Chapter 349: Will Not Do It Again

Sebastian shuddered, taken aback. He had received news the previous night that Madelyn was scheduled to return, so he arranged to return on the same day. To his surprise, Madelyn threw herself into his arms as soon as he landed, showering him with kisses without shame.

Feeling awkward, Malcolm turned away, pretending to see nothing. “Tell me, have you missed me?” Madelyn cooed, clinging to Sebastian like an octopus. Her clear eyes were fixated on him, sparkling with joy. Sebastian’s heart skipped a beat. He gently patted her back. “Easy now. Come down first.”

“No, I don’t want to!” Madelyn nestled into Sebastian’s embrace like a child. “All I want is to cling to you. Do you have any idea how much I’ve missed you these past few days? I’ve missed you so much, it’s almost driving me crazy.”

Sebastian’s lips curled into a smile. What am I going to do with her?

Meanwhile, Wesley and Harriet, who had come to pick Sebastian up from the airport, arrived to witness this scene. Wesley cleared his throat awkwardly. “That’s enough, you two. We’re in a public place. There are many people watching.” He was right. The two were closely entwined, portraying the image of a deeply in-love couple. Their intimacy was almost palpable, drawing curious glances from passersby.

Harriet didn’t say a word, but a shadow of gloom, along with a faint trace of jealousy, passed through her eyes. “They didn’t give you a hard time, did they?” Sebastian asked. “Of course they did. It would have been strange if they hadn’t,” Madelyn replied, wearing a pitiful expression. Morgana insisted she wouldn’t harm her, but she still threatened her. However, Madelyn refrained from details, simply pouting, “If it weren’t for my quick thinking, I might not have made it out alive.”

Sebastian heaved a sigh of relief, wrapping his left arm around her waist while patting her back with his right hand, consoling her, “I’m glad you’re safe.” Madelyn obediently nodded.

Meanwhile, Phantom, who had witnessed this from a distance, smiled faintly. Since his job was done, he quietly turned and left.

Sebastian observed Phantom’s retreating figure, his gaze gloomy. However, he said nothing and proceeded to coax Madelyn, who was still clinging to him. “There, there. Come on down first.”

“No! Just a little while more. Please?” she pleaded. Sebastian was actually quite pleased, but continued to soothe her. “Be good. Let’s go home first. Your dad’s really worried about you.”

“Um… Okay then.” Madelyn finally nodded. However, when she jumped down, she still planted a kiss on his face. Sebastian flashed a faint, helpless smile. Following that, Madelyn linked arms with Sebastian, and they left happily.

Madelyn noticed Wesley and Harriet as she left with Sebastian, but she lifted her chin proudly, ignoring them. The young couple got into the car and headed straight for the Thornton residence.

Harriet stood rooted to the spot, watching them go. The thought of Madelyn’s smug demeanor made her clench her fists. Resentment and disappointment brewed in her eyes. Wesley was also left speechless. He was thinking he owed Madelyn an apology, but it seemed that would have to wait.

The car came to a halt at the Thornton residence. The couple alighted and walked hand in hand through the gate. Right then, Derek was sitting on the couch restlessly, worried about his missing daughter.

“Dad, I’m back!” A cheerful voice echoed behind him. He was surprised to see Madelyn. His face lit up with joy. However, as soon as an involuntary smile graced his face, it was replaced by a stern expression. He rebuked, “How can you be so reckless? Even if you were upset, you could’ve at least informed us before leaving. You just upped and left for a trip without saying a word, and we couldn’t find you anywhere. Do you want me to worry to death?”

Madelyn was puzzled. What? A trip? Since when did I ever go on a trip? Sebastian’s expression turned awkward. In reality, he had fabricated this story to put Derek at ease.

Clearing his throat, he stepped in to mediate. “Dad, Madelyn has realized her mistake. She definitely won’t do that again. Please don’t be angry anymore.” Madelyn immediately understood. She sheepishly approached her father and grinned, “Dad, I know I messed up this time, but I promise it won’t happen again in the future. Okay?”

“Hmph? You promise? Your promise means nothing.” Derek spoke with irritation. “If Sebastian hadn’t informed me about your whereabouts in time, I would have been worried sick. How can you be so mischievous? This can’t happen again!”

Madelyn continued to smile cheekily, “I’m sorry, Dad. But rest assured, I will keep my word. You’ve always been nice to me. How could I have the heart to worry you?” She tugged at his sleeve, pleading, “Dad, just trust me this once.” The look in her eyes was pitiful, as if she were utterly distressed.

Derek took a deep breath and couldn’t bring himself to stay mad. He spoke, putting on a fierce facade. “Since you’re safe and sound, I’ll forgive you this time. I’m glad you’re back. But you must never do this again, do you hear me? If you don’t listen to me, I’ll really get mad.”

Not at all intimidated by his fierce look, Madelyn smiled and responded, “Okay, okay. I’ll never make you mad again.” Derek was satisfied. “You’ve just gotten off the plane and haven’t eaten yet. Why don’t you eat at home before you leave?”