Chapter 1040:


    She was almost startled by how quickly these thoughts tumbled through her head.


    By the time Dolores returned to the moment, M was already speaking again, her voice soft with understanding. “It’s alright, truly. Any time you’re free—”


    But before M could say more, Dolores shed Linsey a gentle smile and said, “I’ll handle things on my ownter. Linsey, why don’t you have lunch with Mr. and Mrs. Lawson? After so many years apart, you must have a lot to catch up on.”


    Linsey’s eyes went wide in protest. “But—I…”


    Out of the corner of her eye, Dolores spotted M’s and Cruz’s faces brightening with hope, and a weight seemed to lift from her shoulders.


    Dolores could see without a doubt that the Lawsons’ feelings for Linsey were sincere.


    If only they could show her genuine warmth and make up for the time they had lost, Dolores believed Linsey’s forgiving heart would eventually let them back in.


    She understood better than anyone—Linsey still carried a deep yearning for family.


    “No more second thoughts,” Dolores said, squeezing Linsey’s hand with a steady grip and sending her a look full of gentle encouragement. “Go on. We’ll catch up tonight.”


    With that, she offered a polite smile to the Lawsons and slipped away down the street.


    Linsey stayed rooted to the spot, her gaze following Dolores until she was out of sight, her emotions tangled in knots.


    Those few words from Dolores said everything she needed to hear. She knew exactly what Dolores hoped for—a real conversation between her and the Lawsons, one that might finally bring closure.


    Stay connected gα?ησv????s


    Even if she decided not to return to them, she owed everyone an honest answer.


    Otherwise, the Lawsons would never stop searching for her.


    Resolved, Linsey turned to M, who stood there, eyes shining with unshed tears, and said in a calm, clear voice, “Let’s go.”


    M looked stunned for a moment, but Cruz gently nudged her back to herself.


    “Yes! Yes, of course!” M’s tears spilled over, trickling down her cheeks and leaving a little mark on her blouse.


    Watching M break down like that, Linsey felt a sharp pang deep inside, her breath faltering for just a moment.


    Still, her face gave nothing away, leaving her emotions well hidden. It wasn’t just M and Cruz who were overjoyed—Jeffery and Alicia shared quick, hopeful looks as well.


    “Come along, Linsey,” M said softly, reaching out in an attempt to take Linsey’s hand.


    Linsey instinctively stepped back, gently sidestepping M’s gesture. M’s fingers dropped to her side, and a flicker of sadness crossed her features.


    A hush settled over the group, making the air heavy with awkwardness.


    Linsey’s expression stiffened, her lips parting as if she meant to say something, but no words came.


    .


    .


    .<hr>


    Message from Noah: Hope you have a great day dear readers. God loves you and Noah wishes you all the best. (?O?=)? ?


    .


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!