No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

"Come on now, Mr. Wagner, can't you see it?" Allen teased, gesturing for Phipps to come closer. Phipps obediently stepped forward, standing almost in the faces of Dustin and Conrad. This time, they had a clear view, close enough to see the fine details of his skin. I could see it too, crystal clear. A voice inside me whispered: he's Ernest.

"Allen, you've really outdone yourself. Where did you find this guy?" Conrad sneered.

Allen replied with a light smile, "Fate."

Then, turning to me, he asked, "Isn't that right, Ms. Hudson?"

My eyes remained locked on Phipps, trying to see through his exterior to confirm he was my Ernest.

"Phipps, Ms. Hudson here seems quite taken with you. Would you consider staying?" Allen finally got to the point.

"Mr. Clark, you know my stance. I'm not for sale," Phipps responded, making his position clear. His firm 'not for sale' stance darkened Dustin and Conrad's moods further.

Allen shrugged helplessly at me, "See, Ms. Hudson? I told you he wouldn't agree."

Mr. Clark, I'll be on my way," Phipps said, nodding before turning to

nudge on my shoulder from Fanny,

steps towards Phipps, wrapped my arm around his neck, and whispered into

Fanny chimed in, "Mr. Wagner, she's making

hand slid over the back of Phipps's neck, feeling for something that wasn't there. I didn't give up, ignoring

his neck closely,

and see, was missing. This man wasn't

and disheartened. Fanny came over, understanding everything without needing

want to press

identity, he wouldn't dare involve the police, fearing exposure.

hope and anticipation turn into profound disappointment made me feel like a fool. Especially facing Phipps's cold, disdainful look, I realized I had been wrong. I

based solely on

in

was my