Madelyn often clung to memories of her mom. Even though she knew the visions were not real, she welcomed them. Her mother’s face was a blur, but her voice was unmistakably clear in Madelyn’s mind.
“That glass of milk brings back haunting memories. They cut deep, hurting more than words can express. I’ve kept those feelings locked away, bearing the pain they cause. Every detail from the past remains vivid. Zach, there’ve been so many times I’ve wanted to kill you.”
Following Madelyn’s heartfelt confession, Zach remained unmoved, viewing her not as a threat. He gently scooped her up and laid her on the bed.
“Just rest,” he said. After she drifted off to sleep, he went to another room and smoked most of a pack of cigarettes. The room was thick with smoke by the time Kevin walked in. Coughing slightly, he reported, “Ms. Young has been informed of your return. A room’s been prepared for Ms. Jent, styled like it used to be.”
“She won’t be staying at the Young residence. I’ve got other plans. Plus, I don’t plan on returning there anytime soon. Kevin nodded, “Understood.”
They reached Ventropolis in the evening. The airport, now renovated, was not as Madelyn recalled. A crisp winter breeze greeted her as she stepped out from the private terminal. But once inside the car, the heater ensured they stayed cozy.
Madelyn gazed out at Ventropolis, its old buildings now overshadowed by skyscrapers. As they drove, she thought, ‘Isn’t this the way to Southern Haven Villas? But I thought Father sold it?’
Catching her thoughtful pose, Zach said, “I bought it back after Hayson sold it.” His voice carried a hint of sadness that Madelyn picked up on.
Upon arriving at the villa, Madelyn saw lights in the living room and maids bustling about, ‘Are there guests here?” Noticing the slightly opened front door, she hesitated but then felt an intense tension from Zach and cautiously moved forward.
“You’re back?”
She was not expecting to find Yvonne inside her once-familiar home. Dressed in an apron with her hair pulled back, she greeted Madelyn with a friendly smile. “Come on over,” she invited, leading her to the couch. “I’ve got some soup on the way. Want some fruit while you wait?”
As bodyguards moved the luggage from the car, Madelyn watched Yvonne approach with a puzzled expression.
“I wasn’t sure which fruits you liked, so I sliced up a variety. I need to get back to the kitchen.” Madelyn remained silent. Moments later, Zach’s cold voice broke the silence, “Who invited you here?”
Yvonne attempted a smile, her fingers playing with her apron, “I wanted to do something for you.”
Zach’s eyes darkened, “Get out.”
Trying to ease the mood, Yvonne said, Zach, I meant well. We’ve been engaged for so long, and I just wanted to cook a meal for you.”
