Chapter 317: Adore Him the Most

The following day, Derek regained consciousness in the afternoon. After a checkup revealed no serious issues, the doctor advised discharge, emphasizing the need for rest and recuperation. "Remember, it's crucial not to stress the patient further," he said. Madelyn nodded her thanks. Sebastian then assisted with the discharge procedures while Madelyn helped Derek sit up.

Once they were ready, they all went home. At the Thornton residence, Madelyn helped Derek to the couch, and Sebastian sat nearby. The family enjoyed a heartwarming conversation.

As evening approached, Madelyn, in high spirits, donned an apron and began preparing dinner. After washing the ingredients, she neatly arranged the clean beef on a chopping board, cutting it into even cubes before placing them in a spotless white porcelain bowl.

Once the ingredients were ready, Madelyn lit the stove, adding blended oil to the pan. When the oil bubbled, she added the diced beef, intermittently adding seasonings and starch. Derek watched, filled with surprise and delight.

He entered the kitchen, asking, "Maddie, when did you learn to cook?"

Madelyn chuckled mischievously, "What's the big deal? I know a lot of things you don't know."

Derek expressed some regret, "Indeed, you've grown up and can't stay by my side every day. I didn't even know when you learned to cook." He was pleased, however, noting her developing femininity. His thoughts turned to Grace, his late wife, who had also enjoyed preparing meals for their family. The memory brought a wave of profound regret, a sentiment that lingered. He couldn't resist the pull of nostalgia.

Derek then unexpectedly said, "After all, you two are only engaged. Why not pick a date, get your marriage certificate, and have the wedding ceremony?"

Madelyn was bewildered. Marriage was on her mind, but she was still studying, Sebastian was busy, and they hadn't discussed it properly. She deflected, "Dad, it's still early to talk about marriage. There's no need to rush."

Derek disagreed. "Maddie, it's only natural for people in love to get married. Besides, I'll be more at ease if you settle down sooner."

Madelyn was embarrassed, "However, this isn't a minor matter. Shouldn't it require considerable long-term preparation?"

Derek's suspicion grew. "These are all just excuses! Someone who truly wants to get married can always find the time. Is Sebastian not willing to marry you?"

Madelyn clarified, "Of course, that's not the case! I just feel like it might be a bit too early…"

Derek responded matter-of-factly, "What's so early about it? You're about to graduate, and Sebastian has reached the age where he should be settling down. Isn't getting married perfectly normal?"

Madelyn remained hesitant. Derek's gaze intensified, "Maddie, be honest with me. Are you still unable to forget Christopher?"

Madelyn was speechless. "Dad, what on earth are you talking about?" She had largely forgotten about Christopher and no longer had feelings for him.

She expressed her discontent, "Dad, there's no need for wild guesses. I have a handle on my own affairs. Don't worry."

Derek sighed, "I've watched you grow up. You've always been stubborn, clinging to things you can't have. But Sebastian is a good man, worth dedicating your life to. Stop wasting your time on Christopher, and don't let Sebastian down."

Unbeknownst to them, Sebastian was outside the door, his calm expression darkening as he overheard their conversation. He had been about to check on them but froze upon hearing his name.

"Can Christopher even compare to Sebastian? He's nowhere near Sebastian's level, all right?" Derek mused.

"You used to adore him, no?" Derek was puzzled, recalling Madelyn's previous refusal of an engagement for Christopher.

Madelyn admitted, "All right... There was a time when I was blind to reality and had a brief infatuation with Christopher. But I'm not blind anymore. I can clearly see how wonderful Sebastian is. So, Dad, don't worry anymore." She continued, "Actually, I feel that since I haven't yet graduated from university and still have a lot to learn, coupled with company issues, I want to take over the company first. I'll get married once everything has settled down. Besides, marriage is merely a formality. Sebastian is already mine. He's not going anywhere. So, why the rush?"

She laughed, "As for Christopher, I wouldn't even remember what kind of outsider he was if you hadn't mentioned him."

Derek breathed a sigh of relief. "All right. It's good to know you're thinking this way."

Madelyn nodded, "All right, stop worrying about me unnecessarily. Let's, first and foremost, enjoy our meal and focus on improving your health!"

She went to serve the meal, only to find Sebastian gone. "Where's Sebastian?" she asked, puzzled.

The butler stepped forward, "Mr. Lockhart has just left."

Derek was puzzled, "What happened?"