No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

Mentioning my father, Dustin fell silent, acutely aware that his own father was responsible for my dad's death.

"I guess I'll never enjoy meatballs the same way again," I said, looking at the dish Phipps had prepared, my words lacking sincerity.

I couldn't let Dustin suspect Phipps. I was now certain that Phipps was Ernest in disguise, which meant he had a purpose.

Though I wasn't privy to his motives, my role was clear: cooperate and avoid causing trouble.

"Felicia, I'm truly sorry about your parents," Dustin said, displaying the expression of a man burdened by guilt.

His pretentiousness sickened me, but I placated him against my better judgment, "It's not your fault."

He managed a bitter smile, "Felicia, you're a kind soul."

Yes, foolishly kind. I once thought I could forgive the harm his parents inflicted on mine, but I've realized that's beyond me.

Not wanting to continue the conversation, I turned my attention to the creamy pumpkin soup before me, its sweet, milky flavor providing a semblance of comfort. Phipps' culinary skills were undeniable, even surpassing Ernest's previous attempts.

for him to admit he's Ernest, I'll have to ask if he spent these months perfecting his cooking instead of pretending to be

delicious," I complimented, under

you have plans tonight?" Dustin asked, hanging onto every

I was just speaking off the cuff," I replied, licking some pumpkin soup

how enticing that must have looked, Dustin's gaze deepened, his Adam's apple

invitation was sudden but not unexpected, considering his

to give him a glimmer of hope after keeping him

you feel like eating? Chinese

decide," I replied just as someone walked in,

leave,

turned my attention

I didn't leave a single bite, confident I wouldn't

message from Grant asking if someone was with me, hinting I might not be able to talk

but instead of responding, I tried calling Deborah, only to