“What’s that supposed to mean?” Colleen’s laughter came through the phone. “Long-distance charges add up, you know. You’re tight on cash, so I’m just trying to save you a little.”

“Yeah.” A gentle smile crossed Hadley’s face. “I get it, Colleen. Thanks for that, and for the job referral.”

“You got the job?”

After a brief pause, Colleen exclaimed joyfully, “I knew they’d hire you. Don’t stress. I’m taking care of things here in Blathe for you.”

Given the expense of long-distance calls, they quickly exchanged a few crucial updates and then said their goodbyes.

Now, Hadley’s priority was to secure a new apartment.

She checked out various listings, yet nothing seemed suitable. The affordable ones were in questionable neighborhoods with poor security, while the nicer ones were way beyond her budget.

As she prepared to move on to another viewing, her phone buzzed.

Nyla was calling.

Hadley responded quickly, “Nyla?”

“Hadley, where are you right now?”

Surveying the bustling streets and the flow of traffic, Hadley replied casually,

“Oh, just taking a stroll. Srixby has undergone quite the transformation.”

“That’s true.” Nyla’s laughter filled the line. “Take your time to get reacquainted with the city. No need to hurry.”

The conversation then took a turn as Nyla broached the main topic of her call.

“It’s been four years since you left Srixby. I’m thinking we should have a little welcome-back party for you.”

“A party?”

𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓬𝓴 𝓬𝓸𝓹𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝗵𝓮𝗿𝗲: gⱯ𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘀⩶𝗰𝗈𝗺

Caught off guard, Hadley was quick to protest, feeling such a fuss was unnecessary.

“There’s really no need for a party, really.”

“Why not?” Nyla was insistent. “You are Eric’s wife. With your return, it’s important for everyone to see you. They might otherwise assume Eric is available.”

Hadley smirked, well aware that Eric was indeed available now that they’d signed the divorce papers.

“Really, Nyla, there’s no need…” Hadley persisted in her attempt to decline.

“But it is necessary.” Nyla sighed and added, “Your grandmother’s biggest concern before she died was your well-being. She left you in my care, asking me to look after you… Have I let you down these past years? Are you angry with me?”

“Not at all,” Hadley quickly comforted her.

It seemed the party was inevitable.

“Fine, let’s do it your way, Nyla.”

She felt obligated to honor Nyla’s past kindness.

“That’s my girl,” Nyla sounded pleased. “We’ll make it a celebration to remember.”

“Thank you.”

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