No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

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?"

glanced at me, offering a soft smile. "Wanted to

Jacqueline's eyes as Dustin

embrace, mumbling, "We thought we did something wrong, that you were holding a grudge for

about? I've just been busy overseas," Dustin explained, his gaze still fixed on me. His intense look sent

swiftly changed the subject from me and Conrad. Although Herschel seemed to come around, Jacqueline

mentioned he was hungry and was longing

got his parents bustling into the kitchen, insisting I join them for

and having said everything over the phone,

"I was starting to think you wouldn't come

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

busy figures in

I realized it was the perfect

pack my stuff

the

sadness or persuasion from

and Jacqueline when it was time

help you with the luggage," I

Dustin immediately

hands touched, and I quickly pulled back,

carry my bags, and I'm not