No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

I managed a weak smile, fully aware that when Grant called, it wasn't just to shoot the breeze. He was checking if I was still kicking around.

I exposed my wrist, bringing the little charm close to my lips for a kiss, "Ernest, looks like your buddy's checking up on me on your behalf." Twilight.

Dustin picked me up from the office.

Standing in the sunset, he seemed to glow, drawing looks from every passerby. Young girls couldn't help but turn their heads, some even daring to throw compliments his way, "Hey handsome!" Dustin's eyes, however, were fixed on me, effectively tuning out the background noise.

"Looks like you've become quite the heartthrob," I teased as I approached.

He flashed a casual smile, "And you're joining in on the teasing."

"Any word from Emily?" I was genuinely concerned about her.

"Not yet. If I hear anything, you'll be the first to know. I did look into her boyfriend, though," he trailed off.

Something felt off, "What happened?"

"The guy's drowned in payday loans and gambling debts. Plus, he's been playing the field with several girls," Dustin's revelation hit me hard.

had

he

"Locked up!"

a deep breath, "Can I

it," Dustin assured me as we reached

bouquet not of flamboyant roses,

at Dustin, who offered a gentle smile, "Couldn't get you the stars, but I hope

words carried a hint

Dustin was ready

thoughts of Emily, I faced him squarely, "Are

hesitated, clearly not expecting my bluntness. Our eyes met in the rearview mirror, and he didn't look away, "Felicia, I just want to be there for you." His words were modest, but

remembered what

how awkward

him if Dustin and I got together. So, I put it to Dustin, "You're not worried about my past? Not

didn't reply, so I pressed, "Even if it

gave a wry smile, "I was scared before, and that's why

paused, "My heart still belongs to Ernest, even though...

words firmly,