Chapter 2010: Mustered Her Courage

Jonathan instantly recognized the man: Madilyn's biological father, a man she intensely disliked and refused to discuss. He was the man who abandoned his wife and daughter to marry another, furthering his own ambitions.

"He's Norton Sheffield, chairman of the Southern Star Group in Xandenia. You've surely heard of him—a prominent figure in the business world. But to me, he's nothing but trash!" Madilyn gritted her teeth, her eyes bloodshot.

The woman with Norton was Mildred Hinton, of the Hinton family—the despicable bully who had oppressed Madilyn and Lorraine. After learning of Madilyn's birth, Mildred considered her Norton's illegitimate child, a curse. This resulted in Madilyn's deprived childhood, preventing her from attending school like other children. Mildred actively interfered, determined to drive Madilyn and Lorraine away, even bringing her daughters to bully them and destroy their belongings. Though Norton occasionally visited and gave them money as a child, Mildred always took it.

Fortunately, Madilyn was strong and independent. Lorraine worked tirelessly to support Madilyn's education, and Madilyn herself took odd jobs in high school to pay for her tuition. For university, Lorraine sent Madilyn to Horington to escape Xandenia and its disturbances. Lorraine, however, suffered years of mental anguish, impacting her health, with Norton offering no assistance. Only after Madilyn brought Lorraine to Horington did Roxanne save her life.

Jonathan knew Norton's influence. His business success in Xandenia was impressive, earning him a place among the country's top ten businessmen. However, Jonathan disapproved of his methods. Business in Xandenia was fraught with under-the-table dealings.

"Why? Why did you take my mother? Norton, Mildred, why are you haunting us when we've avoided you?" Madilyn cried, her anger morphing into helplessness.

Jonathan's expression hardened. He took her hand, pulled her into his arms, and held her close, patting her back reassuringly. "I'm here now, don't worry. As long as I'm around, no one can bully you or Mdm. Xander!"

His soothing voice released Madilyn's pent-up emotions. Years of sorrow and grievance flooded out. Tears streamed down her face as she clung to him, crying uncontrollably.

"It's okay. Everything will be fine. I'll handle everything, even confronting Norton. I'm not afraid of him! No one can bully you, my love!" Jonathan continued to comfort her.

His words warmed her heart. After a while, she calmed, regaining her composure. A surge of courage filled her.

"He'll call again. I'm sure he took Mom to make me do something." Madilyn thought rationally.

Jonathan nodded. "Let's wait for his call."