Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

Chapter 1482

It was one of those quiet moments, with neither of them saying a word. Dustin had been spending a lot of time with Isaac lately, and seeing how much the kid looked like Max made him a bit envious.

He wondered what his own kids would look like if he ever had any. Staring into his glass of whiskey, Dustin found himself genuinely contemplating whether it was time to find a girlfriend. Otherwise, he'd be stuck in a loop of boozy hangouts, which was starting to feel pretty dull.

Jaired, leaning against the bar, gave Dustin a light nudge on the shoulder. "Hey, Dustin, seriously, don't go falling in love on me. If you do, who am I gonna hit the bars with? I'd be the only single guy left, and you know how awkward that'd be at group dinners." Jaired was counting on Dustin to stay a bachelor, knowing it might be a tall order.

Dustin chuckled and sighed. "I think I've had my share of casual flings. Settling down doesn't sound half bad."

"Don't even think about it! Life's too short to settle for just anyone," Jaired shot back, more for Dustin's sake than his own. After all, he'd already accepted his own solitary fate.

By the time Dustin left the bar, it was already past four. He decided to swing by Stellar Stage Entertainment. He arrived just as Peyton was leaving, and they missed crossing paths by a hair.

Donny spotted him and hurried over. "Dustin, Emma's mom

They had just sorted

called Emma. She had just wrapped up her first live stream and was about to get some lunch when she saw

"Dustin."

Donny mentioned your mom's been waiting for

her she was going for a walk in the nearby park; not visiting Stellar Stage Entertainment. It seemed odd-her mom wasn't one to go to

had recognized Dustin

about to dash

how about some spicy

Dustin called, saying you went looking for him

set down the groceries, did it for you. I remember his face-you saved him, and now you're left with a child. He should take responsibility. You're pregnant, still working hard, and dealing with all the judgment. It breaks my heart that he's out there not caring. Having a baby isn't

and gently patted her mom's back. "Mom, I know