?Chapter 1023:


    Linsey listened quietly, touched by how deeply Dolores cared for Dustin, a warmth spreading through her chest. She had never seen Dolores so devoted to any man before.


    Seeing the genuine connection between Dolores and Dustin, Linsey felt a quiet joy for her friend.


    Dolores continued, “Besides, Dustin has been really stressedtely because of his mother. I know he’s been working hard to get her to warm up to me, and it’s weighing on him. So, I want to use his birthday as a chance to show him how much he means to me by putting together a memorable celebration.”


    Linsey gazed into Dolores’ hopeful eyes and gave her hand a gentle, encouraging squeeze. “You’re so considerate. I’m sure he’ll see how much you care.”


    Dolores’ cheeks flushed slightly, a hint of self-consciousness creeping in. “This is my first time picking out a gift for a guy, and I’m pretty new to this,” she admitted, casting a shy nce at Linsey. “I figured, since you and Collin have been together for years, you’d know a thing or two about surprising a partner. That’s why I insisted youe along.”


    “I’m more than happy to help!” Linsey replied eagerly. After a brief pause, her voice softened. “I once nned what I thought was an amazing surprise for Collin, but it didn’t go as nned.”


    Dolores looked puzzled for a moment before realization dawned. “Are you talking about when you were pregnant four years ago?”


    “Yeah. Sadly, that surprise turned into more of a shock,” Linsey sighed before emphasizing, “I really hope your surprise goes perfectly this time.”


    Doloresughed, her tension easing. “As long as I pick the right gift, I think it will be fine.”


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    Just then, they spotted a sleek men’s clothing store nearby.


    Catching Dolores’ fixed gaze, Linsey smiled and suggested, “How about we check it out?”


    “Absolutely!” Dolores eagerly tugged Linsey into the store.


    The array of men’s fashion was almost overwhelming, with racks of stylish jackets, crisp shirts, and tailored essories. Dolores’ eyes widened. “I had no idea men’s clothing had gotten this varied,” she said, marveling.


    Linsey, knowing Dolores wasn’t usually into fashion, chimed in, “Well, I’ve noticed Dustin enjoys dressing sharply. Picking out an outfit for him could be a great choice.”


    Dolores’ brow furrowed with worry as she grabbed Linsey’s arm. “You’ve got to help me, Linsey! I’m hopeless when ites to style. What if I choose something Dustin hates?”


    “Don’t worry,” Linsey reassured her with a smile. “I’ll give you some pointers. I’m sure Dustin will love anything you pick out.”


    Dolores grinned, a yful glint in her eye. “I’m not banking on my gift-choosing skills, so I’m going for quantity over quality. I’ll get him a ton of different things—Dustin won’t have time to nitpick when he’s too touched by it all.”


    As they sifted through clothes that matched Dustin’s taste, a familiar voice called out from behind. “Linsey!”


    Linsey turned, startled, and saw Jeffery and Alicia, whom she had met not long ago.


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