?Chapter 1027:


    After a brief pause, she added with a grin, “If it weren’t for how much you two look alike, I would never have guessed she’s your sister.”


    Jeffery arched an eyebrow. “Is that apliment for Linsey or a jab at me?”


    Alicia responded earnestly, “I’m not criticizing you. It’s just that Linsey, despite being younger, carries herself with such maturity. Maybe it’s because she grew up in an orphanage and learned independence early. Her friend Dolores shares that same confidence and decisiveness—qualities I really respect.”


    Jeffery’s gaze dropped subtly. “Linsey endured a lot of challenges in her childhood, never showing a hint of entitled pride.”


    He paused, then added with a touch of regret, “Sometimes I wish she would act a little more carefree, so I could dote on her as her big brother.”


    Alicia countered gently, “If Linsey were like that, you wouldn’t feel this need to protect her. It’s exactly because she’s so self-reliant that you feel this way.”


    Jeffery considered her words and nodded slowly. “You’re right.” As he spoke, he reached out to gently ruffle Alicia’s hair. “I can tell you really like them. They must feel the same, or they wouldn’t have spent so much time talking and nning to meet again.”


    Aliciaughed softly. “I didn’t expect us to hit it off so well. It feels like fate brought us together.”


    She squeezed Jeffery’s hand and continued, “I know you and your parents want Linsey to reconnect with the family. Let’s work together to show her we mean it. Maybe one day she’ll truly feel like part of the family.”


    As they talked, they sat close in the car, Jeffery taking extra care to ensure Alicia’sfort.


    Theirughter filled the air, creating a warm, intimate moment.


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    Unbeknownst to them, someone watched from a distance. Even as their car pulled away, the observer’s gaze lingered, their expression growing increasingly grim.


    Meanwhile, Linsey and Dolores spent the afternoon browsing shops, carefully selecting the perfect presents for Dustin.


    As they loaded their purchases into the car’s trunk, Linsey surveyed the heap of bags and remarked, “You kept saying you were stumped about what to get Dustin, but look at this haul! If he doesn’t appreciate this birthday surprise, I’d have a mind to call him out for being ungrateful.”


    Dolores grinned broadly, unable to contain her excitement. “I told you I would win him over with an avnche of gifts. Each one felt perfect for him—I couldn’t resist!”


    With that, they climbed into the car, one after the other.


    Linsey directed the driver to head to Dolores’ residence first. Dolores had mentioned needing to stash the gifts at home discreetly, keeping even Collin unaware to maintain the surprise.


    Linsey gave Dolores’ hand a reassuring squeeze, saying slowly, “Dustin’s going to adore these. You picked each one with such thoughtfulness—it’s not just about how many there are.”


    Dolores’ voice softened, unusually tender. “Thanks for spending the day with me, Linsey.”


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