Chapter 857: Chapter 857



“Never.”

How could Bobby possibly change? He was a notorious playboy, potentially capable of settling down, yet his yearnings remained as potent as ever.

Previously, his many relationships had catered to his needs, but now Fannie was his sole focus, her presence fueling his relentless desires.

True to his promise, Bobby later phoned Michael.

Upon hearing the details, Michael questioned, “Is this another one of your schemes with Jett?”

Bobby hadn’t expected Jett to approach Michael so soon. “What’s going on?”

“He’s warned me to ensure Dulce’s safety, or else to steer clear of her entirely.”

“Isn’t that straightforward?” Bobby quipped playfully. “Just bring her over, pamper her like royalty, and let Jett deal with that.”

“Can you quit throwing around such outlandish ideas?”

Bobby genuinely didn’t see his suggestion as outlandish. Without it, Dulce might very well end up at Fannie’s. “This would actually be good for Dulce. She’d love it.”

“Drop it. Now that Shawn and Katherine have a son, they’re too busy to entertain your antics. You’re causing trouble again.”

Thankfully, Fannie was there to rein Bobby in. Otherwise, he’d likely spiral out of control.

“Just ensure that Dulce doesn’t show up at Fannie’s,” Bobby asserted.

“What about Adrian?”

“He and Joelle are swamped. They’ve just heard about Ryland and have traveled abroad again. They won’t be back for days.”

Michael considered whether Bobby’s suggestion was really the only viable option. But inviting Dulce over seemed overly intimate, didn’t it? Would Dulce perceive his invitation as an overstep?

Deciding to give it a shot, Michael dialed Dulce’s number.

To his relief, Dulce accepted his invitation without hesitation. “Could I bring my things over after work?”

A warm flush spread across Michael’s cheeks and heart. “Uh… yes, that would be fine.”

After the call, Michael’s heart thrummed unevenly. He sat, hands clasped, lost in thought.

Johnny entered to hand over a document and noticed Michael’s distraction. “Mr. Frye, are you feeling alright? You seem a bit off lately.”

“No, I’m fine.”

“Alright, I’ll leave you to your thoughts then.”

“Johnny,” Michael called out, stopping him. “What exactly is your relationship with Dulce?”

Johnny offered a friendly smile. “We are simply good friends.”

“That day at the hotel…” Michael trailed off, not finishing his thought. Dulce’s easy acceptance had sown seeds of doubt, making him feel as if he—and possibly Johnny—were being manipulated.

Johnny quickly clarified, understanding the implication. “Mr. Frye, I hope there’s no misunderstanding. That day, I accompanied her to meet her mentor, Hodge.”

“Oh, so that’s the explanation,” Michael responded, his cheeks coloring slightly.

Wait, Hodge? Why was another man involved?

“Are she and Hodge particularly close?” Michael queried.

.

.

.