?Chapter 823:


    Linsey found herself chuckling at the exchange, then hastily added, “Sorry.”


    Dustin seemed unfazed by herughter, his attention solely on Dolores.


    Feeling cornered by his intense gaze, Dolores gave in with exasperation. “Fine, fine, we’re friends. I haven’t even finished speaking, and you’re already upset?”


    Even though Dolores maintained a facade of calmness, Linsey was aware of the underlying turmoil, evidenced by the increasing pressure of Dolores’ grip on her hand.


    Despite her best efforts to endure the difort, Linsey eventually had to pinch Dolores’ palm gently to snap her out of her daze.


    Upon regaining herposure and realizing her emotional turmoil in Dustin’s presence, Dolores quickly said, “Step aside. Linsey and I are famished. We’re going to eat.”


    Dustin’s face lit up. “Why don’t I take you both out? There’s this new restaurant I’ve been meaning to try.”


    He then looked expectantly at Linsey, hoping for her agreement. “How about it, Linsey? If you’d prefer somewhere else, just name it, and we’ll go there.”


    Dolores couldn’t resist a retort, hinting at her independence. “We don’t necessarily need your ride; I’ve got my own car.”


    Dustin acknowledged this with a nod, still amiable. “That’s totally fine. You can drive if you prefer. I’m just offering options here. It’s really whatever you two decide.”


    Linsey smiled slightly, deferring the decision. “I’m open to anything. Dolores, why don’t you pick?”


    Dustin then cautiously focused on Dolores, saying, “Dolores, the decision is yours.”


    Dolores, taken aback by Dustin’s demeanor, felt slightly embarrassed but kept her cool.


    She responded lightly, “Okay, let’s try the ce you mentioned. Just remember, if the food’s no good, you’re on the menu next.”


    And with that decision made, Linsey and Dolores joined Dustin in his car, heading to the restaurant.


    Dustin positioned himself in the driver’s seat and took a quick look in the rearview mirror before starting the car.


    He was still reeling from Linsey’s return, debating internally whether he should inform Collin.


    Collin had been tirelessly looking for Linsey for years.


    With this thought weighing on him, Dustin pursed his lips and stealthily reached for his phone, intending to send Collin a message. However, Dolores’ voice interrupted him from the back seat. “Dustin, what are you up to?”


    Caught off guard, Dustin almost let his phone slip from his hands. “Uh—nothing important.”


    Dolores gave a skeptical snort, her voice sharp. “You better not be thinking of telling Collin about Linsey again.”


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