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.

might have had something to do

he now?" I

"Locked up!"

took a deep breath, "Can

it," Dustin assured me as we reached his

of flamboyant roses, but of

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

carried a hint of

and sweet talk, it seemed Dustin was

myself from thoughts of Emily, I faced him squarely, "Are

rearview mirror, and he didn't look away, "Felicia, I just want to be there for you." His words were modest, but the

what Conrad

about how awkward

together. So, I put it to Dustin, "You're not worried about my past? Not Scared of the gossip or

pressed, "Even if

was scared before, and that's why

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

those last words firmly, wanting