?Chapter 826:


    Dustin, cautious of Dolores’ reaction, hesitated, then said, “Collin urged me to be forthright and pursue Dolores with determination.”


    Dolores blushed, quickly reached for her water to hide her embarrassment, and grumbled, “Do you really have to bother us while we eat? Cut out the nonsense.”


    “I was just answering Linsey’s question,” Dustin murmured, sounding somewhat hurt.


    Linsey, amused by their banter, chuckled warmly. After a brief pause, she considerately suggested, “I’ll step out as soon as I’m done eating to give you both some privacy.”


    Dustin’s expression immediately brightened, gratitude evident. “Thanks a lot, Linsey!”


    Dolores reflexively held onto Linsey’s arm, her voice tinged with resistance. “Wait a minute, who gave you permission to leave?”


    With a resigned expression, Linsey moved closer to Dolores and murmured, “It’s important for you two to discuss things openly. That’s the only way you’ll truly understand your feelings toward him.”


    Caught off-guard, Dolores momentarily lost her words.


    Their meal was served just then.


    As they were about to begin eating, a voice that sounded somewhat familiar interjected, “Mr. Wade, what are the odds! Collin and I just decided to dine here, and here you are.”


    Turning towards the voice, Linsey found herself meeting Collin’s intense look.


    Beside him stood Haven, who was elegantly dressed in a chic long gown, her smile gracious yet calcted.


    Linsey paused, her utensils in mid-air.


    The instant Haven noticed Linsey, her expression shifted with surprise. Haven was overwhelmed by Linsey’s natural elegance, but her initial shock quickly turned into a subtle shade of envy.


    Linsey’s simplicity belied her poised andpelling charm.


    Her fine features resembled those of a finely sculpted masterpiece.


    She exuded the youthful vibrancy of a university student, blending innocence with a captivating allure.


    Something about Linsey struck a chord of recognition in Haven, unsettling her with a vague sense of familiarity.


    Haven was eager to uncover Linsey’s identity and the reason behind her lunch with Dustin.


    Dolores, turning to see Collin, registered surprise with a sharp intake of breath.


    The unexpected sight of Collin, particrly with another woman, caught herpletely off guard.


    Since Dolores had departedst night’s banquet early with Dustin, she was unaware of who Haven might be.


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