Chapter 357: She Will Not Be Honest

“Dad, Madelyn, please, I beg you to forgive me,” Eunice pleaded, tears suddenly welling in her eyes. Her intermittent sobs were heartbreaking.

Derek sighed, his heart softening toward his youngest daughter. He began, “Eunice, have you truly repented? Your mother—”

Before he could finish, Eunice interrupted, “Dad, stop bringing up Mom. I admit I was at fault. I let Mom manipulate me, but I promise it won’t happen again. You have no idea the terror I felt when that vehicle was heading toward you. I’d risk my life rather than see you harmed. After everything, don’t you believe me?”

Seeing her father hesitant, Eunice played her trump card. The moment Derek recalled her blocking the vehicle, he was deeply moved. “Alright,” he said. “To recognize one’s mistakes and make amends is the greatest virtue. As long as you’re sincerely sorry, we are still a family.”

“Mmm-hmm!” Eunice nodded obediently.

Madelyn watched, letting out a cold, derisive chuckle. Even though her father was deceived, she certainly wasn't. How could Eunice just happen to be at the company building, conveniently blocking the car? Madelyn refused to believe it wasn't part of an elaborate plan. However, she observed with detached indifference, choosing not to expose any falsehoods. She was curious to see what Eunice had up her sleeve.

She then spoke, “Dad, since Eunice has sincerely apologized, why don’t we let her come back home? After all, it’s not safe for a girl to live outside.”

Derek nodded. “Alright then. Eunice, you should move back home today. As long as you behave yourself, I’ll pretend the past never happened.”

“Thank you, Dad. Thank you, Madelyn.” Eunice nodded, feigning deep emotion. Nevertheless, she rejoiced inwardly, eager to share her success with Kieran.

“Alright, since everything’s been sorted out, I’ll be taking my leave now,” Madelyn said, turning and leaving.

In the evening, at Lockhart Group, Madelyn had bought two takeout meals for dinner with Sebastian.

Just as she was about to enter the office, Malcolm stopped her. “Mrs. Lockhart, Ms. Moore is presenting her report. Please wait a moment.”

“Is that so?” Madelyn replied.

Realizing her takeout would get cold, she snorted dismissively. “I don’t care,” she said, striding inside.

Malcolm shook his head. Mrs. Lockhart is truly willful.

Upon entering, Madelyn realized Harriet wasn't reporting; the desserts on the table were clearly Harriet's work. Meanwhile, Harriet and Sebastian had spotted Madelyn. Sebastian’s expression softened, while Harriet’s face darkened. Harriet had been preparing to let Sebastian taste the desserts she’d made. Sebastian was ready to try them, but Madelyn's arrival interrupted. Harriet was frustrated.

“What were you guys talking about?” Madelyn asked, setting down the takeout. Her eyes twinkled as she moved closer to the desserts. “Wow, these look delicious,” she exclaimed. “May I have one?”

The color drained from Harriet’s face. It was something she’d meticulously prepared for Sebastian. However, she managed a smile and said, “Since you’re so interested, Ms. Thornton, go ahead.”

Madelyn laughed. “Harriet, you’re truly amazing. How did you know I was hungry?” With a beaming smile, she picked up several pieces and ate them unabashedly.

“Wow, this is delicious. Harriet, your cooking skills are amazing! Could you teach me sometime? That way, I could make it for Sebastian every day.”

Madelyn promptly devoured the rest, leaving not a crumb. “Um, I’m really sorry, Harriet. The food you made was just too delicious, and I accidentally finished it all without realizing it.”

Feigning an apology, Madelyn belched contentedly. She patted her stomach and said, “I guess this is for the best. Sebastian doesn’t like sweet stuff anyway.”

While Sebastian hid his smile behind a calm facade, he subtly nodded. The color drained from Harriet's face; her expression broke, and her teeth clenched. This damned Madelyn had crossed the line!

Harriet hastily reported her work and left. Once she was gone, Madelyn laughed heartily. “That was hilarious, hahaha!”

Sebastian watched, a smile tugging at his lips. His voice remained icy. “So, you’re quite pleased with your prank, aren’t you?”

“Of course,” Madelyn retorted haughtily. “She had it coming for trying to seduce my man. I’m not going to let her succeed!” She beckoned Sebastian. “By the way, I got us some takeout. Let’s eat.”

They shared a meal. Having eaten many pastries, Madelyn couldn't eat anymore and related the day's events to Sebastian.

“Sebastian, what do you think is really going on with my stepsister? I feel like she isn’t as innocent as she seems.”

Sebastian remained impassive. “Since we don’t know what she’s planning, let’s just wait and see.”

Madelyn nodded. “I was thinking the same thing. However, no matter what she’s planning, I won’t let her get away with it easily.”

Regina and Eunice had pulled out all the stops, but Madelyn wasn't afraid. She was ready to face whatever came her way.

The following day, Eunice was discharged from the hospital. When Madelyn arrived at the Thornton residence, she saw Eunice practicing walking in the yard with a walking stick. Their father supported her, and they chatted and laughed, creating a harmonious atmosphere.