She was confident that once Dulcie determined her true ambitions, her life would start to align seamlessly.


    Lucinda was now ying the part of a wise mentor, keen on cheering Dulcie up.


    As Dulcie absorbed Lucindas words, she felt her hope rekindling.


    Yet, the sudden ring of Dulcies phone shattered the moment.


    It was Kyson again.


    Her burgeoning optimism swiftly faded.


    She was sure he called again just to hear Lucindas voice. Lucinda noticed the change in Dulcies demeanor, eyed the intrusive phone, and answered it on Dulcies behalf.


    Kyson, youre speaking to me, Lucinda.


    Taken aback, Kyson stuttered, Oh, Lucinda, hows everything going in Medican? Lucindas patience waned.


    She could see why Dulcie felt so agitated.


    Perhaps you should inquire about your girlfriends well-being first, she responded icily, her tone tinged with disapproval.


    No woman could tolerate her boyfriend asking about another woman in her presence.


    Kyson quickly dodged her remark and steered the conversation in a different direction. Ive been in touch with the folks at the Shaw Group branch in Medican.


    Just give them a call if you need something, okay? And… He continued, his voiceced with worry, while Dulcie sat with her fist tightly closed at her side.


    Jealousy wasnt supposed to be an issue for her, but it stung that Kyson seemed indifferent to her feelings.


    Was she nothing more to him than a ything or simply a partner in a marriage of convenience? As Kyson rambled on, Lucindas tolerance reached its limit, and she interrupted him, saying, Kyson, Dulcie and I have matters to attend to here, so unless its an emergency, dont bother calling back.


    She ended the call, handed the phone back to Dulcie, and tried to lift the spirits.


    Lets not let some tiresome man ruin our day.


    Well grab lunch now, and then youll apany me to the negotiations with Hollister. Lucinda felt an urge to share her wisdom with Dulcie, feeling suddenly protective.


    Staying strong made the fear of someone leaving her gradually disappear.


    Dulcie offered a small smile and nodded her appreciation.


    Thank you, Lucinda.


    Ill try my best not to slow you down.


    Following their meal, Lucinda assisted Dulcie in preparing, and together with Larry, they departed for their meeting with Hollis.


    While heading there, an idea struck Dulcie.