Chapter 311: Nothing Short of Genuine

“Daddy,” Madelyn sniffed. “I remember, even in my previous life. Dad always cared deeply for me, but his actions indirectly caused his tragic demise. I won’t repeat the same mistakes.”

With that thought in mind, Madelyn lunged forward, tightly hugging her father. “I obey you from now on and won’t talk back. I will diligently learn, share the burden, and never let you work so hard again.”

Derek was comforted by her words. Rather than enduring an unhappy marriage, he found greater contentment in leading a peaceful life with his daughter. That was all he could ask for.

Hence, that afternoon, Derek and Regina went together to process their divorce papers.

“After all these years, our marriage has come to an end. Take good care of yourself from now on,” Derek said at the City Hall entrance, holding the divorce certificate. He sighed and walked away.

Eunice couldn’t hold back her tears. Wailing bitterly, she cried, “Why do you two have to divorce? Why?”

Regina felt sad seeing her daughter cry, but she maintained her composure, comforting her. “Eunice, stop crying. Even if I’m not around anymore, you’re still here, aren’t you?”

“With you gone, I’ll be all alone in the Thornton residence. What am I supposed to do…,” Eunice wept uncontrollably.

“Don’t say that, Eunice!” Regina shook her head, stubbornly persuading her daughter. “Promise me that, as long as you’re still part of the Thornton family, you won’t let the company fall into Madelyn’s hands, okay? Once that bitch takes over, our lives will become unbearable. Who knows what she’ll do to us then? You must be strong, Eunice!”

Her tone was serious. She clearly placed all her hopes on Eunice.

Eunice, understanding her mother’s words, nodded earnestly. “Mom, I will definitely work hard and prevent Madelyn from snatching everything!”

As she said that, the last trace of sincerity in her eyes vanished, replaced by a ruthless gaze.

After a brief rest at the Thornton residence, Madelyn prepared to leave for Lockhart Group. At that moment, her cellphone rang.

Glancing at her phone, Madelyn saw it was Septimus. She answered immediately.

“Did something happen in the black market, Mr. Septimus?” Madelyn asked anxiously.

“Generally speaking…” Septimus began.

Chapter 211: Nothing Short of Genuine

Ever since Madelyn clashed with Charlie, Pigeon hadn’t given up easily. He secretly investigated for a long time, finally tracing things back to Madelyn.

However, Madelyn was puzzled. “It’s been a long while since the incident, and didn’t you settle it last time? Why is there still trouble now?”

Septimus sighed. “It’s a long story.”

After Madelyn’s confrontation with Charlie, Septimus seized the opportunity to expose Pigeon’s illicit drug trade. Learning this, the underworld boss immediately revoked Pigeon’s management rights.

Under Septimus’s management, Pigeon no longer had a place in the black market. He had unceremoniously lost his power, a fact he couldn’t stomach. He wanted to investigate, but he was no match for Septimus.

Thus, Pigeon targeted Madelyn, whom he perceived as weak and powerless. For that reason, Septimus called Madelyn to warn her to be cautious.

After listening to the story, Madelyn wasn’t surprised. She simply said, “Thank you, Mr. Septimus, for informing me.”

Septimus was nonchalant. “Ms. Thornton, there’s no need for formality. You only caught Pigeon’s attention because of me. If you ever need help, don’t hesitate to ask.”

“All right,” Madelyn said, hanging up.

Although Madelyn heightened her guard, she didn’t dwell on it. She believed what was destined to happen would happen. Worrying wouldn’t change anything, so she put it out of her mind.

Madelyn then set off for Lockhart Group. On the way, she bought two packed lunches to have with Sebastian in his office.

After finishing her meal, Madelyn immediately returned to studying management, not wasting a moment.

Halfway through, Wesley knocked and entered. Seeing Madelyn, he furrowed his brows.

Madelyn scoffed and ignored him.

Wesley then updated Sebastian on the overseas branches. “Sebastian, the situation with our foreign companies is quite good now, and most issues have been resolved. When do you plan to arrange for Harriet’s return?”

Madelyn narrowed her eyes, glancing at Sebastian.

“But…” Wesley began, clearly wanting to say more.

However, he sighed and lowered his head. “Forget it. I’ll be leaving.”

He departed from the office. Just then, his phone rang. It was Harriet. He answered.

“Wesley, did you ask what I requested? What did Sebastian say?” Harriet asked anxiously.

Wesley, not wanting to upset Harriet, forced a smile. “Sebastian said it won’t be long, you just need to wait a little longer.”

Harriet sighed heavily. “Wesley, stop lying. Sebastian doesn’t intend for me to return, does he?”

Wesley felt a pang of sorrow. “Harriet, why do you only see the good in Sebastian, even after all he’s done to you? Why don’t you ever look at the people beside you! My feelings for you are nothing short of genuine.”

Harriet chuckled. “If I could choose not to think that way, I would, but… Wesley, do you know? From the moment he saved me as children, I’ve already given my life to him.”