Chapter 26: Feisty

Madelyn’s subtle actions, coupled with her endearing tone, made her seem like the perfect wife. She no longer behaved like a willful, spoiled young lady. A sense of inexplicable warmth filled Sebastian’s heart. That surge of warmth pierced through the darkness and reached the depths of his heart, providing him with a sense of relaxation. Having not eaten all day, Sebastian was indeed feeling quite hungry, so he joined her on the couch.

However, his gaze fell upon her bandaged hand. Grabbing her hand worriedly, Sebastian asked in a deep voice, “What happened to your hand?” Madelyn reacted swiftly, pulling her hand back in an instant. She smiled nonchalantly and said, “Oh, this? Don’t worry about it. I accidentally cut myself while trimming my nails.”

Another lie! Sebastian gazed deeply at Madelyn but didn’t plan to probe any further. Instead, he picked up his cutlery and began eating. The packed lunch consisted of a steak with a selection of refreshing sides, complemented by mushroom sauce and pasta.

As Sebastian ate, he noticed that the flavor was somewhat different from what Lydia usually prepared. The meals prepared by Lydia were always known to be light and pleasing to the palate. This steak, on the other hand, surprisingly had a hint of milky aroma, which made him yearn for more.

Madelyn watched Sebastian enjoy his meal without a word and grew curious. “What do you think, Sebastian? Does it taste good?” This must be a new dish Lydia has just learned. It’s not bad. Sebastian didn’t think too much of it and merely nodded in response. Madelyn’s face lit up with joy. “I’m glad you like it!”

Since he likes it, I’ll make more for him in the future! I can make him anything he likes. Not just steaks, but also fish and shrimp. After finishing his meal, Sebastian, who had been starving all day, finally recovered his strength. At that moment, he turned to her and said, “You should head back to Lockhart Villa first. I still have work to do.” He then returned to his seat.

Madelyn felt sorry for him upon seeing him work so hard. She frowned, asking, “It’s late, and you’re still not done?” Sebastian simply nodded, facing the computer expressionlessly. “If you’re feeling tired, you should head home first. I have some urgent matters to attend to. They must be resolved tonight.”

Madelyn bit her lip and fell into deep thought. In the end, she declared, “I’m not leaving.” Sebastian cast her a puzzled glance. “Why aren’t you leaving?”

“You’ve been working so hard to provide for us. How could I just go home and sleep? I’m not leaving. I’ll stay right here with you. We’ll go home together when you finish your work.” Madelyn settled on the couch, having made up her mind.

Though Sebastian was touched, he still disapproved of her decision. “Stop messing around. Go on home. You’ll only hamper my productivity by being here. It’s better if you go home and rest. I’ll return once I’m done working.”

“…” Madelyn pursed her lips in frustration, but since Sebastian had put it that way, she could only comply. He’s tired enough as it is. I should stop being so stubborn and avoid causing him any more trouble.

Therefore, Madelyn obediently put on her shoes and stood up. “I guess I’ll head back first then.” Sebastian nodded slightly, and Madelyn left.

She strolled aimlessly along the bustling streets. It was hard to get a taxi, perhaps due to the late hour. Bored, she wandered back and forth along the roadside. As she waited for a taxi, her mind was filled with countless random thoughts. I wonder when will Sebastian return home. I’m just so heartbroken seeing him so exhausted.

Lost in her thoughts, Madelyn was oblivious to the danger that was creeping upon her. “Well, hello there, pretty lady. What are you doing here all alone?” By the time Madelyn processed what was happening, a few thugs had already sauntered up to her, blocking her path.

Snapping back to her senses, Madelyn took a look at the few thugs around her and became alert. “Who are you?” “We’re your friends, of course. What do you think? Want to hang out with us?” The thugs exchanged glances, their lecherous grins spreading across their faces.

One of the thugs lifted Madelyn’s chin teasingly. Madelyn turned her face away, her expression hardening. “Keep your hands to yourself!” “You sure are feisty! I do have a thing for women like you.” One of the men reached out to cop a feel.

Startled, Madelyn stepped back, hugging herself to protect her body. “What do you think you’re doing?” The thugs cackled sinisterly, and one of them spoke. “What else could we possibly do in the dead of night? Of course, we’re going to do things that will make you feel like you’re on cloud nine.”

Another said, “Don’t worry, pretty lady. Today, it’s all about you. We’ll make sure you’re well taken care of. You’ll certainly have a great time!” They burst into uproarious laughter and simultaneously moved closer to Madelyn. One of them even blew on his hands to warm them up. “Come here. Let me take good care of you.”

Madelyn instantly tensed up, shielding herself with her hands as she yelled, “Don’t come any closer! I advise you to think this through! You’ll regret laying a single finger on me!” However, the thugs were not at all fazed and continued to approach her.

Madelyn was terrified. In her desperation, she suddenly pointed behind them and shouted, “Police!” “Police? Where are the police?” The thugs were instantly flustered. Madelyn seized the opportunity to take off running while they were distracted.

Yet, she couldn’t outrun these people. They soon caught up with her again, and this time, they seized her hands. “Wow, we really didn’t expect you to be quite the trickster. Let’s see where you can run this time. Get her in the car. We must deal with her today!”

Following that, a man grabbed her hand, dragging her toward the car parked nearby. “Let me go! Help! Is anyone there? Help!” Madelyn’s heart sank as she began to scream at the top of her lungs. It’ll be over for me if I were to be taken away.

Meanwhile, across the street, Janessa was sitting in the backseat of a sleek black car. She watched the unfolding scene with a triumphant smile. Madelyn, just give up and accept your fate. I’ll only have a chance to get what I want after destroying you…