Back in Time to Fall for Him novel Chapter 85

The Goodwin residence stood halfway up Cresendia Hill in the western suburbs of Ardelisse. It rested against the mountain ridge, facing a natural lake enclosed within the manor's private grounds.

Owning such prime land in Ardelisse required more than wealth—it required power.

Madison sighed inwardly, pulling her gaze from the window and adjusting her clothes. The closer the car drew to the Goodwin residence, the more anxious she became.

It wasn't her first visit there. She had already managed to offend nearly every member of the family once before, but this time felt different.

Her identity wasn't the same, and neither were her intentions.

Her fidgeting soon caught Sam's eye. He noticed her tugging at her sleeve, frowning for a moment before looking anxious. He could easily guess what was going through her mind.

"Don't be nervous. You've got me." His deep, resonant voice filled the car.

Madison turned her head instinctively and met his dark eyes. Somehow, in that instant, her unease dissolved.

…

Soon, they arrived at the Goodwin residence. Madison followed Sam into the living room, where the entire family had already gathered.

"Grandpa." Sam remained calm and indifferent as he greeted William, who was sitting at the head of the room.

Then, Sam turned to the others. "Uncle Simon, Aunt Yelena."

Since then, their marriage had been a constant cycle of arguments—small spats every few days, blow-ups every ten. Yet neither ever mentioned divorce, tangled together even to this day.

While Madison was lost in thought, a deep, lecturing voice broke the silence. "Sam, is that any way to speak to your aunt?"

She looked up. The speaker was Simon Goodwin, William's eldest son and Sam's uncle. Nearly 50 but well-groomed, he looked barely 40. Dressed in a black casual suit, his hair neatly combed back, and his expression stern, he carried himself with authority.

But Madison knew better. No matter how he tried to act tough, Simon was all bark and no bite in front of Sam.

Sure enough, Sam shot him a glance and said coolly, "Do you have a problem with that?"

The look in his eyes seemed to warn Simon to keep his opinions to himself.