Chapter 61



Dustin was back, and it was as much a surprise as him remembering that old landline number of my dad's.

Herschel and Jacqueline were just as shocked, staring at Dustin for what felt like forever without uttering a single word.

Dustin had been gone for four years, not once coming back home during that time. His sudden return caught me off guard, but it was a pleasant surprise too.

"What's the matter, Mom, Dad? Don't you welcome me back?" Dustin asked with a smile as he approached.

Dustin was the kind-hearted soul everyone knew him to be. During my decade with the Wagner family, Dustin was the source of warmth in this house before he left.

But unlike Conrad, who was all about grand gestures, Dustin preferred actions over words, and his kindness was not always in the spotlight.

"Dustin," I called out to him.

That seemed to snap Herschel and Jacqueline back to reality. Jacqueline let go of me and walked to Dustin, giving him a few gentle smacks, "So, you finally remember your parents, huh?"

Herschel added, "Couldn't you have given us a heads-up?"

at me, offering a soft smile. "Wanted

up in Jacqueline's eyes as Dustin hugged

Dustin again before pulling him into a tight embrace, mumbling, "We thought we did something wrong, that you were holding a grudge for not coming back all these

just been busy overseas," Dustin explained, his gaze still fixed on me. His intense look sent my heart racing. Was he back because of

me and Conrad. Although Herschel seemed to come around, Jacqueline was still hesitant. With Dustin and

hungry and

his parents bustling into the kitchen, insisting

room with Dustin, and having said everything over the phone,

was starting to think you wouldn't come

can come whenever I want," I replied, my thoughts

busy figures

I realized it was

to pack my

the car,

sadness or persuasion from

and Jacqueline when it was time to

I'll help you with the luggage," I

need!" Dustin immediately

I quickly pulled back, a

never let you carry my bags, and I'm not about to start

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