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Yvonne continued, “Are you trying to keep Ethan hanging on while also being with Forrest, Madelyn? I’m curious, what’s your true intention? Why not just be honest?”
As Madelyn pondered the situation, she thought, ‘Is this how Yvonne see it? Did Ethan feel the same way when he learned about Forrest and me last night?’
Meeting Yvonne’s gaze directly, Madelyn maintained her composure and responded, “Let me clarify a few things.”
She began to explain, “Who I spend time with and what I choose to do is my personal business. Ethan has been supportive before, and I’m grateful for that. However, it doesn’t mean I’ll simply go along with his feelings for me. If you all believe I should distance myself from him, I’m willing to do so.” She added, “This is a matter concerning your family, and it’s unrelated to me. If you insist on pressuring me to make a choice, I’ll stand by the decision I’ve made now.”
Furthermore, Madelyn recognized her own responsibility toward Forrest. Yet, even if she didn’t, whether she maintained contact with him was not their concern.
Seeing beyond their history, Madelyn came to appreciate Forrest’s true character. She noticed his kind gestures, like feeding stray cats at school and showing gratitude to the doctor. She even witnessed him assisting an elderly woman whose cart was stuck in a puddle, then
continuing on his way as if it were nothing.
Continuing her explanation, Madelyn stated, “Yvonne, I’m not afraid if you decide to inform Ethan about all of this. I have my own plans for life, and nothing will hinder me. My goal is to get into Ventropolis University. I won’t let myself develop feelings for anyone, nor will I waste time on dating. I’ll talk to Ethan and make things clear. As for dinner… you and Zach should enjoy it! I won’t intrude as a third wheel.” 2
With those words, Madelyn turned and walked away, this time without Yvonne attempting to detain her. As she descended the stairs, Forrest leaned against the doorway, his gaze focused
on his shoes.
“Let’s go,” Madelyn said.
Forrest quietly followed in her footsteps.
Later that evening, at seven-thirty, Yvonne settled into the passenger seat of Zach’s car.
Her annoyance still lingered. She voiced her frustration to Zach, recounting the details of her conversation with Madelyn.
“Doesn’t any of this concern you? If Madelyn becomes closer to Forrest, my brother might find out. He could even terminate business cooperation with your family’s company. You need to take action before my brother discovers this.”
Zach’s tone turned cold, “I didn’t come here to listen to this. Where is she?”
“How would I know? Let’s just go eat. I’m really hungry!” Yvonne clicked her seatbelt into place.
A shadow seemed to cross Zach’s expression, and a chill seemed to emanate from him. He released his seatbelt, opened the car door, and stepped out, thinking, ‘Yeah, I do need to take some action.’
“What are you up to?” Yvonne called out, puzzled.
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Inside the library, Madelyn brought out a math paper she had created herself and handed it over to Forrest. The paper had simple problems and was just half a page long.
Usually, finishing it would take around thirty minutes, which was just enough time for her to also commit the Etlinish words to memory and even tackle the Etlinish reading
comprehension.
Not wanting to make Forrest feel pressured, Madelyn refrained from hovering around to observe him work.
After the passing of thirty minutes, whether he completed the paper or not, she would collect it.
Giving the paper a quick look, Madelyn noticed that he hadn’t written down a few of the most basic math formulas.
Ultimately, he achieved a score of twenty points. She noted this in the upper right corner of the
paper. Those twenty points were granted for his effort in attempting each problem.
Madelyn sighed one after another, pondering, “Forrest, what on earth have you been doing these past two years?”
Forrest cast his pen aside, propped his legs on the chair, and leaned back, wearing a smirk.” Just having some fun!”
Madelyn retorted, “Fun?! You’ve been attending classes, at least pay a little attention! Haven’t you realized? The problems I gave you are from the first lesson in the math book. Don’t tell me you haven’t even opened the book.”
“After being classmates for two years, you still don’t understand me?” he replied playfully.
Madelyn reached out as if about to poke his head, locking her gaze with his. She didn’t speak further, her eyes reflecting a different kind of feeling.
Forrest’s expression softened. He extended the index finger of his left hand to lightly tap hers. “We still have half a year left. You can teach me, and I’ll do my best to remember.”
Those two years, apart from the unpleasant moments, the happy memories seemed to be hazy. She lowered her head, masking the emotions in her eyes.
‘Now isn’t the time to dwell on past grievances,’ Madelyn pondered, ‘When the actual exam day arrives, we probably won’t cross paths anymore.’
Madelyn’s voice remained even as she spoke, “It’s not as simple as you think. Who do you think you are? If you struggle with these problems, I can’t even begin to hope for your acceptance into Ventropolis University. I might even consider it a blessing if you manage to secure a spot in any lower-tier colleges.”
She paused, her thoughts racing, ‘Since I started helping him with his studies, I’ve missed out on those after-school classes. If Father finds out, I’ll be in trouble again.”
Uncertain about whether she would return home for the extended holiday, she contemplated, ‘ It’s been quite a while since I’ve had an extended stay at home. Unless the house still isn’t fully renovated, maybe I can escape that situation.’
“Do you truly lack faith in me?”
Madelyn’s inner monologue responded with skepticism, ‘As if I could put my trust in him.’
Resuming her explanation, she picked up a blue pen and stated, “I’ll solve the problems for you, and you need to pay close attention. I’ll walk you through them now. Remember my explanations and retain the information. Also, make sure not to leave your practice book. empty. Complete your assignments on schedule and send me pictures for review once you’re done.”
Forrest had never been fond of overly troublesome tasks, and the prospect of sending her a daily “report” made him grimace. A subtle exasperated sound escaped his lips.
“Hey, Forrest, I’m addressing you. Are you listening?” Madelyn’s tone asserted, “Please take this seriously. You’re my responsibility!”
“Your responsibility? Madelyn Jent, what kind of ‘responsibility’?” A chilling and commanding voice reverberated through the library.
The sudden entrance of Zach, with Yvonne following closely, caught Madelyn off-guard.
Rising from her seat, Madelyn was intimately familiar with Zach’s demeanor. His calm appearance hid his brewing anger.
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Zach’s chilling aura brushed against them.
Yvonne glanced disdainfully at Forrest and remarked, “Madelyn, weren’t you supposed to be helping him with his studies? It looks more like you two are on a date. Don’t tell me you’ve actually fallen for this bastard? Why don’t you ever listen to what I say?” She was so frustrated that she almost stomped her foot.
Noticing the test paper on the table, Yvonne smirked, “Twenty points? Seriously, Forrest? Your inadequacy is the same whether it’s in the Arnold family or at school. You might end up being looked down by my brother throughout your life, like a stepping stone, without much future ahead.”
Forrest, hands in his pockets, toyed with his lighter and chuckled, “At least I’m not in a hurry to please others.”
“How dare you!” Yvonne suddenly approached him and raised her hand.
A sharp sound echoed.
SLAP!
The noise drew the attention of a few library-goers.
“Who do you think you are? How dare you speak to me like that. Just a lowly entertainer’s kid. “Yvonne’s eyes turned fierce, exuding an air of superiority.
“He’s just being himself!” Madelyn replied promptly. Without hesitation, she stepped forward and positioned herself between Forrest and Yvonne. “This is a library, and your behavior is disturbing not only to me, but also to others. Please leave immediately!”
Yvonne’s brow furrowed, “You’re defending him so strongly. Is your attachment to him that deep?” She turned her questioning gaze toward Forrest, “Forrest, what’s your secret in winning her over?”
“I’m standing up for him!” Madelyn affirmed, her hand gripping Forrest’s sleeve, her anxious hold quivering slightly. This was the first time she had defended someone so boldly.
Yvonne countered, “Consider that by doing this, you’re not only challenging me, but also the entire Arnold family. Your family’s standing owes much to Zach. Can your position remain steady? Your choices confuse me; what’s your reasoning?”
“When I was in a dire situation, Forrest came to my rescue. Isn’t that reason enough?” Madelyn’s tone remained composed.
Yvonne hesitated for a moment.
Undeterred, Madelyn pressed on, recounting her memories in front of the gathered onlookers.
“The rain was pouring, a group of people near the shore. Among them, only Forrest
courageously plunged into the water to rescue me from drowning. Yvonne, if you harbor ill feelings toward Forrest, that’s your own concern. But why do you insist on dictating my choices to align with your desires?
“Your influence holds no sway over me, even if you possess wealth and influence!
“And you, Brother!” Madelyn turned gaze at Zach with a smirk. “You understand better than anyone why I fled from this family in the first place. You were present, yet you remained inactive.
“My well-being meant nothing to you.
“In those crucial moments, I had held onto the hope that you’d be there to rescue me. What were your actions then, Brother?
“Did you watch in silence as I faced imminent danger, or perhaps you were secretly wishing for the worst?
“I’m here before you today; have I fallen short of your expectations?
“My very own brother turned a blind eye to me, while Forrest risked everything to save me. How can I not stand up for him?”
Zach remained silent.
Madelyn pondered, ‘No way to refute these truths, right? Everything I’ve uttered is grounded in reality. Have I truly wronged him? No.”
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Madelyn spoke without holding back, unsure of how many ears were listening.
While she didn’t fully grasp what Forrest had experienced, she knew she must stand firmly by
his side in this moment.
Forrest had risked his life to save her. If he could selflessly protect her, why couldn’t she find the strength to stand up for him? Especially now, when Yvonne had unfairly struck him, causing doubt to cloud his usually confident demeanor.
With her books in hand, Madelyn exited the library alongside Forrest.
Yvonne shouted, “Wait!”
But their steps remained steadfast forward.
“Happy?” Zach’s tone turned frosty, catching Yvonne off guard.
His cold gaze bore into her, sending shivers down her spine. The once-warm library seemed to chill as Yvonne felt an icy atmosphere envelop her. It was a terrifying presence she had never encountered before.
“Wh-What do you mean?” She stammered.
Zach said nothing and walked away, his pace swift.
Yvonne had to hurry to keep up.
When he got into the car, Yvonne quickly took the passenger seat, fearing he might depart
without her.
She fastened her seatbelt, but Zach didn’t start the car. He seemed lost in thought.
Yvonne said, “I was trying to help, and yet you didn’t bring her back. Why take your anger out on me?” Her voice trembled slightly, a rare tone and manner of speaking for her. She could not keep her composure when she was around Zach.
“Zach… are the things Madelyn said just now true?” Her voice barely rose above a whisper, her eyes involuntarily meeting his gaze.
“Curious?” He locked his eyes with her.
Yvonne’s heart raced, his voice pulling her in.
Shaking her head, she murmured, “I don’t need to know. Your family matters aren’t mine to bear. It’s late. Please, let’s head home quickly. I can hardly keep my eyes open.”
Yvonne stifled a yawn. There was a subtle shift in her expression.
Back at the apartment, Madelyn’s eyes fell on the red mark from Forrest’s slap. Lacking any
medical supplies, she handed him an ice pack to soothe his face.
“Just give me a heads-up when you’re done,” she remarked.
Having neatly arranged the dining table, grabbed her backpack, and laid out her textbooks, Madelyn realized there was still some time left. This meant she could continue her revision.
Forrest got up and walked over. “You really love studying,” he commented, pulling out a chair and settling beside her. “Don’t worry about me. I’m not that fragile.”
Madelyn gazed at his cheerful expression, a blend of emotions swirling within her. She thought, ‘He can still manage to smile like that after everything that happened.’
Choosing not to delve further into the recent incident, Madelyn inquired, “Where were we?”
“The math problems,” he reminded her.
Madelyn took out the exam paper and started explaining the questions while also writing down the solution step-by-step. She tried to be as detailed as possible.
In truth, Forrest was actually quite smart; he simply didn’t often apply himself. By the time another question was raised, Forrest independently solved it, marking a sign of progress. Her efforts hadn’t been futile. Gradually, the earlier turmoil faded from their thoughts as they became fully absorbed in their studies.
As Madelyn peeked at the clock, midnight was fast approaching.
“Let’s wrap it up for tonight,” she gently closed her notebook.
When she raised her head again, Forrest had already moved to the sofa, laying out a bedsheet. Madelyn contemplated saying something but chose to keep her words to herself.
She mused, ‘Well, I guess he can spend another night here.’
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Madelyn asked, “Do you want to take a shower?”
Forrest straightened up, his eyebrow raised in surprise. “What are you trying to do to me? Put away your dirty thoughts.”
Madelyn was speechless, thinking, ‘What the hell is he thinking all day?’
She went to her room and fetched a bathrobe for him. “It’s brand new, never been worn.”
Forrest took it from her, “Oh, it’s pink.”
After this, Madelyn went to freshen up herself. She had already showered at school earlier, but yesterday, she had refrained from doing so due to his presence. Once she had taken care of everything else, she left the bathroom for him.
As she was about to close the door, Forrest’s voice echoed, “I’ll also aim for Ventropolis University.”
With a warm smile, Madelyn responded, “Got it. Sleep well, good night.”
“Good night.”
The next morning, Madelyn finished her preparations and found Forrest in the kitchen. He stood with a fry pan in one hand and another hand in his pocket, expertly cooking pasta.
Seeing him cook, Madelyn was surprised. She had assumed that a rich kid like him wouldn’t know how to cook. This was her first time witnessing a guy cooking, as Zach had never cooked
for her before.
“Come and serve the pasta,” Forrest instructed, his attention still focused on the cooking.
Madelyn put down her backpack and walked over, noticing that the red mark on Forrest’s face had faded somewhat, but there were still some visible traces.
“What are you cooking?” she asked.
Forrest responded, “Well, when you have nothing, you cook what you can!”
The pasta Forrest had prepared consisted only bell peppers and tomatoes.
Madelyn took a bite. The tomato mixed with the bell peppers had a slightly tangy but flavorful and appetizing taste. She had never tried this combination before.
“It’s quite good, actually,” she admitted.
“That’ll be $8. Thank you,” Forrest playfully remarked.
Startled, Madelyn nearly choked on her food. “Why not just rob a bank? I’ll pay you back; 1
won’t eat it.”
1/2
Forrest chuckled and removed his apron, stepping closer. “Just kidding, go ahead and eat.”
Before he could even take his seat, Forrest’s phone rang, his expression growing serious. Without a word, he headed to the balcony, still on the call.
Madelyn continued her meal, her ears catching every movement he made. His demeanor indicated the caller’s identity, a fact she could already deduce.
The conversation ended swiftly, and Forrest returned, resuming his seat in silence.
The rest of the meal passed without a word exchanged between them.
Upon finishing, Madelyn waited for Forrest before they left together for school.
As they made their way, Madelyn had a feeling of the impending challenges they would face that day.
Passersby cast curious glances, sizing up them walking side by side.
“Have you heard? Madelyn slept with several guys.”
“Really? I thought it was just a rumor.”
“It’s true! Her brother was there too, just watching without helping! If you don’t believe it, check the forum and the posted pictures. Everyone’s talking about it.”
The word “photos” caught Madelyn’s attention, even though she was completely unaware of any such images.
Upon returning to the classroom, Madelyn accessed the school forum using her phone and located the picture they were discussing.
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It was raining in the photo, and Madelyn was surrounded by four or five men. Her clothes had been torn to shreds, revealing large patches of skin.
The face in the photo was recognizable as hers. She couldn’t deny it, the person in the picture was her But she had no idea where this photo had come from
The situation escalated rapidly. The entire school now seemed to know about it. Everyone believed that she had been sexually assaulted by a group of men.
On her way to the restroom, she noticed that people were keeping their distance from her, as though she carried a contagious illness
“No wonder she was absent for three months look at her, she’s so filthy!”
Despite these stories, Madelyn kept her composure and headed back to the classroom. She had
just settled into her seat when Hailey asked her to go to the office.
Entering the office, even the teachers regarded her with curious expressions.
In a separate room, Hailey got right to the point. “You’ve heard the gossip going around school,
haven’t you? Do you have an explanation?”
Madelyn remained quiet.
Hailey persisted, “So, is any of it true?”
Madelyn replied, “Even if I explained now and said it wasn’t true, would it change anything?” She thought, ‘People believe what they want, so explaining won’t matter.”
Hailey paused for a moment. Then she said, “You’ve had a few incidents lately While the school figures out how to deal with public opinion, we’ve decided you should take some time off. The Math Olympiad team is considering a new member How do you feel about this?”
Madelyn answered, “I’m okay with it.”
“Alright, I’ll call your parents and have them pick you up.”
“No need, I can go by myself.”
Madelyn returned to the classroom to gather her belongings. Her actions didn’t cause much of a
stir among her classmates. They were focused on their own practice papers, and Yvonne wasn’t in
Walking past a classroom, a group of boys swarmed around her, disregarding the ongoing class and their teacher’s instruction.
“What are you all doing? Return to your seats and pay attention,” the teacher scolded, but her words fell on deaf ears.
Several boys stood in Madelyn’s path, playfully jostling her. “Hey, isn’t this Madelyn? Heard you’ve been hanging out with lots of guys, huh?”
Jadie approached with a furrowed brow, “What’s going on here? Stop spreading rumors. Madelyn isn’t what you’re saying.”
“Jadie White, stay out of it. You’re just adopted into the Jent family, and Madelyn never treated you as her sister. Mind your own business,” someone retorted.
Serena quickly pulled Jadie away.
Another voice joined in with laughter, “Yeah, spill the details.”
Madelyn’s response was simple, “Let me through.” She tried to step forward, but they blocked her
way.
“Why the hurry? We’re not done talking yet.”
Jadie’s frustration was evident as she stepped up. “You guys are crossing the line.”
Normally, Madelyn would have been furious, but their repulsive expressions made her want to burst into laughter.
Madelyn’s laughter was captivating. Her beauty outshone that of the other girls in school.
Then a boy presented a bank card to Madelyn, “There’s two hundred grand on it. Let me take care
of you for a year.”
Madelyn vaguely recognized him; his family was prosperous in the mining industry, but she
couldn’t recall his name.
Accepting the card with a smile, Madelyn asked, “Even if I agreed, would you even dare to lay a
finger on me?”
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Madelyn said, “Remember, I come from the Jent family, the one you all talk about having shady dealings, the one you hate ”
Advancing slightly, she lightly tapped the boy’s cheek with the bank card, her voice icy, “Go ask your dad if he’d dare to challenge the Jents! And don’t forget, those three girls who crossed me…” She paused for effect. “Where are they now?”
Her words triggered a moment of realization among many as memories resurfaced about what had befallen those girls who had messed with her.
The Linney family had teetered on the brink of bankruptcy, and Mrs. Linney had received a five- year sentence for her past actions. Michelle Linney had vanished from sight as well. Jenny Lupert and Lorrie Lamprey’s families were in even direr straits. Rumors said that they were burdened with debts amounting to millions and had fled.
Madelyn’s words stirred a shift in many expressions. All of them inhabited the same privileged sphere, they understood all too well if any family’s business had crumbled or faced legal woes.
Perhaps most had some form of business partnership with these families and had felt the repercussions to varying degrees. They couldn’t claim ignorance.
The boy who had extended the bank card tried to downplay it, “We were just having fun, no need to take it so seriously. Madelyn, we were classmates once, loosen up.”
Certain individuals simply clung to the belief that their wealth elevated them above others.
“Do you really find pride in bearing the Jent name?” A chilling voice cut through the crowd as Timothy Johnson approached. A path cleared for him. “I swear, one day, your family will fall!” he proclaimed.
So many had died due to Hayson’s covert actions. Ten times the death penalty would barely suffice for the enormity of his crimes.
“I’ll be waiting for that day,” Madelyn declared, her anticipation palpable.
If Hayson Jent was a cancer in the city, the Johnson family would act as the cells battling against the Jent family.
Madelyn walked past Timothy, clutching the boy’s bank card, and nonchalantly tossed it into a
With Hayson away on vacation, Madelyn finally found respite. She spent two or three days in her apartment, relishing the rare moments of relaxation. For once, no one was telling her what to do.
During these days, she didn’t go anywhere. She mostly stayed home, passing the time idly. Suddenly, the tranquility was disrupted by the sound of knocking. Uncertain about the visitor’s identity, Madelyn initially hesitated, not inclined to address the intrusion.
The knocking persisted, growing more insistent.
With reluctance, she roused herself and headed to the door. To her astonishment, it was Zach standing on the threshold. A brief moment of hesitation hung in the air.
Madelyn avoided direct eye contact with him. She turned and went back inside, sitting on the floor to continue her drawing. There were cushions and a blanket spread on the floor, keeping the chill at bay.
Zach stepped into the apartment, surveying the surroundings. The living room and kitchen seemed old but were neatly arranged. A few unwashed dishes lingered in the sink.
Sunlight streamed through the window, casting a glow on Madelyn. She sported a fluffy white nightgown adorned with a hat that sported two whimsical ears.
Madelyn’s sleeves were casually rolled up, revealing her hands gripping a paintbrush. The paint had seemingly found its way onto her hands, attire, and even the floor.
“Doing this after getting kicked out of school?” he asked, his tone not revealing his emotions.
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“I don’t need to go back. I’m fine here by myself,” said Madelyn confidently.
In her painting, Madelyn depicted a field of sunflowers under a bright blue sky. The sunflowers reached toward the sun, full of hope and light..
People’s feelings often showed in their art. When someone was sad, their paintings might show a cloudy sky and a stormy night. And Madelyn’s painting was full of the brightness she felt inside.
Her painting was really good. With this talent, she could easily get into the art school she wanted.
Hayson had told her not to paint, and Zach knew that too. He wondered how she could make such- great art. Then he remembered that Madelyn never followed rules.
Zach sat down on the couch and looked at the paper on the table. It was for a parent-teacher meeting notice and a camp application form. Madelyn had filled out everything, but she needed a
parent to sign.
Zach’s eyes glinted when he saw this.
Madelyn looked at her painting, feeling like something was missing. She studied it closely.
“Are you coming back with me, or should someone come get you?” asked Zach.
“If I go back, aren’t you afraid I’ll bully Jadie?” said Madelyn while her gaze remained on the
painting.
Zach didn’t answer. Madelyn knew what he was thinking without looking at his face.
“My life is better without you,” she said honestly.
Madelyn didn’t understand Zach. He acted like he didn’t like her, maybe even wanted her demise.
But he kept showing up when she least expected it.
She knew that Zach was behind what happened at school and that photo.
Now, in the eyes of all her teachers and classmates, she had become a target of embarrassment.
She got suspended from school and was taken off the Math Olympiad team.
She even thought that if she hadn’t taken those steps in the first place, like joining that Class One,
maybe none of this mess would have happened. After returning from school, she felt really lost.
She didn’t know what to do next. She asked herself, ‘Should I just keep ignoring my studies?
him get into Ventropolis University.
Suddenly, the lock on the door outside turned, and the door swung open.
Forrest walked in with two big bags, not paying attention to Zach on the couch like he didn’t see him. He put the groceries he’d bought into the fridge, a cucumber hanging from his mouth.
Zach’s expression darkened “Being better means fooling around with him?”
“Oh, come on, Brother. I didn’t expect you to think of me like that. Well, I guess it’s not surprising, you always find fault with everything I do… You’ve got it wrong, really. I’m just returning a favor. He saved my life, and I’m helping him study so he can get into Ventropolis University.”
Finally, the painting was finished She’d stayed up all night for it. It was her very first finished artwork. Carefully, she took off the tape and put the painting in a frame.
Forrest had an apron on and was about to cook. He opened the fridge and saw a plate of leftover grilled chicken from last night. “Hey, Madelyn, do you want to eat the leftover chicken from yesterday? If not, I’ll throw it out.”
Madelyn replied, “Warm it up later. It’s still good.”
Forrest nodded.
‘Leftover chicken?’ Zach thought.
Madelyn used to live a fancy life, there was never leftover food on her table. The Madelyn he knew
was picky about what she ate. She wanted fish without bones and her vegetables to have just the
right amount of oil. She had so many dietary rules.
Madelyn’s changes surprised Zach. He thought her act would break someday, that she couldn’t
keep it up forever.
But that day never arrived. Instead, she had fully embraced a simpler life, without luxury, without
someone to wait on her hand and foot.
“Just because of him saving your life, you forgot who ended up in the hospital with a choked
neck?” Zach spoke plainly, his voice a bit cold. 2
Back then, Madelyn was fighting for Jadie’s sake.
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As Forrest poured oil into the frying pan, his hand trembled at Zach’s words.
In an unexpected moment, Madelyn’s finger got nicked by a shard of glass, and a trickle of blood. started flowing She calmly wiped it away with a tissue, showing no signs of discomfort, and spoke with composure, “But hasn’t he already paid a price? Compared to your actions, Forrest’s deeds were just minor clashes among classmates.
Madelyn thought, Forrest had been hurt, stuck in a hospital bed for months. Yet, Zach, who did wrong, faced no consequences”
Preferring not to dwell on the matter, Madelyn managed a faint smile at Zach, “Would you stay for dinner, Brother? Forrest’s cooking is delicious.”
Zach met her gaze, glimpsing a hint of distance.
Beyond her composed exterior, Zach yearned for Madelyn to unleash her anger openly, to let her emotions free instead of wearing a facade.
“However, we might not have extra plates at home, Brother. Forrest bought his own plate.”
Zach stood, fastening his black suit jacket, exuding an imposing presence, “You’ve got three days
to pack. I’ll come get you ”
Madelyn’s immediate response was resolute, “I won’t go back!”
“It’s not your choice. Father isn’t as lenient as I am.” With those words, Zach departed.
Forrest turned, catching sight of Madelyn, “Why stand there? Come lend a hand.”
He was washing tomatoes, preparing a meal.
Shaking off her thoughts, Madelyn joined him in the kitchen.
Madelyn mused to herself, “Zach’s right. I can’t hide from home forever. Sooner or later, I’ll have to
return. And once I’m back, every move will be scrutinized.’ She knew what lay ahead, the
challenges she would face.
Once the meal was ready, they sat at the quiet dining table.
Madelyn savored a mouthful of food, then began, “Tomorrow…”
12
“Planning tomorrow’s meal already, even before finishing today’s? You really are ahead of the game!” Forrest playfully redirected the conversation, fully aware of her intentions.
“Forrest, I will definitely help you get into Ventropolis University.”
“What about you?”
“Me too.”
“Remember, when aiming for a goal, the path isn’t always smooth as you expect. Don’t be
disheartened by the challenges along the way. Focus on reaching the goal, no matter how tough the journey. Madelyn, trust me, things will improve.”
Madelyn met his gaze, his expression unusually solemn. It was a side of Forrest she hadn’t glimpsed before.
She responded with a smile and a nod, “Alright.”
His words held exceptional weight, impacting her profoundly.
Madelyn had pondered over what she would do if she were to lose this goal. After everything that
had unfolded, a sense of confusion lingered. She contemplated, ‘If my tireless efforts fail to
reshape my future, what’s the point of all I’ve done so far?’
She held onto the hope that Forrest wouldn’t share her fate. ‘He still has a shot at his own life. His
existence within the Arnold family likely isn’t a walk in the park either!”
In various respects, Madelyn and Forrest were kindred spirits. Both overlooked, dismissed by
those around them. Both labeled as “unworthy” through others’ eyes.
While trapped in this mire, they both believed there must be an escape route, a path to liberation.
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After lunch, Madelyn spent time helping Forrest with his studies. She had noticed his
improvement in recent days.
He had prepared for the geography test ahead of time, following his notes, and had achieved a respectable score of 89. He lost a few points while analyzing the last two questions.
Humanities subjects were mostly about memorization, and they were quite straightforward and
not too hard for him.
His previous low grades were mainly because he wasn’t interested in studying. If he decided to
learn, Forrest could do even better than others.
At three in the afternoon, Madelyn went for her after-school lessons, while Forrest packed his
things and went back to school.
Upon entering his classroom, his attitude underwent an immediate shift. Swiftly, he pulled a
chair, nonchalantly flung his backpack onto his desk, and settled into the seat. With a relaxed air,
he extended his legs, letting them rest leisurely upon the desk’s surface. His uniform pants, a bit
too loose, slid down to his calves, lending him a somewhat rebellious appearance.
“Timothy, where’s that guy?” Forrest asked.
Timothy walked up and put his hand on Forrest’s shoulder, saying, “You’re at it again! If you keep
bothering him like this, he’ll go crazy! Maybe you should stop. Madelyn is okay, right? Plus, he’s
not the reason she got suspended.”
Forrest shrugged off Timothy’s hand, making Timothy’s face freeze. Timothy controlled his
frustration, and Adrian took him aside, shaking his head at him.
“That guy doesn’t know his place.” Forrest stood up, looking agitated. He kicked the table angrily,
his gaze scanning the room where everyone had their heads down. “Listen up: I’m the only one
allowed to bully Madelyn. If anyone tries to spread rumors behind her back and I find out, I’ll take
them to the lake and make them realize their mistake!”
Forrest’s words were aimed at none other than Peter Reid, who intended to pay Madelyn to be with
him.
Even though Forrest wasn’t present at school during that time, it seemed as if he was privy to all the details concerning Madelyn. Peter found himself struggling under the weight of Forrest’s
1/3
The moment Forrest reappeared on school grounds, he unleashed his inner fury like an untamed beast. Whether it was during class or not, he seized Peter with a single powerful grip, dragging him outside. In an instant, a swift kick propelled Peter a staggering five meters away.
In a stroke of fortune, Timothy and Adrian managed to restrain Forrest’s rage. Peter was escorted to the infirmary, where the school doctor reported minor abrasions and a slight concussion.
From that point onward, Peter chose to keep a low profile, avoiding eye contact even when he ventured to the restroom.
Then, almost unexpectedly, an unforeseen event shook the status quo. Peter collapsed within the restroom’s confines, witnessed by others. His urine was tinged with blood, leading him back to the infirmary once more.
Whenever Forrest’s anger ignited, it seemed to rage uncontrollably. Just as he was departing. Timothy intercepted his path. “You bullied Madelyn back then, and I was involved too. If you’ve got balls, come after me!”
Forrest’s eyes darkened slightly. He spat out two words, “Get lost!” Brushing shoulders with Timothy, he strode away.
Seeing Forrest like this, Timothy was filled with anger. “I saw through your feelings for Madelyn a long while back. Don’t forget what you said back then!”
Adrian intervened, asserting, “Enough! Cut it out!”
Forrest left without looking back.
Upon hearing that, everyone in the class looked at Jadie.
Jadie, however, remained unaffected, her focus locked onto her practice paper.
The classroom was no place for conversation with so many people around Recognizing this, Adrian steered Timothy toward the lakeside, where they could both find some respite.
Adrian’s voice was steady, “You feeling calmer now?”
Timothy stood with his hands on his hips, a lingering fury clinging to him, seeking a release.
“I just can’t wrap my head around it. He used to single out Madelyn, and then, out of the blue, he’s
changed. He’s become her defender. What Peter said was merely a jest. If we hadn’t shielded him,
puppy.”
Chapter 251
Adrian lowered his head and chuckled, “Timothy… You’ve gone too far!
“If Madelyn’s suffering were to happen to you, and everyone mocked you for your suffering, would you still find it funny?”
Adrian tried his best to make Timothy understand the weight of his words, since Timothy could not put himself in other people’s shoes.
Timothy remained silent.
Adrian continued, “Besides, a child shouldn’t be held responsible for their parent’s wrongdoings.” We’re living in a society governed by laws. All those crimes that Hayson committed will eventually be exposed to the public, and he’ll receive legal punishment. Madelyn’s done nothing wrong, but you’re blaming Hayson’s wrongdoings on her. Do you really think that makes sense?”
Timothy still did not speak.
Adrian said, “Forrest may look reckless, but he always has his reasons for what he does. He isn’t as bad as you think. It’s true that he looks like a jerk, since he doesn’t study and just hangs out with pretty schoolgirls, always drinks and plays cards. He’s got a fancy life,” Adrian added, “But
have you ever seen him spend a night with a girl?”
Timothy could not believe what he had just heard. “Wait, are you saying he’s never been with a girl? So, all that stuff about him and the girl from Southview University was just rumors?” Then his mind turned to Jadie, and he blurted out, “And what about Jadie? He’s into her, right?
Remember that night they rode off a bike together? There’s definitely something between them!”
Adrian smiled slightly as he looked at the lake in front of him. The wind lifted the hair on his
forehead. He responded, “I’m guessing that he did it so Madelyn would see it.”
He pondered, ‘Maybe he’s been interested in Madelyn for a long time.”
Timothy could not understand it. “Why?! What makes you say that? I don’t believe it!”
Adrian explained, “Actually, Forrest had already started to have a soft spot for Madelyn back when
he was in the hospital.”
Timothy exclaimed, “Are you kidding me?!”
Adrian responded, “Do you still remember that crescent moon tattoo on Forrest’s stomach when
Adrian lowered his head and chuckled, “Timothy… You’ve gone too far!
“If Madelyn’s suffering were to happen to you, and everyone mocked you for your suffering, would you still find it funny?”
Adrian tried his best to make Timothy understand the weight of his words, since Timothy could not put himself in other people’s shoes.
Timothy remained silent.
Adrian continued, “Besides, a child shouldn’t be held responsible for their parent’s wrongdoings.” We’re living in a society governed by laws. All those crimes that Hayson committed will eventually be exposed to the public, and he’ll receive legal punishment. Madelyn’s done nothing wrong, but you’re blaming Hayson’s wrongdoings on her. Do you really think that makes sense?”
Timothy still did not speak.
Adrian said, “Forrest may look reckless, but he always has his reasons for what he does. He isn’t as bad as you think. It’s true that he looks like a jerk, since he doesn’t study and just hangs out with pretty schoolgirls, always drinks and plays cards. He’s got a fancy life,” Adrian added, “But have you ever seen him spend a night with a girl?”
Timothy could not believe what he had just heard. “Wait, are you saying he’s never been with a girl? So, all that stuff about him and the girl from Southview University was just rumors?” Then his mind turned to Jadie, and he blurted out, “And what about Jadie? He’s into her, right? Remember that night they rode off a bike together? There’s definitely something between them!”
Adrian smiled slightly as he looked at the lake in front of him. The wind lifted the hair on his forehead. He responded, “I’m guessing that he did it so Madelyn would see it.”
He pondered, ‘Maybe he’s been interested in Madelyn for a long time.”
Timothy could not understand it. “Why?! What makes you say that? I don’t believe it!”
Adrian explained, “Actually, Forrest had already started to have a soft spot for Madelyn back when he was in the hospital.”
Timothy exclaimed, “Are you kidding me?!”
Adrian responded, “Do you still remember that crescent moon tattoo on Forrest’s stomach when
Timothy vaguely remembered it. At that time, he had even ridiculed Forrest for it, but Forrest had ignored him.
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cuando lo van a actualizar?...
Ive been waiting for the update of this novel for so long now..... :(...