Chapter 522:
Trying to keep her composure, Linsey playfully retorted, “You’re impossible. Aren’t you supposed to be focused on your trip? Why aren’t you working?”
Linsey was unaware that, at that very moment, on the other end of the line, Collin was holding a signed agreement with a renowned jewelry designer. This designer was in exceptionally high demand, with every available slot in her schedule fully booked for the year. Collin had spared no effort, going to great lengths—both financially and strategically—to bypass the long wait and secure an exclusive commission.
The designer had guaranteed that a pair of rings, crafted to perfection, would be ready within the week, meeting his exact standards. The mere thought of soon having those exquisite rings in hand and proposing to Linsey sent a surge of excitement through him.
The moment he received confirmation, he dialed Linsey without hesitation. His emotions were overwhelming, filling him with the urge to share the news immediately. But he knew he had to wait. He wanted everything to be flawless—a breathtaking surprise and a proposal she would never forget.
“Relax, I only called after handling everything,” Collin reassured her with ease.
In truth, this so-called business trip to the nearby city had nothing to do with work. His sole purpose for traveling was to set the stage for the perfect proposal. For this, he had even pushed aside several pressing work matters.
Hearing his words, Linsey felt relieved. “That’s good.”
As she spoke, she scooped up a spoonful of soup and took a sip. Just a moment ago, it had seemed rather plain and ordinary. But now, for some reason, it tasted richer, with a subtle sweetness she hadn’t noticed before.
“Make sure to eat properly while you’re away. I worked hard to get your stomach back in shape—you can’t let bad habits undo all that progress.”
“I know, don’t worry. I’ll be careful,” Collin assured her.
Then, with curiosity, he asked, “What’s on your plate today? Maybe I’ll steal some meal ideas from you.”
Linsey chuckled and listed the dishes in front of her.
“What? That’s unusually healthy for you,” Collin replied, surprised.
In the past, Linsey’s meals always included something fried or indulgent. But today, everything she mentioned was unexpectedly light and nutritious. He hadn’t seen that coming.
Linsey paused, caught off guard by his keen observation. She hesitated before responding, “I just felt like eating something lighter today.”
Collin playfully teased, “But Dolores likes strong flavors too. Did you two make a pact to switch things up?”
Linsey faltered for a second. She was never great at hiding things from Collin. She glanced at Dolores, who shot her a questioning look.
Dolores mouthed, “What’s going on?”
Linsey quickly muted the call and whispered, “He thinks it’s strange that we’re eating so clean today.”
“Just be honest. It’s not a bad thing,” Dolores suggested without hesitation.
Linsey considered it for a moment and realized that Dolores made a good point. She unmuted the phone and said, “Collin, there’s something I need to tell you.”
His voice was soft, full of warmth. “What is it?”
A nervous flutter filled Linsey’s chest. She had planned to wait and tell him in person once he was back. But since he had noticed, she couldn’t bring herself to keep it from him any longer.
“You were wondering why I chose such a light meal, right? Well, the reason is…”
Linsey had barely begun speaking when a woman’s voice suddenly rang out from Collin’s end. “Mr. Riley, why are you hiding here? Let’s have dinner together tonight.”
