Chapter 246

After the battle, Dustin, Natasha, and some Harmon family members had supper together. He returned to the brightly lit medical center around midnight. Entering, he saw Dahlia Nicholson chatting animatedly with Caitlyn Lawler. Dahlia seemed far more relaxed than her usual icy demeanor.

"Mr. Rhys, you're back," Caitlyn said, rising to greet him. "Have a chat with Ms. Nicholson. I'll serve supper."

"It's okay. I already ate," he smiled, turning to Dahlia. "Why are you here?"

"To thank you," she offered a rare smile. "If you hadn't saved me yesterday, I'd be in a world of trouble. I never thought Matt Laney was such a phony bastard."

"You're welcome. I'd help anyone in that situation," he replied calmly.

"Why? Still upset?" Her tone softened. "My mother was a bit rash. There was a misunderstanding. I apologize on her behalf. We're sorry."

Dustin was surprised. Dahlia was never one to back down; this apology was unusual. Still, it felt too late.

"No need to apologize. This isn't the first time I've been misunderstood. It doesn't bother me," he shrugged.

"Dustin, I know you were treated unfairly and went through hard times. I promise I'll never treat you badly again," she declared seriously.

"What was that? Out of the blue," he stared at her, bewildered.

She took a deep breath. "Come home with me. Alright?"

His body froze. Had she asked earlier, he would have agreed without hesitation. But after recent events, he was exhausted, scared of being hurt, and had moved on. He still had feelings for her, but refused to revisit the past, a time of silent suffering.

"I know you're in a difficult position. You don't have to answer now," Dahlia beamed. "I've thought it through. From now on, I'm taking back what's mine! Even if I have to fight Natasha Harmon, I won't back down! You know me—I never give up until I get what I want!"

Her serious expression startled him. "Did you drink tonight?" Dahlia was distant and haughty, never friendly. This belligerent attitude was unbelievable. What had gotten into her?

"I'm not drunk. I'm very sober. When you're free, tell Natasha—let's compete fairly, and we'll see who wins!"

Chapter 246 (continued)

With that, she tiptoed and kissed him quickly. She marched out, her flushed face betraying her emotions.

"Uh…" Dustin was stunned, tasting her sweetness. Had he just been ambushed? Since when did Dahlia flirt? He wondered if all women were fickle.

"Mr. Rhys, if it's inconvenient to relay that message to Ms. Harmon, I can help," Caitlyn offered, blushing and fiddling with her top. "That was quite a scene!"

"Nonsense! Go to bed!" He glared. She stuck out her tongue, then poked her head out timidly. "Mr. Rhys, which one do you love?"

"You little rascal! Why are you meddling?" Dustin grabbed a duster, pretending to chase her, and she quickly disappeared into the guest room.

After a quiet night, Dustin woke early, disturbed by the memory of the kiss. He’d tossed and turned, feeling unsettled.

"Oh, Dahlia, why did you show up out of nowhere just to mess with me?" he wondered.