Betrayed by the Father Reborn in His Rival's Arms novel Chapter 304

He glanced at her, reaching out to tuck a stray lock of hair, damp with cold sweat, behind her ear. His fingertips brushed against her cheek, leaving his usual warm, dry touch.

"Did that scare you?"

Madeline shook her head, then nodded, finally answering honestly, "A little. But I'm okay."

"You won't have to see scenes like this often. We'll be heading back to the States soon," he murmured, his gaze looking incredibly deep in the dimly lit cabin.

His tone held no threat or warning; it was simply a calm statement of fact.

"You are my woman. Targeting you means targeting me.

If I didn't wipe out Bartori today, some other blind fool would try their luck tomorrow."

Madeline fell silent for a few seconds before tilting her head to look him straight in the eyes.

She thought back to the auction hall earlier tonight, to the effortless indulgence in his voice when he said, 'Buy it if you like it.' She remembered the breathtaking green light cutting through the stone, and the way he leaned against the table, naturally caging her in his arms. It wasn't a show of wealth, nor a performance—he truly, thoroughly treated her as his own.

"I'm not afraid," she said.

Quentin stared at her for a moment, and then a smile broke across his face.

It wasn't his usual lazy, condescending smirk, but a genuine, heartfelt smile.

He reached over and pulled her into his embrace. Resting his chin against the top of her head, his chest vibrated slightly as he lowered his voice, speaking just for her:

"Alright. Let's go."

The convoy started up again, crushing the scattered bullet casings and bypassing the groveling bandits as it drove toward the city at the base of the mountain.

He stopped right beside her. Then, his strong arms scooped her up effortlessly, and she tumbled into that familiar, broad, and warm embrace, instantly enveloped by his unique, intoxicating scent.

Madeline loved it. She even found herself tilting her head up to initiate a kiss, but misjudging the angle, her lips only grazed his jaw.

Quentin tilted his head back slightly, making it easier for her to reach him.

Even though it wasn't a full kiss, it clearly brought him immense joy.

When she pulled away, Madeline whispered softly.

"Are you hungry? I don't know what came over me, I practically dozed off. What do you want for a late-night snack? I'll make you something right now. What are you craving?"

"As long as you make it, I'll love anything."