Chapter 1049:

Anyone familiar with Hester knew her relationship with Dustin’s father was anything but peaceful. She had always loathed being called Mrs. Wade. Without Dustin’s upcoming inheritance of the Wade Group, Hester would have cut all connections to the Wade family without a second thought. Dolores’s chosen form of address had struck exactly the wrong chord with Hester.

Dustin felt the rising tension and intervened before his mother could explode. “Just call her Hester,” he said quickly.

Displeasure clouded Hester’s features. “That won’t be necessary.” She regarded Dolores, her voice turning sharp. “Ms. Davidson, if you’re unwilling to help Joanne select a necklace, we’ll manage without you. We’re unlikely to cross paths again anyway.”

Something dim flickered through Dustin’s gaze at her words.

That morning, Collin’s invitation had arrived at his doorstep. Originally, he had no intention of joining his mother and Joanne for their shopping trip. Yet something inexplicable had driven him to use the outing as his excuse to decline Collin’s offer.

Dolores, with him watching over both children. Lately, Linsey and Dolores had become practically inseparable. So where was Linsey now? What had drawn Dolores out on

Dolores wouldn’t have faced Hester

his frustration grew.

Dustin said, his brow creasing with displeasure. Dolores met his gaze with

ways to make Dustin’s birthday truly memorable. How foolish she had been to hope again. Dustin never intended

Joanne and Hester subjected her to open mockery and subtle barbs, Dustin merely watched in silence. His few lukewarm comments held no real intention of defending her honor. The thought of his mother discovering their continued contact terrified him too much to find the courage he should

“Dustin.”

Discover updates gⱯlησν?ℓs․com

calling his name reached Dolores’ ears. In the next heartbeat, Dustin’s brows drew together as shock flickered across his features,

with a sharp, warning look. “Dolores, what exactly do you think you’re going

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255