Master of his heart (Max and Brielle) novel Chapter 1520

Emma opened her mouth, then slowly closed it again, settling into a silence that lingered around the dinner table. The kids, blissfully unaware of the tension hanging in the air, continued to eat at their usual unhurried pace.

After dinner, Dustin volunteered to do the dishes. Emma stood at the kitchen doorway, feeling a pang of inadequacy. For the past two weeks, Dustin had been the one cooking, cleaning, and looking after the kids. Meanwhile, she was caught up with managing the herbal garden and barely spent more than three hours at home each day, excluding sleep.

Watching Dustin’s back as he washed up, Emma felt the urge to speak. “Did you have trouble sleeping last night?” she asked.

Dustin stiffened slightly, still facing away, and simply nodded. “Yeah.”

How could he have slept well? He had considered the possibility that Emma wouldn’t leave with him, but facing that reality was a bitter pill to swallow.

Emma thought about suggesting he stay another night for safety’s sake, but what would that solve? They’d both be avoiding the inevitable.

Her eyes welled up, and she turned away, saying, “Why don’t you rest for a couple of hours before you go? Jaime’s asleep, and I need to dry some herbs in the yard.”

Dustin remained silent for a while before managing a quiet, “No need.” After tidying up, he went to pack. His presence was troubling for her, so why drag it out?

In truth, he wasn’t afraid of the heartache. This past year had been spent mostly reflecting and regretting his choices.

Dustin had always imagined marrying someone with whom he’d share a fiery, passionate love. But the woman he truly wanted to marry inspired feelings that were steady and calm, unlike the whirlwind romance he had envisioned. Unfortunately, time had played its cruel tricks.

He hadn’t brought much with him, choosing to leave some of Heather’s things behind. He buckled Jaime into the passenger seat, securing the seatbelt. Jaime, unaware of the finality of their departure, grinned up at him.

Taking one last glance at Emma, busy with the herbs in the yard, Dustin announced, “I’m leaving now.”

Emma, still turned away, continued spreading the herbs, simply nodding. “Goodbye, Dustin.”

Dustin considered giving her a hug but stopped himself, knowing it would only make her uncomfortable since she didn’t love him.