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 something to do with

is he now?"

"Locked up!"

a deep breath, "Can I see

arrange it," Dustin assured me

not of flamboyant roses,

at Dustin, who offered a gentle smile, "Couldn't get

carried a hint of

sweet talk, it seemed Dustin was ready to make

Emily, I faced him squarely, "Are you

and he didn't look away, "Felicia, I just want to be there for

remembered what Conrad

about how awkward it

put it to Dustin, "You're not worried about my past? Not Scared

pressed, "Even

"I was scared before, and that's why I missed out on

I paused, "My heart still belongs

firmly, wanting to gauge his