Chapter 4: The Madelyn of the Past

The sun blazed. Madelyn eagerly exited the black Rolls-Royce and entered a nearby Clusian restaurant, pulling the man behind her. It was a favorite; though she’d only dined there once, the authenticity of the food had left a lasting impression. The local cuisine was renowned for its genuine flavors. Handing the menu to Sebastian across the table, she said, “You choose. I find it difficult to decide.”

Sebastian nonchalantly selected seven or eight dishes. They arrived swiftly. Madelyn began to eat, but after a few bites, she was shocked. Every dish was a favorite of hers. Her heart leaped; she nearly wept. He remembered all her favorite foods! But I don’t know his preferences at all! she thought. How I wish I could slap myself!

Noticing she’d stopped, Sebastian tasted his food. “Why did you stop? Don’t you like it?”

Madelyn sniffled. “No, it’s delicious.” She resumed eating, distractedly watching him. Sebastian grew uncomfortable under her gaze. Setting down his fork, he frowned. “Come on, spill it. What are you really up to? Playing hardball isn’t working, so now you’re trying a roundabout approach?”

Madelyn was speechless. I’m just trying to discover his favorite foods. But she remained silent; his skepticism stemmed from her own past misdeeds. Even if she told the truth, he wouldn't believe her.

Instead, she changed the subject. “I’m returning to Lockhart Villa tonight. Would you… like to come with me?”

Sebastian was shocked. Madelyn would usually avoid Lockhart Villa. He concluded she had ulterior motives. He stood abruptly, his tone cold. “No matter what you’re planning, you won’t succeed! I will never agree!” He turned and left.

Madelyn sighed. I was too eager. Too abrupt. I’ll need to take things one step at a time.

After dinner, Madelyn returned to Lockhart Villa. It felt like an eternity since her last return after her death. Yet, the past remained vividly clear. She nodded with a friendly smile to Lydia, the butler. Lydia stood frozen in shock. Madelyn smiled, said nothing, and ascended the stairs.

Opening her bedroom door, a warm feeling filled her heart. The familiar décor mirrored her room at the Thornton residence. Sebastian had clearly put thought into it; she’d been unappreciative in the past.

Her reminiscing was interrupted by a ringing phone. It was Janessa. “Madelyn, where are you?”

Madelyn didn’t lie. “At Lockhart Villa.”

A pause, then Janessa’s voice sharpened. “Why are you there? What are you thinking?”

Madelyn sneered. “It’s my marital home. It’s only natural. Besides, I can’t go home. Father would send me back here.”

Janessa’s grip tightened on her phone. Something is definitely wrong with Madelyn. More time with Sebastian—that’s the last thing I want.

Her gaze hardened. “Of course. You misunderstood. I called to tell you about the class reunion tomorrow; Christopher will be there.”

Madelyn scoffed inwardly. Janessa is nervous. If I remember correctly, she set me up after a few drinks at the alumni gathering. I ended up in a hotel room with Christopher; Sebastian caught us. The Thorntons and Lockharts became involved; the elders intervened.

She’s trying the same trick again, huh? she thought. The old Madelyn is gone. I’ll play along.