a harness, hard hat on, doing some kind of inspection.
But even from that height, he was already watching me. I waved.
Hayden hit a button and started slowly descending. I smiled and turned back to Demi. "So, what, is Mr. Hart still giving you a hard time? That's why you're so salty?"
"Nope, he's actually way nicer now," Demi said with a grin, then added, "Keira, you've changed. You're not like before."
I blinked, caught off guard. "Changed how? Tanned?"
The past few days with Yuna had been all about getting lost in nature-soaking up the sun, feeling the wind, even wading through rivers. I'd done it all.
"No, not like that," Demi said with a grin. "It's like you're more carefree. More beautiful, even. And... kind of captivating."
Before I could respond, Hayden reached the ground. He stepped down easily, his long legs and work gear giving him this intense, masculine vibe.
For a split second, I had this wild urge to run over and just kiss him right then and there.
"Mr. Hart," Demi greeted him formally, snanning me
Chapter 214
"The lights in section D, groups 3 through 6, are unstable. Check on them and send me last night's dynamic lighting footage for that area," Hayden ordered, all business. Demi pouted, glancing at me like she didn't want to go.
I wanted some alone time with Hayden, so I waved her off.
"Don't leave! Let's have lunch later," Demi said, probably really missing me as she tried to rope me into plans.
She was sweet, but wow, completely oblivious today. Couldn't she feel the tension between Hayden and me? She used to pick up on stuff like this way faster!
"Handle your work first. We'll see about lunch later," I said, trying to gently push her along.
"You two chat. I'll check on the lights," Demi finally said, nodding at Hayden before walking off-slowly- and throwing glances back at us like every few steps.
Once Demi, our "third wheel", was finally gone, Hayden and I just stood there, neither of us saying a word. We just stood there, locked in this intense stare, the kind of tension thick enough to slice through. "Are you tired?" Hayden finally asked, breaking the silence. "Not really," I replied, just as a breeze swept through, messing up my hair and blowing it across my face.
I brushed it back, and when looked at him again, his expression had changed. His eyes had darkened, the intensity there unmistakable. I watched as his Adam's apple bobbed slightly, like he was trying to keep something in.
My gaze lingered on his throat for a second before I spoke again. "You sure there's nothing you want to say to me?"
Chapter 215
Chapter 215
After visiting his place, I was pretty sure Yuna had spilled everything to Hayden.
"If you like it there, in the future..." Hayden started, then trailed off, leaving me hanging.
I gave him a look. "In the future, what?"
He swallowed hard before speaking again. "In the future... we could retire there."
"By myself?" I blurted out, not even thinking.
"I'd come with you-if you wanted me to," he said, totally straightforward.
And just like that, I started pulling away again. The future? Seriously? Especially something as far off as, like, growing old together.
"I found a specialist for Yuna. You should get me her medical records," I said, switching the topic fast.
Last night, I was silently judging Lena for dodging the truth, but wasn't I doing the exact same thing?
I was burying my head in the sand too, but I had my reasons. I wanted to keep Hayden on his toes, not let him in too easily.
Lena once told me that the reason Jace always brushed me off and never took me seriously was because I made things too easy for him.
People don't appreciate things they don't have to work for. If someone hands you a piece of fruit, you might not even bother with it if you're not hungry. But if you buy it yourself, even if it's not great, you'll probably eat it just because you spent money on it. Hayden went quiet, and I thought back to what Yuna had said. I knew he was worried.
"I'll have the specialist look at her records first. Once we understand the surgery risks, you can make the final call," I said, giving him the power.
"I've already talked to some people. Her surgery's really dangerous. Way more than normal heart surgery, mostly because of her rare blood type and..." He stopped, like he wasn't sure he should keep going. "She's got other health problems too." I was caught off guard. Yuna had only mentioned her blood type-nothing else.
"What other problems?" I asked, not sugarcoating it.
I needed to know everything, to make sure the doctors had all the info when they looked into her condition.
Hayden stepped to the side, gripping the railing.
followed, watching his face, my chest tightening. "Hayden..."
"She has a brain tumor," he whispered, barely audible. "And it's inoperable."
1 wasn't an expert in medical stuff, but even I knew a tumor in the brain was bad news.
I stared at his cold, handsome face, my mouth opening, but no words came out. "When did they find this?
Chapter 215
Or...?"
"It's congenital," he said quietly.
Congenital. Her heart condition was congenital, and now this too.
So Yuna, this sweet, innocent girl, had been set up for a life of struggle from the moment she was born. "The doctors said she wouldn't live past twenty," Hayden's voice was so low it was like the air around us got heavier. That's when it hit me-I hadn't even asked Yuna how old she was during all the time we'd spent together. I glanced at Hayden, my stomach twisting. "So, how old is she now?" "Nineteen."
One year left. My heart sank. How could someone so full of life have so little time?
"No way. That can't be right. She's healthier than all of us. Those doctors don't know what they're talking about," I said, refusing to accept it, pushing against the truth.
Hayden dropped his gaze, his voice thick with sorrow. "I want nothing more than for her to live a long life. If I could, I'd give her mine."
His words hit me like a gut punch. I stepped closer, resting my hand on his wrist, wanting to say something-anything-to make it better, but I was completely lost for words.
1
In the end, I just tugged his arm, and when he finally turned to face me, I pulled him into a hug.
Hello 216
Hello 216
Chapter 216
Hayden went totally stiff in my arms. After a few seconds, he mumbled, "Are you pitying me?"
"I feel bad for you," I corrected.
He didn't say anything, and he definitely didn't hug me back, which made things way more awkward.
Right when I was about to let go, I glanced up and saw Jace standing a few feet away.
Wait, he was here?
I
And of course, Demi didn't bother giving me the heads-up.
I was about to drop Hayden's hand, but instead, I squeezed it tighter. He tried to pull away, but I held on.
Don't move."
He stopped. I kept holding his hand as I asked, "You're working late again tonight?"
Hayden gave a quiet, "Hmm?"
I stood on my tiptoes, leaning in close to his ear. "I've been craving your cooking."
I heard his Adam's apple move, followed by a soft, "Yeah." A tingle shot through me.
My gaze flickered over to where Jace stood,
In that quick glance, I saw him-fists clenched, face shifting from pale to dark, his eyes stormy before he finally turned and walked away.
I let go of Hayden and was about to say something when Demi's voice rang out from nearby, "Hi, Mr. Johnston!"
Hayden turned and saw Jace walking away, then looked back at me.
For a second, I couldn't meet his eyes. He probably thought my whole affectionate act was just for Jace's benefit.
And honestly, he wasn't wrong. So, I didn't bother explaining myself. There was no point.
Demi came running up, out of breath. "Mr. Hart, one of the guys knocked out the light in section C, group 7-3 while installing the equipment." Accidents are the last thing you want on a worksite, but they're bound to happen.
Hayden's expression didn't change. He just said, "Let's go check it out."
With that, he turned and walked off, acting like I wasn't even there. I stood there, awkward, unsure if I should follow or stay.
Feeling embarrassed about my childish act earlier, I was about to let out a deep breath when I suddenly heard Hayden's voice. "Aren't you coming?"
J met his eyes. They were calm and steady, like nothing had ever happened.
He really was a master at keeping his emotions in check. Just moments ago, he'd been upset, but now there wasn't a trace of it..
Chapter 216
"Keira, come see this. It's bad. Such a headache," Demi called out, still whining.
Even though I hadn't been around much lately, I still cared about what was happening here, so I quickly followed after them.
Maybe I was moving too fast or tripped over something, but suddenly I stumbled forward.
Hayden's arm shot out, catching me, and I ended up crashing into his chest.
It all happened so smoothly, it felt like a scene straight out of a rom-com. Demi, standing nearby, went wide-eyed for a second before covering her mouth, grinning like she knew exactly what was up. Normally, I'd be dying of embarrassment, but this time? Nah.
I just pulled away, super chill, and said, "Thanks."
Hayden didn't say anything, just kept walking. Demi hooked her arm through mine and whispered, "Keira, did you notice? Mr. Hart's ears are red."
I hadn't before, but now that she mentioned it, I glanced over. Sure enough, they were.
For such a tough guy, his ears turning red was kinda... cute.
"Keira, Mr. Hart is so pure. One little hug and his ears are blushing. He's definitely a virgin," Demi whispered, trying to hold back a laugh.
I nudged her away. "Seriously? Is there anything else going on in that brain of yours?"
Chapter 217
Demi nodded. "Oh, yeah. My brain's basically an amusement park. Full of rides and these pretty lights."
She laughed and squeezed me tighter. "And guess what? You're in there too."
This girl could charm anyone.
We got to the spot where the accident went down. Hayden climbed up to check out the damage, scribbling in his notebook as he went.
"We lost two sets of lights. Each set had twenty-two bulbs, with, like, thirteen different colors," Hayden said, scanning the broken lights before glancing at the crane off in the distance. Finally, Hayden turned to Demi. "Call your superior and get him over here. We need to figure out who's responsible for this mess and check the damages."
Demi blinked in surprise. "Oh, right!" She quickly pulled out her phone and dialed Wayne.
It wasn't long before Wayne showed up. When he spotted me, he froze for a second, obviously not expecting me. But after a beat, he smirked. "Rea, doing an early inspection?" His tone had a slight edge to it-he knew I wasn't in charge anymore.
I knew Wayne wasn't trying to be mean-just teasing-so I gave him a small smile. "Nope, just here to see Hayden."
As soon as I said that, I caught a flicker of something in Wayne's eyes, but he quickly shifted his attention to Hayden. "The contractor already told me about the accident."
That was his way of telling Hayden to drop it.
I glanced at Hayden, but his expression stayed cool and professional, like he wasn't even fazed. "If they've admitted fault, they'll cover the damages. I'll handle the replacements and send you the invoice."
Hayden wasn't playing into Wayne's attempt to smooth things over or let it slide.
Wayne, who was usually easygoing, looked a little irritated. "This is on me. I should've managed things better. I'll take responsibility."
He was clearly using his position to try and get Hayden to back off.
But Hayden wasn't having any of it. "Then the invoice is yours."
Wayne's face darkened, and I had to bite my lip to keep from laughing.
Hayden was totally going off-script. It was clear he wasn't following the usual corporate playbook either.
The two of them stood there, just a step apart, locked in this quiet standoff.
Even Derni felt the tension. She nudged me, nervously clutching my sleeve.
I stayed quiet. No matter whose side I took, someone was going to get hurt. Plus, I had a feeling this whole showdown had something to do with me, so keeping my mouth shut seemed like the safest bet. "What invoice?" Jace's voice cut through the air as he stepped in.
Chapter 217
What was a standoff between two just turned into a three-way standoff.
The tension spiked, and Demi squeezed my arm, whispering, "Keira..." her voice shaky.
Before she could say anything else, Jace zeroed in on her. "Ms. Young, why don't you fill me in?"
Demi stiffened, clutching my arm like a lifeline. "Umm."
"Just tell the truth," I urged, giving her a gentle nudge.
She shot me a nervous glance but finally stepped forward, giving a shaky yet straightforward rundown of what happened.
After she finished, Jace turned to Hayden. "You don't need to deal with this anymore. I'll take it up your boss."
with
Hayden didn't back down, his tone firm. "Right now, I'm the one in charge. If I say there's compensation, then there's gonna be compensation."
Jace's eyes narrowed, a mocking smile playing at his lips. "And if I say I'm in charge? Mr. Hart, are you planning to walk away from this job, or just quit?"
It was a trap. Jace was cornering Hayden, using his pride against him.
Hayden, being the straight-up, no-BS type, wasn't equipped for this kind of manipulative game-especially not against Jace, who was way more calculating, or Wayne, who had the same ruthless streak running through his veins.
Watching them gang up on Hayden like that, after all the late nights and hard work he'd put into this project, made my stomach turn. It felt like Jace was just setting him up to fail. It wasn't just unfair-it was straight-up bullying. I couldn't stay quiet anymore. I stepped forward, ready to speak up.
Chapter 218
Hayden's hand tightened around mine.
I glanced up at him, and for a split second, his soft gaze met mine before he turned back to Jace. His voice, low and steady, carried a weight that couldn't be ignored. "I'm not leaving until the final inspection's done."
That's just how he was. The more someone tried to push him out, the more determined he became to stay. Just like always.
I braced myself for whatever Jace would throw at him next, but then Hayden's grip tightened again, and he added. "This is something I promised Kiki."
The way he said "Kiki, claiming it was all for me, sent my heart racing. It didn't help that Jace's face went an alarming shade of red, and Wayne didn't look much better.
The silence hung in the air so thick, it felt like no one could even breathe.
I took a steadying breath and decided to cut through it, locking eyes with Jace and Wayne. "Even though
I'm no longer in charge and I've left the company, there's one rule I never forgot: the company's,ests
come first, above everything.
"No one should jeopardize those interests, no matter the reason.
It was a clear reminder to Wayne-if he wanted to protect someone, he had to be ready to face the fallout. Responsibility couldn't be avoided just because of a title.
Even in the past, royal figures weren't above the law. Running a company was no different: you lead by example or risk losing everything.
With that laid out, Wayne and Jace both knew I was speaking logically, but my loyalty was with Hayden. The tension between them thickened, their expressions darkening as they realized they had no real counter. The confrontation was finally hitting its breaking point.. Just then, Tanya came rushing in, clearly ready to take the fall.
She rushed over, not even caring about her pregnant belly. "I was the one who set this up. It's my responsibility."
Jace's face darkened even more, the veins in his temples about to burst.
He was this close to losing it, and I could feel the explosion building, like he was ready to throw down right here.
If it had been anyone else, they'd be in serious trouble, basically throwing themselves to the wolves. But this was Tanya-the woman Jace had thrown away ten years of our relationship for, the one he cut off his own family to protect.
I could already guess what he was about to say. With a mocking smirk, I started to turn and leave with Hayden. I had zero interest in whatever excuse Jace was about to throw out this time, and I definitely didn't want to see him shield Tanya from the fallout. But then Jace said something that made me stop cold
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"Ms. Twain, it's your responsibility," he said, his voice low but firm. "So you'll handle it. You'll cover the losses."
I stared at him, totally shocked. His face was set, hard and cold, like he'd made up his mind. Meanwhile, Tanya just stood there, frozen, her face draining from red to ghostly pale.
I didn't see that coming.
I never thought Jace would actually punish the woman he doted on so much.
As he walked away, Tanya started pulling herself together. She turned to Wayne, trying to salvage some dignity. "Wayne, I'll talk to the finance department about covering the damages."
"Good," Wayne replied, zero warmth in his voice. Then, twisting the knife a little deeper, he added, "And during work hours, it's Mr. Johnston."
Tanya's humiliation hit an all-time high, courtesy of the Johnston brothers. She didn't even glance my way, not that I cared to watch her squirm.
What was there to see? She'd already given me the ultimate humiliation when she stole my fiancé.
"Let's go," I said, signaling to Hayden.
"Mm," he replied quietly, still holding my hand as we walked away.
After a while, I glanced down at our hands, still intertwined. "You know, no one's around anymore." "I'm not holding your hand for anyone else's sake," he said, instantly picking up on what I meant. His comment was a subtle dig at how I'd used our earlier closeness as an act in front of Jace.
"Just because you're not doing it for show doesn't mean you can hold my hand whenever you want," I teased, pulling my hand free. I shot him a playful look. "Or do you go around holding other girls' hands this easily?"
He didn't miss a beat. "I don't. You're the only one I've ever held."
It was so simple... and kind of sweet.
Chapter 219 Chapter 219
I stared at him, my mind drifting to his dad-the Mr. Patterson I used to know when I was a kid. With the way Hayden was acting around me now, I couldn't help but blurt out, "So, Hayden, you flirting with me like this... does that mean you actually like me?" He didn't even flinch. "Why else? For fun?"
Straightforward. No shame. Just total confidence.
"Okay, but are you hiding something from me? Like... have we known each other longer than I think?" Ever since I found out about his dad, I had this weird feeling there was more to the story. you
His eyes flickered, just for a second. "When you were little, I used to give you piggyback rides. And... y kissed me."
Of course, he'd drop something like that, all casual. If were still the clueless girl I used to be, I'd probably be blushing hard right now.
"Oh yeah?" I shot back, not missing a beat. "And where exactly did I kiss you?"
Hayden stepped closer, closing the already tiny gap between us until there was almost no space left.
My heart skipped a beat-maybe two-but I didn't move
He looked down at me, easily a head taller, his breath warm against my skin. "How about I show you now?
I froze. Totally speechless.
In that moment, it hit me-Hayden wasn't just some quiet flirt. No, he was the master of it, pretending to be all innocent while dropping lines that could leave anyone flustered. And the worst part? He was really good at it. My face betrayed me, heating up before I could stop it i couldn't even make myself meet his eyes.
"In your dreams," I mumbled, and before he could say anything else, I turned and bolted.
Behind me, I heard Hayden chuckle softly, which pretty much confirmed it-he'd been teasing me on purpose.
Then, out of nowhere, this weird memory flashed in my mind. Those dreams I used to have as a kid... being on a boy's back, messing with him, calling him "Haddy." Walt. Could those dreams... have been real?
It sounded crazy, but I couldn't shake the feeling. I was way too young to remember clearly, and my parents-the only people who might know-weren't around anymore. Hayden was the only one who could fill in the blanks. He'd been older than me back then, so if it actually happened, he'd remember.
But there was no way I could just come out and ask him that. Not like this.
I was still running when Hayden easily caught up to me "The lights are all set for testing. Are you free tonight?"
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I knew he wanted me to check out the lighting effects once they were done, but my heart was still racing. from his teasing. So I decided to mess with him. "Nope, busy." "When will you be free, then?"
"I'm not sure, 1-"I was about to keep playing around when my phone buzzed.
It was Steve.
Remembering the favor I'd asked, I waved to Hayden and stepped away to take the call. "Steve?"
"Where are you?" Steve asked, sounding all casual.
"Out and about," I said, trying to get to the point. "Did you find out anything about what I asked?"
"Huh?" Steve sounded confused, and I almost rolled my eyes, thinking he'd totally flaked on me. But then he went, "Oh, you mean your boss' identity? Yeah, I've got something."
I let out a little snort. He was just messing with me. "I know I can count on you," I said, playing along.
"Of course. If you want the details, meet me at Luxe Emporium tonight at seven," Steve said.
My eyes flicked to Hayden.
Ugh. If I met Steve, I'd miss the lighting test with Hayden. And even though I'd told Hayden I was busy just to mess with him, I actually wanted to see those lights.
After a beat, I tried, "Can't you just tell me now, over the phone?"
"If you wanna know, come meet me," Steve cut in, then hung up before I could say anything else.
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didn't give me a choice. I knew what that meant.
I
I clutched my phone, glancing over at Hayden. As I walked up to him, about to speak, he beat me to it." I'm leaving the day after tomorrow." Leaving?
I froze, thrown off. "Where are you going?"
He kept walking. "Back."
Back? Back to Chiverton?
But he said he'd stay. He even rented an apartment here.
Thinking about the apartment reminded me of the demolition notice and Ms. Brown's request. I hadn't even mentioned it to Hayden yet.
I wanted to ask why he was suddenly leaving, but the distance between us made me hesitate. So instead, I just said, "I'll come by tomorrow night to check out the lights."
Hayden looked at me. It was like his eyes were saying. You might have time, but I don't."
I thought he'd tell me no, but after a few seconds, he just said, "Okay."
I knew he was forcing himself. He was upset, but he didn't want to make things harder for me.
Once again, he was the one compromising. And that's when the guilt hit me.
I was totally taking advantage of his feelings, messing with him like this.
They always say the person who cares more is the one who ends up hurt. It was the same when I was with Jace-I was always the one getting hurt.
All those old heartbreaks came flooding back. I'd been through enough of that, and now I was doing the same thing to Hayden.
"Hayden," I said softly. "I'm meeting Steve tonight because I asked him to help me with something. I have to go
His eyes darkened a bit, but all I got was a low, "Mm-hmm."
"Tomorrow night, you can cook for me, and we'll watch the lights together," I said, trying to sound playful, hoping to lighten the mood.
Hayden's mouth twitched, but he shot back, "Keira, I'm not a kid. You can't just slap me and then think everything's cool with a piece of candy." I pouted. "Oh."
He frowned a little, so I leaned closer and teased, "Well, if candy won't work, what will, babe?"
The second I said "babe," his whole body stiffened. His ears went red, and he started looking around like he didn't know where to put his eyes.
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I had only meant to mess with him, but I didn't expect calling him "babe" would throw him off so much.
Seeing Hayden-normally all cool and collected-get so flustered over one word was kinda satisfying.
Just when I thought he might say or do something, he spoke in a low voice. "You reject me, avoid me, but then tease me. Are you messing with me on purpose? Just keeping me on the hook?"
His tone was serious, and there was this hint of hurt in his eyes, like I'd actually done some damage. Guilt twisted in my chest. I swallowed hard and, instead of answering, I just said, "See you tomorrow. Then I spun around and walked off fast, only letting out the breath I was holding once I was out of sight. Walking back, I couldn't shake the feeling that I'd gone too far.
But in that moment, I'd just wanted to mess with him.
I didn't want to be with him like that, but I also couldn't stop myself from provoking him, watching him get all flustered over me. It made zero sense, even to me.
The more I thought about it, the more I realized how selfish and mean I was being. Regret hit me hard-1 should've known when to stop.
The guilt gnawed at me so much that I shook my head in disbelief, even wanting to slap myself for being so reckless.
I was still lost in my thoughts when I heard Tanya's voice call out from up ahead. "Keira."
I looked up and saw her standing there, not too far away. From the look on her face, it was pretty obvious she'd seen the whole thing. Great. This couldn't get more awkward.