Chapter 123

Watching Sumner hastily depart as if escaping, Lindsey had mixed feelings.

She discreetly glanced at Domenic, who stood to the side with a hand in his pocket, and a sense of unexplainable melancholy washed over her.

She wondered how seriously he took Shelia’s words.

“Time to head home.

” Observing Summer’s departure, Domenic reached out and gently took hold of Lindsey’s wrist.

Yet, Lindsey instinctively sidestepped his touch, maintaining a cautious distance.

She bit her lip, then said, “Mr.

Walsh, you should go ahead.

I need some time alone.

”

Upon hearing this, Domenic halted and narrowed his eyes in contemplation.

“What’s the matter?”

Lindsey had tried to forget the memories of that night, but Shelia’s words brought it all back.

She couldn’t shake off the memories of that night.

The man’s strong body had pinned her down, and his lips had explored every inch of her.

His passionate ki*ses had left her with swollen lips by the morning light.

The marks were a stark reminder of her actions under a man’s influence that night.

She couldn’t take Domenic’s kindness any longer, fearing it would only perpetuate her deception.

Gripping her clothes nervously, Lindsey lowered her head and murmured, “It’s nothing.

I just need some time alone.

”

As she turned to leave, Domenic caught her wrist, pulling her into his embrace suddenly.

His breath enveloped her head, a clean and crisp scent filling her senses.

Gently lifting her cheek, he inquired in a deep tone, “Are you upset? Is it because I interrupted your time with him?”

With whom? Sumner?

Lindsey was at a loss for words.

She didn’t understand why Domenic would think that way.

He had come with her to meet Sumner to protect her.

She appreciated that.

Why would she be upset with him for it?

“No.

” Lindsey denied it and tried to get rid of Domenic’s arms.

But she remained trapped in his firm embrace.

He didn’t let her go.

Lindsey’s sudden distance and coolness left Domenic bewildered, a departure from his usual mastery of situations.

“If it’s not because of him, what’s bothering you?”