?Chapter 1046:


    Hearing Dustin so coldly detach himself from her, Dolores discovered something unexpected. The crushing heartbreak she had braced herself for never came.


    Instead, a bone-deep weariness settled over her.


    She could grasp that Dustin was simply trying to sidestepplications.


    Joanne let a subtle smile grace her lips, choosing not to expose Dustin’s deception just yet.


    Linsey hadn’t agreed to work with her so far.


    She was prepared to grant Linsey additional time to think it over.


    Even so, she nned to do something to make her agree sooner.


    “Dustin’s absolutely correct. A few days ago, Dustin and I caught a movie together, and I spotted Linsey in the theater. I walked over to greet her, and that’s when I was introduced to Ms. Davidson.” Joanne delivered this exnation with a radiant smile aimed directly at Hester.


    “I see,” Hester responded atst, her wariness gradually dissolving. Joanne’s manner and words rang so genuine that Hester couldn’t question their authenticity.


    Dolores and Dustin both knew that Joanne was lying.


    Still, they desperately needed Joanne’s help to keep the secret. Anxiety twisted in Dolores’ stomach as she watched Joanne’s effortless deception, yet beneath that unease, she couldn’t deny the secret relief and gratitude flooding through her.


    This contradiction struck Dolores aspletely ridiculous and absurd. How had her rtionship with Dustin twisted into something soplicated?


    Don’t miss it: g?lиov???.cоm


    Turning back to Dolores, Joanne asked with that practiced smile, “Ms. Davidson, shopping for jewelry as well?”


    The store clerk positioned near Dolores offered a courteous smile, clearly believing these customers knew each other. Without pause, she jumped in to exin Dolores’ situation to Joanne. “This customer just walked in and hasn’t begun browsing yet.”


    Dolores was relieved. Thank goodness she hadn’t revealed her true purpose to the clerk. Had she done so, an incredibly ufortable scene would be unfolding right now.


    Dolores managed to curve her lips upward at precisely the right moment, though warmth never touched her eyes. “Simply taking a leisurely walk.”


    Excitement colored Joanne’s voice. “What perfect timing! Could you spare a moment to help me decide which nes tter me?”


    When she heard this request, Dolores’posure slipped, and her first instinct was to decline.


    Hester, typically cold toward Dolores, suddenly broke into an enthusiastic grin. “What an excellent idea.”


    .


    .


    .