Chapter 97
97:
Though his expression remained composed, his next words carried an unmistakable weight. “And why is that? What makes someone like me worth your gratitude?”
Doubt lingered beneath the surface, an unspoken need for reassurance gnawing at him.
Yet in the end, uncertainty kept him from pressing further.
Before she could respond, he flicked something toward her. “Catch.”
Instinct took over as she reached out, fingers closing around the object before she even registered what it was.
How could she not be grateful? He had been more than she ever dared to hope for.
Linsey blinked down at the handkerchief in her grasp, momentarily dazed.
“Don’t get too ahead of yourself,” Collin said, amusement lacing his tone. “Save your tears for later. Once you get there with me, you’ll have a real reason to cry.”
She hesitated, then asked, “Are you worried they’ll single you out? Do you think I’d ever be ashamed of you?”
His movements stilled, his gaze returning to hers.
Gone was the hesitation in her expression. Determination had taken its place.
Collin narrowed his eyes, his voice unreadable. “Say that again.”
His reaction only strengthened her resolve. She lifted her chin and said firmly, “Collin, I’d never be embarrassed because of you. If anything, I’ll stand up for you. And if anyone gives you trouble, I’ll make sure they regret it.”
Collin arched an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes. “You? Make them regret it?”
“Absolutely. I’m capable of more than just words. If it comes down to it, I won’t hesitate to use stronger methods. But don’t worry—I won’t be reckless. I won’t make things harder for you.” Linsey spoke with unwavering certainty.
𝙈𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙪𝙥𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙨.𝙘𝙤𝙢
A quiet chuckle escaped Collin, amusement flickering in his eyes. She had to be joking. After all, the memory of her tear-streaked face was still fresh in his mind.
If those tears returned, he wasn’t sure he would know how to soothe them.
At that moment, Collin had entirely forgotten Linsey’s sharp words during the argument with Dustin.
“Just stay close and steer clear of any drama. Tonight, your main task is to assist with the wheelchair,” he instructed in a level tone.
Linsey raised her eyebrows in mild surprise. “After all the effort I put into looking fabulous tonight, that’s all you’re asking of me?”
His composure briefly wavered, and the corner of his mouth twitched. “What? You think that task is beneath you?”
“Not at all!” she quickly stood, positioning herself behind him. “I’ll do as you say, no questions asked.”
Watching her comply so readily, Collin felt an unsettling twinge. He was wary that she might present surprises he hadn’t considered.
This evening, his plan was simply to introduce Linsey at the Riley family’s banquet as a formality. He had no desire to draw her into his complicated dealings with them.
The grandest hotel in Grester was alive with the hum of prominent figures from various sectors arriving in succession, filling the space with animated conversation.
“Happy birthday, Mr. Riley!”
“Mrs. Riley, your son is so handsome. He’s destined for great things.”
Clad in a lavish gown, Fernanda responded with a warm smile. “Thank you. We missed having a proper toast at the last wedding banquet, so let’s make up for it tonight.”
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