Chapter 5

Upon hearing Madeleine’s words, Isabel’s eyes widened in disbelief. “What the hell are you talking about?” she exclaimed. Isabel knew better than anyone how much Madeleine loved Sullivan. Why else would she have paid for Naomi’s medical expenses for five straight years? Why else would she have patiently stayed by Sullivan’s side despite his cold indifference and rejection? But now, Madeleine was suggesting she set her up with him?

Madeleine replied, “I’m serious. I’m here to discuss a truce. You can stop trying to frame me. I don’t have much time left. I’ll be leaving Sullivan soon. You don’t need to treat me as a rival.”

Although Madeleine seemed sincere, Isabel remained unconvinced. She suspected a trap.

Nevertheless, Madeleine didn’t care if Isabel believed her. All she had to do was act.

…

The next day, before Sullivan left, Madeleine handed him a ticket to an amusement park. “I bought two tickets,” she said. “Come with me tonight.”

His expression icy, Sullivan said, “I’m busy with the project—”

Madeleine cut him off. “When we started this arrangement, it was stated that besides having sex with me every day, you’re also not allowed to refuse my requests.”

That stopped Sullivan’s protest. Frowning, he took the ticket but hurried off. Once he was gone, Madeleine called Isabel, who answered immediately.

Skipping pleasantries, Madeleine said, “You got the ticket I sent? I’ve given Sullivan the other one. Get dressed up. It’s your chance to spend time alone with him.”

Isabel hadn’t expected Madeleine to be serious. Still doubtful, she hummed in acknowledgment. But before Madeleine could hang up, Isabel asked, “Why are you helping me?”

Madeleine was silent a moment, then said, “You don’t need to know. Just hold up your end of the bargain. I’ll create opportunities for you two, and in exchange, you’ll stop framing me.”

After ending the call, Madeleine stared at her phone, Isabel’s question echoing in her mind. Why was she helping Isabel? She wasn’t. She was helping herself. In any case, Isabel was the one Sullivan loved. Madeleine only wanted to expedite things and ensure she didn’t meet a tragic end.

The sky was dark when Madeleine received an update from Isabel—a photo of Sullivan and Isabel. Isabel looked at the camera; Sullivan gazed at her adoringly. Madeleine had never seen that expression on Sullivan’s face. For five years, she’d wanted a photo with him, but he’d always claimed to hate photos.

Alas, nothing mattered as much as love. Even principles could be broken.

Madeleine scrolled through the other photos. One caught her eye. They were in a restaurant; a pile of shelled prawns sat before Sullivan. For years, Madeleine had peeled prawns for Sullivan. He’d never done it for her.

The photos showed the warmth and affection she’d longed for. She sat silently before typing a reply to Isabel.

“How nice. You two look good together.”