Chapter 321

 321:
Offering a hand, Dominic helped Dustin to his feet. “Let’s head out, I’ll get you home safely.”
Despite his unsteady condition, Dustin resisted, his words slurred but determined. “I’m not going anywhere! I can still outplay Collin!”
With a dismissive snort, Collin retorted, “Alright then, stand up on your own, and I’m all yours for another round.”
Linsey observed the scene, her expression one of disbelief. This was a side of Collin she had never seen, his usual calm composure replaced by childish competitiveness. It was an eye-opener: beneath his cold exterior, there lurked a playful, almost boyish spirit, ignited by the simplest of challenges.
Linsey could tell that Collin was genuinely content in this setting. It seemed that he felt most at peace when he was among his friends.
Watching Dustin stagger slightly from too much drink, Linsey decided it was time to step in. In a gentle tone, she said to Collin, “Come on, cut him some slack. It’s just Dustin being Dustin, always a bit wild and carefree.”
Collin paused, then nodded slowly, his expression softening due to Linsey’s intervention. “Alright,” he conceded. “Dominic, take Dustin home. And be careful out there.”
As Dominic led a swaying Dustin out, Dolores also prepared to leave. She sensed that Linsey and Collin would appreciate some privacy.
“I’ve got some work piled up, so I better get back,” she explained, masking her intent with a professional excuse.
Linsey, ever concerned for Dolores, offered, “Let us drive you back. It’s no trouble at all.”
Dolores shook her head firmly, her voice resolute. “Really, there’s no need. I’m sober, and it’s not far. I’ll be fine.”
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The discussion went back and forth until Collin, wanting to ease the situation, called over his assistant. “Take Dolores home, will you?” he instructed.
“Yes, Mr. Riley,” the assistant responded promptly.
With the others gone, the room grew quieter, leaving just Linsey and Collin alone in the soft glow of the remaining lights.
Linsey noticed the flush on Collin’s cheeks, an unmistakable sign of the evening’s indulgences. With a touch of concern lacing her voice, she said, “Collin, you’ve had quite a bit to drink tonight. Are you sure you’re alright?”
Collin held his liquor with remarkable ease compared to others. However, noticing Linsey’s concerned gaze, he replied with a serene smile, “Just a tad, but it’s manageable. A brisk walk in the fresh air should set me right.”
Linsey offered a nod of understanding. “Okay, I’ll just pop into the restroom quick and then we can take that walk.”
“Sounds good,” Collin agreed.
As Linsey returned from the restroom, a waiter intercepted her path.
“Pardon me, are you Linsey Riley?” he inquired.
Startled, Linsey eyed him with a mix of surprise and caution. “Yes, and who might you be?”
In a respectful tone, the waiter explained, “I’ve been asked to deliver a gift to you. Please, accept it.”
Confusion flickered across Linsey’s face. “A gift?”
Hadn’t her friends already showered her with gifts earlier?
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