Chapter 7: Her Meticulously Crafted Plan

Sebastian swiftly pocketed his phone, grabbed his keys, and strode purposefully toward the hotel. If anything happened to her, if a single hair on her head was harmed, Christopher would face dire consequences.

Meanwhile, Madelyn had quietly left the private room, but instead of going to the restroom, she slipped into a secluded hallway corner. It didn't take long to spot Christopher discreetly following her. After watching her leave, he cautiously looked around before entering the ladies' restroom. This was precisely as Madelyn anticipated. She knew Janessa's manipulative schemes from their past. Janessa had previously orchestrated a scene where Madelyn ended up in Christopher's arms while intoxicated, strategically booked a room, and ensured Sebastian witnessed the drama. By now, Sebastian was undoubtedly on his way.

Shortly afterward, Janessa appeared. Madelyn watched from the shadows, a sneer playing on her lips. It was almost pathetic how she had once considered Janessa her closest friend. Given the effort Janessa had expended, Madelyn decided not to let it go to waste. She sent a text to Christopher: "Christopher, I'm feeling awful and drunk. Could you come to Room 6318?"

Room 6318? Receiving the message, Christopher retrieved the room key Janessa had given him earlier. The number matched Madelyn's text. Everything seemed to be in order. He mused, Given how she looked today, I thought she'd dismiss me, thinking she's beyond my reach. But this message suggests she still hasn't forgotten me! Elated, he headed to the room.

Their plan was set. Janessa and Madelyn both awaited Sebastian's arrival.

Fifteen minutes later, a gleaming luxury sedan pulled up sharply under the hotel awning. Sebastian emerged, his presence commanding and radiating authority. Anxiety and displeasure flickered across his face, but his inherent charisma remained, reminiscent of a born leader. Janessa, having been at the hotel for some time, was confident in her preparations. Seeing Sebastian, she approached him quickly. "Sebastian! You're finally here. I just knocked, but there was no answer. Sebastian, it's a man and a woman alone… do you think they might have… well, you know…"

Sebastian's already stormy expression darkened. He immediately summoned the hotel manager. The manager felt a chill upon seeing Sebastian.

"Lead the way."

Three words that sent shivers down the manager's spine. Recognizing the Lockhart family's authority, he quickly led them to the room.

The door clicked open. Janessa imagined scandalous scenes unfolding inside. Madelyn and Christopher must be together. Their reputations are ruined!

But Christopher was alone, in a bathrobe, sipping red wine. The intrusion startled him. "Who's there!" Madelyn was nowhere to be found!

Janessa was visibly shaken. According to my plan, they should have been caught! How is this possible…

"Where is she?" Sebastian's gaze shifted to Janessa, his icy stare sending tremors through her.

Janessa, flustered, gritted her teeth. No way! Where is Madelyn? She should be here! I… "She must be in the bathroom!" she declared, rushing to the bathroom. It was empty, filled only with lingering steam. Confusion clouded her mind. How could someone vanish?

Her composure shattered, she turned to Christopher, her voice sharp. "Christopher, where's Madelyn? Weren't you supposed to bring her here?"

Christopher replied, "I never brought her in here." He'd planned to orchestrate a scene, but in his haste, he hadn't even seen Madelyn.

Sebastian's penetrating look sent shivers down Janessa's spine. Without a word, he turned to leave, leaving Janessa feeling desperate. She hurried after him. "Sebastian, don't be mad. I swear I saw it. Please believe me…"

But Sebastian remained indifferent.

At that moment, Madelyn appeared in the corridor, surprising everyone. Spotting Sebastian, her face lit up, and she ran to him, throwing her arms around him. "Darling, what brings you here? Did you come to pick me up?" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with childlike innocence.

Sebastian was taken aback. Is that really Madelyn? And what did she call me? Darling? Did I mishear? This affectionate gesture was jarring, considering Madelyn's usual disdain for closeness and formal demeanor.

Janessa was equally surprised.

"Weren't you drunk?" Sebastian asked, gently detaching Madelyn.

With a puzzled look, Madelyn replied, "I'm not drunk; who said I was? I've had a drink, but I'm far from intoxicated. If you don't believe me, ask me what one plus one equals; I won't get it wrong, hehe." Her playful smile was radiant, her innocence apparent.

Sebastian, relieved, sighed.

Janessa approached cautiously. "Madelyn, where were you? I was so worried, I thought you…"

Madelyn, sensing insincerity, responded coolly, "I told you I was going to the restroom, didn't I? What's the problem?"

Janessa's face flushed, then paled.

Despite Madelyn's calm, something felt off. The dynamic between her and Sebastian had drastically shifted. Madelyn had previously wished for Sebastian to disappear, due to her affection for Christopher. Yet now, she warmly embraced him, calling him "Darling."

This isn't normal!

If looks could kill, Janessa's glare would have been lethal, filled with envy and rage. She harbored feelings for Sebastian but never dared express them. How could Madelyn be so intimate with him? This was supposed to be my place beside Sebastian. Who does Madelyn think she is!

Madelyn was acutely aware of Janessa's dark expression, noting the turmoil in her eyes. That look, that wicked stare, reminded her of an evil fairy tale witch. How could I have been so blind not to see this side of Janessa before?