Chapter 43
43:
She turned to the bystanders who had defended her. Several older women offered her knowing looks and firm advice.
“Young lady, don’t go soft on that kind of man. Once a jerk, always a jerk.”
“That’s right. Married or not, never look back.”
“When you choose a partner, make sure you see him for who he really is before giving your heart away.”
Linsey forced a small, wry smile but nodded obediently. “I appreciate it. I’ll keep that in mind.”
As the crowd slowly dispersed, a warmth settled in her chest. The kindness of these strangers—people who had no reason to care—soothed the bitterness Felix and Joanna had left behind.
She had been an orphan her whole life. No parents had ever given her such words of wisdom.
For years, she had poured all her love, all her dreams, into Felix, believing he could give her the warmth of a real family.
But reality had been cruel.
She had wasted five years on him—five years that had taught her the hard way that Felix would never be the man she had hoped for.
No matter what, she would never go back to him.
If he dared to show up in her life again, she wouldn’t hesitate to put him in his place, just like today. And if words weren’t enough, she wouldn’t hold back from taking action.
Her threats hadn’t been just for show.
Just then, her phone rang, snapping her from her thoughts.
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She glanced at the caller ID—Collin.
“Hello.” She answered, already making her way toward the mall exit. Collin’s voice was steady as he said, “It’s late. Why aren’t you home yet? Still caught up with work?”
Linsey adjusted her bag on her shoulder and answered softly, “I’m at the mall. Something came up and delayed me. I’m heading back now.” He didn’t press for details. Instead, he said, “Send me the mall’s address. I’ll send a car for you.”
Surprised by the offer, she instinctively replied, “That’s not necessary. I can just take the bus home.”
For a moment, there was silence on the other end. When Collin finally spoke, his tone was heavier.
“It’s dark. It’s not safe for you to be out alone.”
She glanced through the glass doors of the mall. The streets outside were dimly lit, shadows stretching across the pavement.
Realizing he had a point, she didn’t argue further. A small, involuntary smile tugged at her lips. “Okay.”
When she had first moved into Vista Villa, Collin had been distant—cold, almost indifferent. But now, he was showing concern for her.
Maybe things between them were beginning to change.
Not long after they ended the call, a message popped up on her phone. The car had arrived.
She stepped outside, heading toward the roadside parking area. Before she got close, a small crowd caught her attention. Several girls were huddled together, chatting excitedly.
“The window rolled down for a second, and I swear, the guy inside is ridiculously handsome!”
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