Chapter 41

Chapter 41:

Hadley, gripping the bouquet tightly, felt rooted to the spot. What could she possibly say or do?

“Alright, I’m leaving.”

She turned sharply and left without looking back.

“Linda.” After Hadley exited, Eric approached Linda, offering support. “There’s no need to cry. She’s gone now, and I’ll make sure the staff doesn’t let her back in.”

“Okay…” Linda’s voice was choked with tears.

Hadley stood at the bus stop closest to the hospital, stunned.

The buses stopped running at eight?

Now what was she supposed to do?

Would she need to walk home again?

After a grueling two-hour trek the previous evening, it seemed she was in for a repeat performance tonight.

Cursed bus. Once again, her feet were her only reliable transport.

Blaming herself for not checking the bus schedule, she resignedly began her walk.

This private hospital was even more isolated than the sanatorium where Nyla was treated, chosen for its peacefulness.

Now, Hadley felt the full impact of her miscalculation.

She trudged forward, the road deserted except for the rare vehicle whizzing by. The surrounding quiet was almost oppressive.

Out of nowhere, a motorcycle sped past, then abruptly circled back to pull up in front of her. The rider, a young man with bleached blonde hair, offered her a slightly unsettling smile.

“Hey, missy, it’s late for a walk, isn’t it? Come on, I’ll give you a lift.” Hadley’s nose twitched as she caught the strong scent of alcohol and cigarettes emanating from him.

“No, thank you.”

She tried to move past him, but he blocked her way. “Wait a minute!” His eyes flicked to her legs. “I offered you a lift. Come on, I’m not a bad guy.”

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Before she could refuse again, he dismounted his bike, seized her arm, and yanked her toward it.

“Release me!” Taken aback, Hadley resisted, struggling fiercely. “Let go of me!”

“Don’t be shy! I’m just trying to help.”

“Who do you think you are? Back off.” Summoning all her strength, Hadley swung her bag, striking him squarely.

“Leave me alone!”

“Did you just hit me?”

Fueled by anger, he lashed out, knocking Hadley to the pavement. But he wasn’t done yet.

He immediately pinned her down, his fingers brushing against her cheek.

“Your beauty is enchanting, and your skin is so delicate.”

Hadley froze, repulsed by his touch. She felt sick, and panic surged through her. She always carried pepper spray in her bag, and for extra precaution, a half brick.

In a desperate move, she reached into her bag, grabbed the brick, and swung it instinctively.

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