Ch. 371..380
Chapter 371
"Take the main seats," Ron waved for Hayden and me to sit down.
He didn't look anything like our deputy CEO right now. More like a guy trying way too hard to be laid-back.
Honestly, if it weren't for the fact that I knew Hayden was the real power behind the company, I doubt Ron would be this chummy. "Mr. Shane," I started, raising an eyebrow, "You're the boss. We're just employees. Isn't this a bit... much?"
Ron paused, glancing at Hayden before giving this easy smile. "What's wrong with being friendly? We're colleagues, like family."
I let out a short laugh. "Yeah, but you're still the boss. Treating us like this makes things feel kinda weird."
"Mr. Shane, really, you don't have to be so polite. We won't be able to enjoy the meal like this," Hayden
added.
Ron waved him off like it was nothing. "Don't overthink it. That's just my style-no formalities, no drama. Right, Mr. Hart?"
"Maybe too informal," Hayden replied, keeping it short like usual.
It was funny, the contrast between them. Ron was playing it so casual, and Hayden, as always, had this bossy vibe-even though Ron was supposed to be in charge.
Ron chuckled, but then his phone buzzed on the table. He checked it and stood up. "Excuse me. I need to grab someone."
I blinked. "Wait-did you invite someone else?"
"Yep. Someone you've been wanting to meet." Ron winked at me.
The way he did it was definitely not subtle, sending a jolt through me.
Before I could even process that, Hayden cleared his throat. "You alright there, Mr. Shane? Need some eye drops?"
I had to bite my lip to keep from laughing.
Ron caught the drift, shaking his head with a smile. "No need to get territorial."
Hayden didn't flinch. "When it comes to my girl, I'm not exactly generous.
Ron sighed dramatically and gave him a thumbs-up before walking out.
As soon as the door closed, I turned to Hayden. "So, we're just here for dinner with some mystery guest?"
"Yeah. And when the food comes, you can have whatever you like," Hayden said, like this whole thing was super casual, then poured me a glass of water-in a wine glass.
I wrinkled my nose. "Why water?"
"You're still recovering. No alcohol," he said, like it was a done deal.
I pouted. "And if I really want a drink?"
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I wasn't even serious; I just wanted to see how far I could push him.
He hesitated for a second, then sighed. "Fine. A little, just to taste."
I burst out laughing.
Hayden, looking puzzled, asked, "What's so funny?"
"You don't want me drinking, so why pretend to give in?"
He pressed his lips together, stood up, and walked behind me. Leaning down, he picked up the glass he poured and placed it in front of me. His arm brushed mine as his lips hovered close to my ear. "Because I don't want you upset." Okay, his breath on my ear was way too warm, and those words? Right in the feels.
It had been a long time since someone treated me like this, spoiled me without hesitation.
I reached up, hooked my arm around his neck, and pulled him down for a soft kiss.
Hayden stayed still at first, so I deepened it, teasing him a bit.
And of course, just as I was really getting into it, the door to the private room flew open-
GET IT NOW
Chapter 372 "Ouch!"
Ron quickly turned his head away, covering his eyes with his hand, like we'd blinded him or something.
Hayden straightened up, totally unbothered. "What? Never seen two people in love before?"
Ron lowered his hand. "Oh, I've seen it. Just never quite... this type of PDA."
Then he turned to me. "Ms. Kay, you really do live up to your job in marketing-always coming up with something fresh."
I just blinked, completely speechless.
"And why are you still standing there? Maybe you're good, but your guest is tired just watching," Hayden threw out, his deadpan shutting Ron up instantly.
Ron slapped his forehead like it had all been a big mistake. "Look at me! You two flustered me so much, I almost forgot about the main event."
He stepped to the side, making a sweeping gesture toward the door. "Boss, please."
Wait, boss?!
I froze as this short, round man waddled into the room, looking like he was about seven months pregnant.
I had no clue who this guy was, so I instinctively glanced at Hayden.
He was already seated, casually rubbing his lips with his fingers. I noticed a faint smudge of my lipstick on his fingertips.
"Boss, right here!" Ron rushed over, eagerly pulling out the chair at the head of the table.
That's when it hit me-Ron's whole "someone you've been wanting to meet" thing.
Before I could fully wrap my head around it, Ron was already doing the intros. "Boss, these are our company's star team. Chief Engineer Hayden Hart, and Director of Marketing, Keira Kay."
He turned to us with a grin. "And this is our big boss, Kylian Hart."
This was the big boss?!
The one I'd been curious about for ages?
He looked nothing like what I imagined.
And he has the last name Hart? Hold up-so, is this guy the investor? Not Hayden?
"Mr. Hart," Hayden greeted him, sounding all formal and polite.
Meanwhile, I just stood there like I'd been hit with a truck, my mind reeling.
Ron's voice snapped me out of it. "Ms. Kay, don't just stand there gawking at our boss's stunning good looks-say hi!"
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I quickly composed myself, standing up and giving the guy-who looked thirty in the face but fifty in the body-a polite nod. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Hart."
"I know who you are. Please, sit," he said with an easygoing smile.
Okay, so he definitely had that warm, laid-back vibe I'd heard about, but I still couldn't shake the weird feeling in my gut. Ever since I found out the company's investor had the last name Hart, I'd been convinced Hayden was the big boss. But now? My theory had just blown up in my face. Something about this still felt off.
Instead of sitting down, I stood up. "Sorry, I need to make a quick call."
As I passed Ron, I whispered, "Mr. Shane, can we talk outside for a second?"
"Of course, beauty. Whenever you need me," Ron said, flashing Hayden a smirk. "Hayden, keep the boss company. You two might find out you're long-lost relatives."
Once we were outside, Ron turned to me with a huge grin. "So, what's up? Want the inside scoop on the boss?"
"Yeah."
Ron's grin got even bigger. "What do you want to know? Is he single? Looking?"
I didn't bother with his teasing. "Is he really the boss?"
Ron let out a laugh. "Why? Doesn't he seem like it?"
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"No, he doesn't."
"Honestly, I don't think he looks much like a big boss either," Ron puffed out his chest, standing taller like he was comparing himself. "I mean, come on, look at me. In terms of body and presence, how could he ever compete with this?"
I rolled my eyes. "But, like, he's the one who invested all the money to start the company, right?"
"Yup, he's the real majority shareholder," Ron said. "Me?" He chuckled, "I may look like I run things, but I'm just another glorified employee-same as you and Hayden."
His easy, playful tone actually made him seem pretty down-to-earth.
"Then why doesn't he run the company himself?" I asked, still not totally getting it.
Ron scoffed. "What, are you dense? The guy's loaded. He owns a bunch of companies. Who has the time to micromanage all of them?"
I glanced back at the private room door, still trying to wrap my head around the fact that the short, stocky guy inside was some rich business mogul.
I'd spent years around the upper crust with the Johnstons, so I knew the big players. But I'd never heard of anyone with the last name Hart being this powerful.
"You don't believe me, do you?" Ron saw right through me. "You just haven't been around long enough, that's all."
I stayed quiet.
"Our boss is the grandson of Chadwick Hart, one of the old coal barons from West Ridge," Ron continued "He might look older than he is, but he's just over thirty. With the coal business slowing down, the Hart family started branching out. Kylian might not look like much, but he's got brains." Ron tapped his temple for emphasis.
It was all starting to make sense now.
Still, I couldn't help but tease, "West Ridge folks moving in on Seavora, huh? Guess they've really got their fingers in everything."
"Wherever there's money to be made, they're on it. And our boss? He's got investments overseas too," Ron added with a shake of his head. "Bet you didn't see that coming."
"Definitely not," I muttered, biting my lip. "Didn't expect our big boss to be someone else entirely. I thought..."
"Thought what?" Ron asked, grinning.
I thought of Hayden's humble background and decided to keep my suspicions to myself.
Both named Hart, but in terms of looks and smarts? Hayden outshined Kylian by a mile. But when it came to the money? Kylian had the edge, no question.
"Nothing. Let's get back inside before we get fired for making the big boss wait," I joked, and then walked
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back into the private room.
Ron stopped me. "Ms. Kay, you didn't think Hayden was...?"
"No," I cut him off with a quick smile. "Hayden is just Hayden."
"Hayden's a stock that's bound to rise," Ron tossed out before we headed back into the room.
As I opened the door, I noticed both Hayden and Kylian sitting in silence, staring at each other like they'd just had some intense face-off.
My heart skipped a beat. Had something gone wrong between them already? They barely knew each other!
Sensing the tension, I quickly apologized to Kylian. "Sorry for the interruption."
"No worries, take a seat," Kylian said in his usual laid-back tone. For a supposed secret billionaire, he sure didn't act the part.
2
Ron strolled in behind me, all blunt honesty as always. I gave Ms. Kay a little rundown about you, boss."
I froze.
Seriously? Was he really just going to spill that I'd been asking about Kylian?
Before I could glare at him, Ron was already laughing, explaining to Kylian, "You have no idea how long Ms. Kay has been dying to know more about you. She's been grilling me for ages, just desperate for a glimpse of your brilliance." I was speechless.
"Really?" Hayden's voice cut in, and just those two words sent a chill down my spine.
Ron laughed nervously. "Yep! If you don't believe me, you can ask her yourself."
I wanted to throttle him right there. He seriously had zero tact.
"Let's get the food started. Keira's been starving," Hayden smoothly changed the subject.
Ron shot a glance at Kylian, who gave a small nod, and Ron pressed the button to call for the waitstaff.
That little exchange pretty much sealed it-Kylian was definitely the big boss. But one question still nagged at me.
Why was Ron more deferential to Hayden than Kylian? Like, even though Kylian was the big boss, Ron seemed to treat Hayden with a whole different level of respect.
As I nibbled at my food, I couldn't stop thinking about it. Something about this whole situation still didn't quite add up.
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The dinner ended smoothly, with Kylian showing none of the arrogance you'd expect from a big boss. He was laid-back, almost too casual for someone with his status.
Hayden, though, stayed mostly quiet the whole meal. Besides offering me food and checking if I needed water, he barely said a word. His cool, distant vibe made it seem like he was the one in charge.
Once the meal wrapped up, Kylian left in his understated Maybach, and Ron, a little tipsy from the drinks, booked a sober driver service.
While waiting, Ron slung an arm over Hayden's shoulder. "So, Hayden, what do you think? Everything go smoothly tonight?"
Hayden brushed his arm off with a calm look. "You've had too much to drink."
"I'm not that drunk," Ron laughed, lifting his hand to clap Hayden on the shoulder again. "I know you're worried I'll say something dumb, but I got it under control."
This time, Hayden caught Ron by the wrist, stopping him. "I don't like people touching my shoulders. And you probably shouldn't do it to anyone else either. In feng shui, it's said that your fortune rests on your _shoulders. You don't want to go slapping away someone's good luck, right?"
I nearly burst out laughing. Hayden, caring about feng shui? Who knew?
Ron blinked, stunned for a second before chuckling. "When did you get all superstitious? You sound like
an old man."
"Your ride's here," Hayden cut him off, just as the driver pulled up.
Hayden wasted no time directing the driver toward Ron. "It's his car. Take him."
Then, wrapping an arm around my shoulders, Hayden turned to me. "Let's go."
"Hey, I wasn't finished! Where are you two going?" Ron called out, but Hayden didn't look back.
As we reached the car, I stayed quiet.
"What's on your mind?" Hayden asked, picking up on my mood.
Leaning against the car, I looked up at him. "Do you really think Kylian Hart seems like our company's big boss?"
Hayden frowned a little. "You don't think so?"
"No, I think you seem more like the boss," I said, locking eyes with him.
"I thought so too," Hayden replied, his tone casual. Then, with a slight smile, he added, "But you know, looks can be deceiving."
I laughed softly, raising my hand to touch his face. "You do have that whole 'romance novel CEO' look going on. But you're not."
"Are you disappointed? Or do you wish I was?" Hayden asked, his eyes searching mine.
I shook my head. "No, don't overthink it. I like you just the way you are-no crazy rich family, just simple
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and handsome. You make me feel... safe."
Even though I hadn't touched a drop of alcohol, my emotions felt tipsy, like I'd had too much to drink.
Hayden's voice softened. "And if I came into money one day? Would you still feel safe?"
I squinted at him, teasing. "Planning to come into money soon?"
He didn't answer, and I thought about how hard it had been for him to afford Yuna's surgery. Wanting to comfort him, I said, "Security isn't about money, you know." After that, I pulled my hand back. "Let's go."
But before I could move, Hayden caught my hand and pressed it gently back onto the car, leaning in closer.
He'd had a drink tonight, and I could smell the faint scent of alcohol mixing with the night breeze. It made the air between us feel charged, like something electric was building.
My fingers gripped the edge of the car door as my heart raced. "Hayden, what are you doing?"
His eyes locked onto my lips, and I could see what he was thinking-he wanted another taste of the kiss I'd given him earlier.
I glanced at his lips too. The lipstick I'd left on him earlier was long gone, but I couldn't help but tease him. "You know, lipstick kinda suits you." "Hmm."
I laughed. "You always say 'hmm.' What does that even mean?"
"It means I want you to put it on me again," Hayden murmured, his nose brushing against mine.
"Only I get to put it on you?" My hand slid up to rest on his throat.
"Hmm."
I ran my fingers over his Adam's apple. "What if I want to put it here? Is that okay?"
"You've already done that before," Hayden reminded me, referring to the time I'd left a love bite on his neck, marking him.
"Wanna do it again?" he asked softly when I didn't respond.
I didn't answer with words. Instead, I leaned in and bit down gently on his neck.
Hayden let out a low groan, and before I knew it, he had lifted me up, pressing me against the car door.
The night air was cool, the car behind me cold to the touch, but Hayden's body? That was burning.
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All of a sudden, it felt like every cell in my body lit up, a desire spreading through me that I couldn't quite put into words...
This overwhelming feeling left me feeling a little ashamed, like I wasn't being a "good" girl.
I had never felt this with Jace. Even when we were together, undressed and close, it was just nerves. There was never this deep, raw hunger-this fire.
But with Hayden? It was like something had been unleashed inside me, something I didn't even know existed.
I couldn't wait any longer. I reached for his lips, but he pulled back, teasing me. Frustrated, I wrapped my arms around his neck, my voice a breathy whisper, "Hayden..."
My voice sounded desperate, needy, like someone I didn't even recognize.
I never sounded like this before. It shocked me, but I couldn't stop. This burning desire was too strong to ignore, and with Hayden, I didn't want to hold back. With him, I felt free to be exactly who I was, no pretending. "Hayden..." I whispered again, kissing him anywhere I could-his cheek, his jaw-my lips hungry for him.
His hand gripped the back of my neck, his breath hot and uneven. "Kiki, wait... let's go home," he rasped,
his voice thick with restraint.
But I didn't want to wait.
The need I felt was intense, fleeting-if we waited, it might slip away. I knew we were outside, in a parking lot, and anyone could see us. My mind told me to be rational, but my body wanted more.
Still, reason fought its way through. I funneled my frustration into a hard kiss on his neck, sucking his skin, marking him. I stayed pressed against him, my chest heaving.
He didn't move either, just tightened his hold on my waist, pulling me so close it felt like we were merging into one.
We stayed like that for a while, the tension between us still simmering. Finally, he loosened his grip, opened the car door, and gently slid me inside.
Now that the heat had cooled, all I felt was weakness and a strange kind of shame. I couldn't even meet his eyes.
This must be why people prefer the lights off-it hides the awkwardness, the raw vulnerability.
Tcurled up in the seat and closed my eyes, trying to steady myself. Just as I was about to drive off,
Hayden leaned over and kissed my forehead softly. "That was my fault."
A wave of confusion hit me. "What do you mean?"
Then he added, "I shouldn't have gotten you all worked up."
Wait, was he serious right now?
Wasn't I already embarrassed enough?
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I shoved him lightly. "Stop talking, you're distracting me."
"Alright, I'll make it quick," he teased, his laugh deep and soft, making my face flush again.
I swatted him, flustered. "That's not what I meant!"
He grinned, clearly enjoying himself. "Then what did you mean?"
I had no comeback.
"Hayden, I've realized something-you're really good at pretending," I muttered, pressing the gas pedal a little too hard.
As the car moved, I heard him murmur, "Some things are just in your nature, Kiki. It's in the bones." His words sent a shiver down my spine. I thought of what Lena once said-that everyone shows their truest, most primal side in bed, no matter how proper they seem. Was Hayden saying that to comfort me? To make me feel less embarrassed?
It didn't matter. I wasn't going to reply.
We pulled up to the apartment complex, and it was pitch black-no streetlights, no windows lit. The place felt completely deserted, like it had already been abandoned. Most of the residents had moved out since the building was about to be demolished, leaving it eerily quiet. As I sat there, lost in thought, Hayden got out of the car and walked around to my side, opening the door. Before I could step out, he scooped me up effortlessly.
"1-"
He cut me off, his tone playful. "I didn't want you to trip. Your legs might be a little weak."
I smacked his chest lightly but didn't resist as he carried me toward the building.
The quiet emptiness around us felt almost eerie, and a hint of melancholy settled over me. Resting my head against Hayden's shoulder, I glanced around-and then I saw it. A familiar car.
My grip on him tightened. "Wait a second..."
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Hayden didn't ask any questions and stopped immediately.
But I added, "It's fine. Let's go upstairs.
In the darkness, I lowered my head, and the image of the person by the car flashed before my eyes.
I didn't expect Jace to find me here-this apartment's about to be demolished. But somehow, he knew. And he came anyway.
What's the point of showing up now?
Hayden's strides were long, his pace quick, taking two steps at a time.
"Open the door," he said, slightly out of breath.
I fumbled with the keys and opened the door. The second we stepped inside, Hayden lifted me onto the shoe cabinet, his eyes locked on mine.
In the dark, his gaze was intense, like the ocean at night-deep, dangerous, as if it could pull me under.
I swallowed, trying to say something, but before I could, his lips were on mine.
"Kiki, you can have it however you want now," Hayden muttered, shrugging off his jacket, fingers tugging at his collar.
Earlier, by the car, I had been the one craving him, desperate for his touch. But now... now it was him.
Except... that spark I'd felt earlier-it was gone. The urgency had slipped away, and I knew it wouldn't come back. Not tonight.
But Hayden... he was still there, still wrapped up in that need, just as I had been before.
Maybe he sensed the shift in me. He stopped, resting his head against my neck, his breathing heavy,
tense.
Neither of us spoke. We just stayed like that, frozen in place.
After a long moment, his breathing slowed, and he lifted his head from my neck.
I reached for him, my hand resting on his chest. "Hayden..."
He looked down at me, and my heart skipped a beat.
Had he seen Jace downstairs? Was he reading too much into my silence?
"I... my period hasn't ended yet," I whispered.
"Mm." That was all he said.
It was the kind of answer I'd heard from him before, but this time, it felt... cold. Disappointed.
"Please don't overthink it," I tried to explain.
"I'm not," he replied, his voice soft but firm as he gently squeezed my hand. "You're the one overthinking." "Shower, then sleep," Hayden said, lifting me off the cabinet and carrying me toward the bathroom.
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He was always like this-so patient, so steady. No matter how I acted or how things went, he never got
angry.
That side of him made me feel guilty. Just as he was about to leave the bathroom, I grabbed him, pulling him back toward me, standing on my toes to kiss him again.
Hayden's hand pressed firmly on my waist, grounding me. "Kiki, do you think I'm easy to push around?"
I froze, caught off guard by his words.
Hayden looked down at me, frustration flickering in his eyes. "You take advantage of the fact that I can't be harsh with you-that I won't scold or push you. And so, you keep pushing me." This six-foot-two man, standing there with that look of quiet frustration, sounded almost like a child who'd been holding in his feelings for too long.
I didn't know what to say, My mouth opened, but no words came out.
He slowly released my hand and walked out of the bathroom.
I stood there, feeling like a child who had messed up and had no idea how to fix it.
I didn't take a shower. Instead, I stood there for what felt like forever before pushing the bathroom door open and running out. "Hayden..."
He had just reached the door, his hand on the knob, and turned back to look at me.
My lips trembled. "I'm sor-"
Before I could finish, he interrupted, his voice calm. "I'm not leaving. I'm just going to my room to grab something. I'll be right back."
As soon as he said that, tears welled up in my eyes. One by one, they spilled over, and then suddenly, it became a steady stream.
I didn't even know why I was crying. I was the one who had teased him, who had lit that spark between us -only to leave him hanging.
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Even though I knew he was right, and I was totally at fault, why did I feel so wronged crying like that? Hayden turned back and saw me in full meltdown mode. He sighed and pulled me into his arms. "It's my fault. I said something too harsh... I won't do that again The more he comforted me, the worse I felt.
I raised my hand and smacked his chest. "You're not wrong! Why are you blaming yourself? It's clearly my fault."
"No, you did nothing wrong. It's me... I let my stupid thoughts take over, and I wasn't satisfied, so I said something dumb," Hayden replied, taking all the blame like it was his job.
That only made me feel more guilty, so I kept hitting him-lightly, of course. But still, I kept at it. Finally, frustrated, I bit him.
"Ow, that hurts," Hayden whispered.
It was the first time I'd ever heard him admit pain.
I let go, staring at him through tear-filled eyes. He gently wiped away my tears. "You've bitten me now, so no more crying, okay? If your eyes get all swollen tomorrow, you won't look pretty." "It's your fault," I pouted, blaming him again.
"Mm, it's my fault," he repeated, still gently brushing away the tears.
But the truth? He wasn't at fault at all.
I hugged him, my face buried in his chest. "I've been so spoiled by you."
"Exactly, my bad. And then I had the nerve to scold you I deserve punishment. Want to bite me again?" he teased.
I smacked him lightly, and he pulled me closer.
Our little argument felt huge at the time, but it only lasted, like, five minutes. After all the crying and fussing, there was still a bit of awkwardness in the air.
So, I gave myself an easy out. "I want some milk."
"Alright, I'll warm some up for you. You go take a shower first," Hayden said, gently nudging me toward the bathroom and closing the door behind me.
"Hayden, it was my fault. I'll be better, okay?" I admitted through the door, feeling guilty.
"You're never wrong," he called back as he walked away.
Hearing that, I stared at myself in the mirror, tears welling up again.
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"Keira, get it together," I told myself as I stared at my reflection.
When I finished my shower and stepped out, Hayden had already warmed the milk. He was lounging on the couch in his comfy clothes, tapping away on his laptop.
As soon as I walked over, he set his laptop aside and took the towel from my hand to dry my hair.
I sipped the warm milk, my mind drifting back to dinner. "Hayden, do you know I've been mad at you the last couple of days?"
"Why?" he asked, his hands gently massaging my scalp as he dried my hair. It felt so good.
"I was mad because you lied to me. You didn't tell me the truth."
"Hm?" He sounded genuinely confused.
I bit the rim of the cup. "I thought you were the big boss behind Ron. I thought you were keeping your identity secret from me."
"Why'd you think that?" Hayden asked, clearly amused.
I thought back to overhearing his phone call with Ron in the stairwell. There was also that other call. If I mentioned it, he'd probably figure everything out.
"Because your last name is Hart, and Ron was, like, totally trying to impress you. It made me suspicious," I explained.
"Now that you know it wasn't me, you're not mad anymore, right? Good." Hayden shrugged, totally chill, like it was no big deal.
"Hayden," I said again, a little smile tugging at my lips. Just like at dinner, I hooked my arms around his neck and pulled him down for a kiss-sweet with the taste of milk. But this time, Hayden didn't hold back. He grabbed me, deepening the kiss.
As things started heating up, right when it felt like it was about to go there, my phone rang.
It was Lena.
With Yuna still in the hospital, I couldn't ignore the call, pulled away, breathing hard, and answered." Lena? Wait, what? Say that again?"
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"Yuna can have the surgery-within the next couple of days!" Lena's voice practically burst out of the speakerphone. Hayden immediately turned to me, and I nodded, my heart pounding with the good news.
"They found a donor heart?" Hayden asked.
There was a pause before Lena's teasing voice chimed in, "What are you still doing at Keira's this late, huh?"
I rolled my eyes. Seriously? Now was not the time for jokes. "Focus, Lena. Update. Now."
Lena chuckled but got back on track. "It's not a new donor. The family of the previous donor changed their mind again."
"What did Professor Neumann say?" Hayden asked.
"He said Yuna's tests all came back perfect. So as long as nothing pops up-like a cold or infection-she can have the surgery in three days," Lena replied, sounding hopeful. She must've already spoken with Nate. Hayden and I exchanged a look of excitement, both of us buzzing with nervous energy. I squeezed his hand as he asked, "Is there anything else we need to do?"
"Not really... except, oh wait, yes-make sure you've got the surgery fee ready."
I glanced at Hayden and quickly jumped in, "Don't worry, we've got it covered. The hospital won't have anything to complain about."
"Okay then, I'll leave you two lovebirds to it," Lena said, sounding like she was about to hang up. But then she added, "Oh, and Hayden, Keira's on her period, so no funny business."
We were taken aback.
While we were thrilled about Yuna's surgery, we were also nervous-after all, any surgery comes with risks.
That night, neither of us slept well.
Before dawn, I heard Hayden moving around. Soon enough, sounds from the kitchen confirmed he was already up, probably making breakfast.
If I had to guess, it'd include something for Yuna too.
I sat up in bed, staring out the window for a bit before grabbing my phone. As I scrolled through social media, I noticed Cedric-the police officer whose friend request I'd accepted yesterday-still hadn't sent me a message. So, why'd he add me? Just to boost his friend count? Ugh, how pointless,
I stared at his profile pic for a second before moving on to my feed. That's when I saw an update from Steve-he was at some fancy pool training facility. I liked the post and commented: [I want tickets.]
Not sure how, but Hayden must've sensed I was awake He came into the room, holding a glass of water.
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He handed it to me. "I made pearl barley soup. Let's bring it to the hospital for Yuna's breakfast. Sound good?"
I smiled. "I knew you were gonna do that. Of course, it's fine."
Hayden reached out, gently fixing a few strands of my messy hair. "You and I are getting more and more in sync.
"I really believe Yuna's going to be okay. Nate wouldn't approve the surgery if he wasn't confident," I said, trying to reassure both of us.
Hayden nodded, brushing his hand across my cheek. "Finish your water and get ready. I'll go pack. breakfast."
As I sipped the water, I wandered over to the window and noticed something I hadn't seen last night-a few scattered cigarette butts on the ground below.
They were from Jace. He had been here.
He found this place... but didn't come to see me. Probably because he saw me with Hayden.
Hayden and I headed to the hospital early, and it was pretty quiet when we arrived. Not a lot of people around yet.
But as soon as we pulled up, I spotted someone familiar. Wade was standing by the hospital entrance, staring up at the sky. He wasn't moving, just standing there like he was frozen in place. For some reason, I felt a pang of sadness seeing him like that..
"Stop for a second," I said to Hayden.
He slowed the car, and I pointed toward Wade. "Look at him."
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Hayden glanced over and asked, "Do you want to go over?"
I shook my head gently. This wasn't a moment where Wade needed someone else. He needed to be alone with his thoughts.
Hayden didn't push it. After a few seconds, I turned my gaze back and said softly,
"Let's go."
As the car pulled away, I caught one last glimpse of Wade in the rearview mirror. He was still standing there, staring up at the sky like he was trying to find some kind of answer in it. His grief felt almost like a physical weight, pressing down on everything around him. Even when we reached Yuna's room, my mind was still stuck on what I'd seen.
Hayden didn't say anything, but as we walked in, he slipped his hand into mine, his fingers lacing with mine. That simple gesture said it all.
I smiled up at him. "Don't worry, I won't let it affect Yuna
"I just don't want it to ruin your appetite," he teased, squeezing my hand. "Everyone has their own burdens. Only they can carry them." "Mm." I nodded, and we pushed open the door to Yuna's room
Yuna was sitting on her bed, reading a book. The moment she saw us, she tossed it aside and practically bounced over. "Hayden! Keira!" She was so full of energy now, a far cry from the quiet girl we met at that retreat. She was like a bird who'd finally been let out of its cage. "You're here early! Did you bring food?" she asked, her eyes glued to the container in Hayden's hand
""We
didn't bring food just for you. We're eating together," I teased, watching her face light up.
She leaned her head on my shoulder, a mischievous grin on her lips. "In that case, I bet I can eat an extra meat bun."
"There are no buns," Hayden said, tapping her lightly on the forehead. "You need to stick to a light diet. No greasy food."
Yuna pouted dramatically. "Ugh, I'm practically turning into a rabbit with all this healthy food. I want meat."
Hayden set the container down, raising an eyebrow. "At best, you'll turn into a fluffy bunny."
"Keira, look at him!" Yuna whined, trying to get me on her side.
I smiled, patting her head. "Don't worry, after your surgery, Hayden's going to cook you three meals a day- with meat."
Yuna's eyes went wide. "Wait... surgery? In three days?
We hadn't told her earlier, wanting to make sure everything was set before overwhelming her with the
news.
"It's back on," I said, holding her hand and looking into her hopeful eyes. "But these next three days, you
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have to be extra careful. No colds, no greasy food. Just hang in there a little longer, okay?"
Yuna turned to Hayden, and when he nodded, she broke into a huge smile-right before bursting into tears.
"You guys are so mean," she sobbed, hugging me tightly. "You knew and didn't tell me right away!"
I laughed, hugging her back. "We're awful, I know. Keeping secrets from our little cutie."
After breakfast, I decided to go find Lena, but the image of Wade on those hospital steps kept playing in my mind. Something about it gnawed at me, and I couldn't shake the unease.
On impulse, I changed direction and headed to Narelle's room instead.
This time, it was completely different from my last visit. The room was filled with people-more arriving every minute. I stood quietly at the door, watching as tears were wiped away and hushed conversations filled the air.
Wade was there too, standing completely still. He hadn't said a word, but his eyes were locked on Narelle, lying motionless in the bed. It was like his whole world had narrowed down to just her.
If I hadn't figured it out by now-that Wade was in love with Narelle-then all the relationships I've had might as well have been for nothing.
"Leave," a middle-aged woman suddenly snapped.
Wade didn't react, just kept staring at Narelle like he hadn't heard a thing.
"Wade Smith," she repeated, louder this time. "Leave."
Finally, Wade spoke, his voice calm but heavy with emotion. "Are you really going to do this to her?"
Silence. No one responded.
Wade turned to a man nearby, his expression tense. "Mr. Yule, are you really going to do this to her?" Mr. Yule... that must be Narelle's dad.
Chapter 380 Chapter 380
But what did Wade mean by "do this to her? Was he talking about... giving up on Narelle?
I stood frozen by the doorway, watching as Wade's face tightened with strain. His fists were clenched, hanging stiffly by his sides, his complexion pale, almost ghostly. "Are you deaf? I told you to leave! Leave!" the middle-aged woman cried out, her voice rising as she
shoved him.
Wade stumbled slightly but steadied himself. "At least let me stay with her until the end. Please."
"It's your fault! If it wasn't for you, she wouldn't be like this!" the woman screamed, pounding weakly on his chest. "Give me back my Narelle! Give me back my daughter!" So she was Narelle's mom, Mrs. Yule.
Watching this, my heart ached. I wanted to step in, say something, do anything to help.
Before I could move, Mr. Yule walked over and gently pulled her away. "Stop. Let Narelle have some
peace."
"Narelle... my Narelle..." Mrs. Yule's sobs grew louder, her body trembling in her husband's arms.
Mr. Yule led her out of the room, and I was so caught up in the scene that I forgot to step aside. When they came face-to-face with me, I quickly realized my mistake.
1
"Uh, hi..." I greeted awkwardly.
"Narelle... my Narelle..." Mrs. Yule's eyes widened, and suddenly, she grabbed hold of me, her grip
surprisingly tight.
I knew I resembled Narelle, but I hadn't expected this reaction, Grief can do strange things, and right now,
it was like she thought I was her.
Mr. Yule, more composed, gently pulled her back, though his gaze stayed locked on me, startled. "You... who are you?"
"My name is Keira Kay," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Keira Kay?" Mrs. Yule repeated, shaking her head before turning to her husband. "Honey, this... this is..."
"She isn't Narelle," Mr. Yule said gently, his voice soft like he was trying to convince both her and himself. She just looks like her."
Mrs. Yule's eyes darted between me and the room behind her. Slowly, she let go of my hand, her face crumpling as she whispered, "She isn't Narelle. Narelle is gone." Hearing her say that hit me like a punch to the chest.
"Why do you look so much like my daughter?" Narelle's mom demanded, her voice sharp, her grief turning into something angrier.
How would I know?
"Are you doing this on purpose? Trying to trick us by looking like my daughter? she accused, her voice
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trembling with emotion.
Mr. Yule quickly stepped in, his voice calming. "You're seeing things because you miss Narelle too much. Miss Kay doesn't look like her at all."
"Yes, Narelle was so much more beautiful," Mrs. Yule muttered, casting one last glance at me before turning away.
I lowered my head slightly, avoiding her gaze as Mr. Yule coaxed her down the hall.
"I want Narelle..." she cried, her voice growing softer as they walked away, her fists weakly hitting her husband's chest.
Mr. Yule didn't react, just took it quietly, though he looked back at me once more, his eyes lingering, clearly unsettled by the resemblance.
Inside Narelle's room, her other relatives were gathered around her bed. They were so close to her that Wade couldn't get near, though he stayed standing at the edge of the room, eyes locked on her, not moving.
I thought about going in, but something told me it wasn't the right time. And even if Wade did come out, what would I say? How could I possibly comfort him in a situation like this?
Still... I couldn't shake the question running through my mind.
What did Wade mean when he asked if they were "going to do this to her"?