?Chapter 962:


    Her jaw tightened as she pressed on. “His mother despises me. Even from our brief encounter, her disdain was clear. She sees me as nothing more than an unwee intrusion in Dustin’s life.”


    Linsey absorbed her friend’s words in contemtive silence, recognizing the weight of defeat in Dolores’ voice. She understood Dolores’ fierce independence, the pride that had always defined her approach to life’s challenges.


    The realization struck Linsey that Dustin’s mother’s rejection must have shattered something fundamental in her confidence.


    Dolores met Linsey’s eyes with unwavering resolve. “Some people might try to charm their partner’s parents, bending themselves into whatever shape might earn approval. But that’s not who I am. The woman Dustin’s mother envisions as perfect for him bears no resemnce to me. No amount of self-transformation could ever satisfy her standards.”


    She then added, “More importantly, I’ve neverpromised my authentic self for anyone. The moment I start changing to fit someone else’s mold, I cease to be me.”


    When Linsey finally emerged from the guest bedroom, afternoon sunlight streamed through the windows.


    Collin had been working on hisptop in the living room. The instant he saw her, he abandoned hisptop and rose to his feet.


    “Are you hungry?” he asked, concern evident in his voice. “I’ll whip up something for you.”


    “I’m alright. I’d rather wait for Dolores to wake up so we can share a meal together,” Linsey replied, crossing the room toward him before adding, “Shouldn’t you be at the office today?”


    Collin’s fingers traced through her hair with tender care. “The morning was light, so I decided to work from here instead.”


    He noticed the subtle shadows beneath her eyes—clear evidence of a restless night spent consoling Dolores.


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    “You haven’t eaten in hours. Let me make you mac and cheese,” he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. “I understand your concern for Dolores, but neglecting yourself won’t help anyone.”


    Without waiting for a response, Collin gently guided her toward the kitchen. Instead of letting her enter, he settled her at the dining table with a firm but gentle hand. “Ten minutes is all I need.”


    Linsey surrendered, a mix of exasperation and warmth blooming on her face. “Alright, I’ll wait for your special dish then!”


    A quietugh escaped him as he disappeared into the kitchen, already gathering ingredients.


    From her seat at the table, Linsey observed his purposeful movements, the quiet confidence with which he navigated the space. She could see beyond the practicality of the moment—Collin had anticipated she might need him, and so he had chosen to stay within reach rather than retreat to his office.


    Collin embodied a quiet generosity—always offering more than his words promised.


    A wave of tenderness washed over Linsey as she let herself drift into thought. Inevitably, her mind wandered to Dolores, still curled up in the guest bedroom.


    Last night had unfolded in whispered confessions and silent tears, with Dolores finally allowing herposure to crumble.


    When Linsey had woken, she had instinctively searched her sleeping face for signs of healing, only to find that even in sleep, Dolores bore the telltale puffiness around her eyes.


    Throughout their years of friendship, Linsey had seen Dolores face many challenges with strength. But she had never seen her so utterly broken.


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