She knew a serious conversation with Domenic was due.


    She hoped he would understand her stance.


    After regaining herposure, she stood and entered Sumner’s room.


    He looked up, anticipating her return, and asked, “Did he call?”


    She nodded, signaling she didn’t want to delve into it.


    “Are you hungry? What do you feel like eating? I’ll go get it.


    ”


    “Did he want you toe back?” Sumner’s voice was neutral.


    “No, he was just checking in.


    I’m staying here today to look after you.


    ”


    “And what about tomorrow?”


    “I’m staying for a few days,” said Lindsey, scrolling on her phone for food ces, keeping her tone light and distant.


    Sumner’s expression showed his concern.


    “You were in an ident.


    Isn’t it odd he hasn’t visited?”


    Lindsey avoided eye contact, dismissing the concern.


    “He’s swamped at work.


    ”


    Sumner felt a surge of frustration.


    This man seemed as neglectful now as he had been when Lindsey needed him during a past fire crisis.


    He felt sure this man didn’t cherish Lindsey the way she deserved, convinced no real love was there.


    Yet, Sumner paused to consider his own situation.


    How could he, in his current state, offer Lindsey happiness? He felt like a burden, especiallypared to her boyfriend.


    Overwhelmed by these thoughts, Sumner’s frustration turned physical.


    He struck his leg, which didn’t respond, his face a portrait of pain and frustration.


    Lindsey was quick to intervene, her voice urgent.


    “Stop that! What are you doing? Calm down, please!”


    Sumner sealed his lips shut and stayed silent.


    Then, as heid back, he shut his eyes and gave Lindsey the silent treatment.N?velDrama.Org holds text ? rights.


    Lindsey knew what was on his mind.


    She let out a small sigh.


    “I get it, it all came out of the blue, and it’s tough to ept the harsh reality.


    But hey, we’ve got to keep moving forward.


    Sumner, don’t lose hope.


    We’re in this together.


    I know you can recover and stand up just Like before.


    And as for thepany stuff, don’t worry about anything.


    Nancy has got it handled.


    The media is clueless for now.


    We’ll spill the beans when the time is right.


    ”


    Even with his eyes shut, Sumner listened intently to her words, his mind buzzing with thoughts.


    He knew he couldn’t afford to sink into despair.


    Not just for himself, but for Lindsey’s sake, he had to find a way to lift his spirits.


    He just couldn’t let her boyfriend win like that!


    Sumner squeezed his fists tightly.


    Right after hanging up with Lindsey, as Domenic was about to dial Hendrix, his phone buzzed.


    It was Emilio calling.


    When Domenic answered, he heard Emilio’s anxious voice.


    “Domenic, I’ve got some bad news!”