âI never had much of a relationship with my biological father. Sure, I met him once, but that was it. If it werenât for my loyalty to you, Dad, I wouldâve left the Tanners a long time ago. But youâve been more of a father to me than anyone else. How could you even think to accuse me of wrongdoing? Itâs Nolan, stirring up trouble, trying to pin everything on me. Youâve got to see through his lies, Dad!â
Imogen was nodding vigorously next to Madeline, though she was also on edge.
When had Madeline gone to see Domingo? And how had Nolan caught wind of it without a peep from anyone else?
It seemed like the mess with Regina was somehow tied back to Madeline, and all Imogen wanted was to smooth things over before Nolan made a bigger scene. She had no intention of rekindling anything with Domingo. All she wanted was a peaceful life with the Tanners and to leave everything to her future son. Why couldnât Madeline just leave her be?
Francis was skeptical, and Nolan chimed in just at the right moment, âFrancis, Iâm not entirely sure how often Madeline met with her biological father. I just happened to witness it once. I have the surveillance footage if youâd like to see for yourself. Then youâll know Iâm telling the truth.â
With Reginaâs whereabouts still unknown, Nolan had no time to waste. At his signal, two burly men stepped forward and grabbed Madeline. She screamed, âLet go of me! What you think youâre doing?â
Imogen rushed over, but what could she, a pregnant woman, do against such towering figures? They didnât lay a hand on her, considering her condition, but their mere presence was enough to keep her at bay.
Francis quickly pulled Imogen aside. âYouâre carrying a child, for heavenâs sake. Canât you stay out of trouble?â
Imogen turned to him, pleading, âPlease talk to Nolan. How can he do this to Madeline? She has been pampered by the Tanners all these years.â
âYeah, pampered by the Tanners, only to harm the real Tanner daughter in the end. If I were you, Francis, Iâd stay out of it. You must have your suspicions too. Does she really have nothing to do with this? If yes, Iâll have her sent right back.â
At Nolanâs command, the two henchmen escorted Madeline to a secluded room within the Tanner Mansion, where they were met with a locked door and several guards blocking the entrance. It wouldnât be long before they got the truth out of her Nolan, meanwhile, didnât care to witness the unpleasantness. He casually returned to the living room, inviting Francis and Imogen to sit, as if nothing were amiss.
Imogen was terrified, especially when she heard Madelineâs scream from the other room.