Chapter 960

 960:
With Dustin’s kind heart and charm, she was sure he would meet someone better, someone who would win his mother’s favor. One day, he would forget about her. She would be nothing more than a passing memory.
That thought helped her hold back the tears. She wiped her face quickly, forcing herself to stay composed.
Then, in a steady voice, she said, “Alright, Linsey’s calling for dinner. You should go home now.”
Hearing her words, Dustin felt the weight on his chest lighten. He let out a quiet laugh. “Okay. Make sure you eat something. I’ll call you tomorrow.”
“Alright,” Dolores replied quickly, and the very next moment, she hung up.
As soon as the call ended, the strength drained from her body. Her breathing became uneven.
Her phone slipped from her fingers and hit the floor. Her head spun, and her cheeks burned with heat.
Everything felt heavy. Somewhere in the distance, she heard Linsey’s voice calling her name.
She looked up slowly and saw Linsey’s anxious face.
“Linsey…” Dolores didn’t realize how pale she looked, or that cold sweat had soaked her skin.
She barely whispered Linsey’s name before everything went dark.
When Dolores opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was Linsey. She sat at the bedside, her head resting in her hand, eyes closed, breathing quietly.
For a moment, Dolores just stared. A warmth spread through her chest, easing the panic she had felt earlier.
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She shifted slightly, then noticed something strange about her hand.
Turning her head, she saw the IV needle still in place.
The small movement was enough to wake Linsey.
“Hmm? Dolores, you’re awake?” Linsey sat up quickly, checking the drip and letting out a sigh of relief. “Good, it’s not finished yet.”
She stretched her arms and gave Dolores a gentle smile. “How do you feel?”
Dolores tried to speak, but her throat was dry and scratchy. “What happened to me?”
Linsey noticed her struggle and poured a glass of warm water, handing it to her. “The doctor said you fainted from over-breathing and low blood sugar. A glucose drip and some rest should do the trick.”
She didn’t mention the tears Dolores had shed before passing out. Instead, she started talking about light, everyday things—trying to lift the weight from Dolores’ heart.
“You were out for nearly five hours. We’ve already had dinner without you. Are you hungry? Collin prepared something delicious earlier—it’s still warm and waiting. Should I bring you a plate?” Lena asked.
At her words, Dolores, who had just set down her water glass, couldn’t suppress a warm laugh. “I must be truly blessed to have both of you fussing over me like this.”
Linsey’s expression shifted to mock indignation. “What kind of talk is that? We’re friends. You’re unwell, so naturally, I’m here to care for you.” She began to rise from her seat.
But Dolores caught her sleeve, fingers gently coaxing her back down. “I’m not quite ready to eat yet. Linsey, stay with me a little longer. I could use the company.”
Linsey hesitated for a moment, then settled back down with a bright smile. “Of course.”
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