No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

Chapter 631



I managed a weak smile, fully aware that when Grant called, it wasn't just to shoot the breeze. He was checking if I was still kicking around. I exposed my wrist, bringing the little charm close to my lips for a kiss, "Ernest, looks like your buddy's checking up on me on your behalf." Twilight.

Dustin picked me up from the office.

Standing in the sunset, he seemed to glow, drawing looks from every passerby. Young girls couldn't help but turn their heads, some even daring to throw compliments his way, "Hey handsome!"

Dustin's eyes, however, were fixed on me, effectively tuning out the background noise.

"Looks like you've become quite the heartthrob," I teased as I approached.

He flashed a casual smile, "And you're joining in on the teasing."

"Any word from Emily?" I was genuinely concerned about her.

"Not yet. If I hear anything, you'll be the first to know. I did look into her boyfriend, though," he trailed off.

Something felt off, "What happened?"

"The guy's drowned in payday loans and gambling debts. Plus, he's been playing the field with several girls," Dustin's revelation hit me hard.

It seemed Emily's attempt might have had something to do with her boyfriend.

"Where is he now?" I asked.

"Locked up!"

I took a deep breath, "Can I see him?"

"I'll arrange it," Dustin assured me as we reached his car.

Inside, there was a bouquet not of flamboyant roses, but of lavender mixed with baby's breath.

I looked at Dustin, who offered a gentle smile, "Couldn't get you the stars, but I hope this does the trick."

His words carried a hint of romance.

Flowers and sweet talk, it seemed Dustin was ready to make his move.

Pulling myself from thoughts of Emily, I faced him squarely, "Are you trying to woo me, Dustin?"

He hesitated, clearly not expecting my bluntness. Our eyes met in the rearview mirror, and he didn't look away, "Felicia, I just want to be there for you."

His words were modest, but the intention was clear.

I remembered what Conrad had said, about how awkward it would be for him if Dustin and I got together. So, I put it to Dustin, I

l

"You're not worried about my past? Not Scared of the gossip or feeling embarrassed?"

He didn't reply, so I pressed, "Even if it means clashing with Conrad?"

He gave a wry smile, "I was scared before, and that's why I missed out on you for so long."

"Then, Dustin, you should know that..." I paused, "My heart still belongs to Ernest, even though... he's gone."

I spoke those last words firmly, wanting to gauge his reaction.

But he was good at masking his feelings, showing no change in expression, Felicia, I heard about Ernest from Dave, and I'm truly sorry. understand your feelings, and it might not be the right time, but was afraid of missing another chance."

He was probably worried Conrad would make a move in Ernest's absence.

And after all his scheming to get rid of Ernest, wasn't it all to ensure no one stood in his way?

"Dustin, can you handle being with someone whose heart belongs to someone else?" I asked plainly.

His eyes narrowed slightly as he

looked at me, "Yes, I can. I can accept that Ernest has your heart, and lean accept... your past with Dave. As long as it's you, nothing else matters."

Such depth of feeling!

It was this very love that led to Ernest's demise.

At that moment, I realized I was the calamity they say comes with beauty.