Until Dustin stepped up and proved himself, Linsey found it hard to put her full trust in him.
Collin caught the anxiety flickering across Linsey s face and gave a small laugh.
He reached over, smoothing the worry lines from her forehead. Hey, it s going to be alright. I ve got faith in both Dustin and Dolores. They ll figure it out in their own time.
He lowered his voice, offering a soft reminder. Remember all the storms we weathered before we finally found our way back to each other?
That memory brought a genuine smile to Linsey s lips, her eyes shining as she met Collin s gaze. You re right about that.
Collin smiled back. And honestly, not every rough patch needs to be so dramatic. I just want you to stay hopeful. Don t let this get you down.
A soft laugh escaped Linsey. If someone had told me that Mr. Riley would turn out to be so thoughtful and wise, I never would have believed them.
Collin took her teasing in stride, offering her a gentle smile as he rested a reassuring hand on her back. You re not the type to agree to Joanne s scheme just so she can get closer to Jeffery. That s not who you are.
That earned another nod from Linsey. Exactly. Ripping a family apart is wrong, especially now that Alicia s expecting. Even though Jeffery and I haven t always seen eye to eye, I could never help Joanne break up his family.
We ll handle things our way, Collin replied with quiet determination.
If Joanne wants to use Hester s grudge against Dolores as leverage, then we ll just have to help Hester see Dolores in a new light.
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Linsey s agreement was quick and certain. Absolutely!
Her gaze lingered on Collin, warmth flooding her chest at the sight of his easy smile.
Thank you so much, baby, Linsey said softly, her gratitude sincere.
Those simple words brought a light to Collin s face. He leaned in, cupping her cheeks with a tenderness that made his voice drop to a hush. No, I should thank you too. I m grateful you trust me enough to share what s on your mind.
The two of them shared a quiet, intimate smile in the gentle glow of the room.
Then, Collin leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to Linsey s forehead, his lips cool against her skin.
Linsey s eyes drifted closed, letting the moment settle around her.
Collin s voice was little more than a loving whisper. Sweet dreams.
When morning arrived, Linsey reached across the bed and found herself alone.
She washed up and made her way to the living room, where Dolores sat, tapping away at her laptop.
The noise of her footsteps caught Dolores attention, and she turned with a cheerful grin. You re up! Glenda s whipped up breakfast go grab some before it gets cold. Collin left with the kids at the crack of dawn. No idea what their plans are.
A flicker of confusion crossed Linsey s face. Her thoughts drifted back to the late-night conversation she had shared with Collin. She had figured Collin was going to see Dustin, but bringing the children along made little sense.
.
.
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