No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

Chapter 63



"Hey, girl, don't forget about me." Dustin's voice broke through the silence, his large hand gently patting my head before letting go.

I hadn't shed a tear until then, but they suddenly started flowing, unstoppable.

I tried to swallow them back, fearing they'd betray my feelings, but it was in vain. The more I tried, the harder they fell. I had to turn away, not wanting Dustin to see me like that.

Dustin's hand landed on my head again, gently messing up my hair. "Crying before me is nothing to be ashamed of, get it?"

He'd said it before. And there he was, repeating it. But it felt like a blow to my already fragile pride. I turned away, hastily wiping my tears.

He seemed to understand, picking up my suitcase. "I'll put this in the car for you."

He left, and I covered my face, letting the tears flow freely.

When I went downstairs, Herschel and Jacqueline were still bustling in the kitchen, their joy at their son's return overshadowing their sorrow at losing me, their daughter-in-law. I couldn't bear to say goodbye, not wanting them to see my red, swollen eyes, afraid of their pleas for me to stay.

was waiting by the car, lost in thought. Seeing me, he put

my head, forcing a smile. "You've been gone four years.

smile played on his lips.

wanting him to see the pain in my eyes.

As I opened

to drive door is hand on

off, he

will you be staying? Can

steering

let out a rueful laugh, pulling his hand back.

tears streaming down my face

to my home. Goodbye to my love. Goodbye to the person

spoken to Jacqueline. She hadn't

unpacked, tidied up a bit, and went to bed. I woke up the

made a pact with Conrad

more

amusement park, conveniently

any run-ins with