Chapter 142

Chapter 142:

“Don’t flatter yourself,” Andrew said flatly, his expression betraying no emotion. “I’m here to pick up Madisyn.”

As he spoke, the car door swung open, revealing Madisyn. The moment their eyes met, Evie felt a pang of realization—she was the odd one out.

“Alright, I get it. I’m the third wheel here. I’ll just leave,” Evie said as she moved to exit the car.

But Madisyn caught her arm. “Stay. You’re not busy, right? Why not join us for dinner at my home?”

“Really?” Evie’s eyes brightened.

Andrew’s cold gaze flicked toward her, making her shrink back. “Actually, Madisyn, maybe I should go…”

“Come on, let’s all go together,” Madisyn insisted.

“Okay!” Evie quickly agreed, latching onto Madisyn’s side and doing her best to avoid Andrew’s icy stare.

The two girls chatted happily, completely ignoring Andrew, who remained silent. The driver, watching the scene unfold, couldn’t help but think that Evie might be in trouble later.

Lᴀt𝑒st chαptєrs in g𝒶lnovels.c𝑜m

At the Johns family’s residence, Elaine was taken aback to see Madisyn bringing Evie home for dinner. However, she greeted Evie warmly.

With her usual charm, Evie said, “Mrs. Johns, you’re absolutely stunning! You look way younger than my mom.”

Elaine chuckled, clearly amused. “Haha, you know how to flatter,” she said, enjoying the compliment.

“I’m just telling the truth! My mom can be a bit fiery, but you’re so gentle. I’m really jealous of my future sister-in-law,” Evie continued, laying on the flattery.

“Sister-in-law?” Elaine asked, a little confused.

Evie’s eyes widened in realization—she’d said something she shouldn’t have. Sensing Andrew’s piercing gaze, she quickly corrected herself without daring to meet his eyes. “I mean, I’m envious of Dane’s future wife. Dane is Madisyn’s brother, so he’s like a brother to me too. It must be such a blessing to have a wonderful mother-in-law like you!”

It was a rather forced explanation, but Elaine’s attention shifted. “Oh, Dane! Who knows when he’ll finally settle down and find a wife!”

“Dane is such a catch. It’s just a matter of whether he wants to find someone or not,” Evie said sweetly. Her vibrant and cheerful demeanor was just what elders adored. She quickly won Elaine over.

The dinner that evening was lively and full of warmth. Madisyn chatted with Evie about the upcoming singing competition.

Evie hesitated. “Do you really think I can do it? I’m worried I might sing poorly and embarrass you.”

Madisyn reassured her with a smile, “This competition is all about original songs. They’re more interested in creativity than perfection.”

“Alright, I’ll give it a shot,” Evie agreed, though still a bit nervous. “But I’m really afraid I’ll let you down.”

“Don’t worry, I’ll be right there with you,” Madisyn replied gently, offering Evie a sense of security. Evie brightened up. “Okay, then I’ll give it my best!”

After dinner, Elaine invited Evie to stay the night. Evie was about to agree, but Andrew cut in. “She’ll be coming back with me tonight, Mrs. Johns. We’ll be heading out now. Sorry for the trouble.”

Elaine waved him off. “What trouble? The more, the merrier! Our house hasn’t been this lively in a long time.” She genuinely liked their company.

“We’ll be sure to visit again soon,” Andrew promised.

“Alright, take care.”

As Andrew led Evie out, Madisyn couldn’t help but chuckle at Evie’s reluctant expression—she really was too adorable.

The next morning, when Madisyn came downstairs, she caught sight of Josie leaving. Madisyn raised an eyebrow as she noticed Elaine and Glenn sitting on the sofa, both looking unusually serious.

“Mom, Dad, what’s up?” Madisyn asked casually.

Elaine hesitated, casting a silent glance at Glenn, as if urging him to speak.

Picking up on the cue, Glenn replied solemnly, “It seems Kristine is likely going to end up in prison.”

“I see. So, what are you two considering?” Understanding the implication, Madisyn continued, “Kristine’s father once saved you, Dad. I can understand if you don’t want her to end up in prison. Perhaps you can send her to another country instead. It might give her a chance to start anew.”

Glenn was taken aback by her insight. This was indeed what he was contemplating, but he wasn’t sure how to discuss it with Madisyn, given Kristine’s actions were undeniably unforgivable. He really didn’t want to forgive Kristine, but he couldn’t ignore the kindness his old friend had shown. If his old friend knew Kristine was in prison, it would deeply upset him.

“Madisyn, are you okay with this?” Glenn cautiously asked. “If you don’t agree, we can proceed with sending her to prison. After all, she does deserve it.”

Madisyn, maintaining her seriousness, replied, “Her parting ways with the Johns family is punishment enough. There’s no need to send her to prison. Just send her abroad, and it will take care of itself.”

“Alright,” Glenn agreed, taking Madisyn’s hand with gratitude. “Thank you for your understanding.”

Madisyn smiled, knowing that if Kristine were imprisoned, Glenn would carry the burden of guilt for betraying an old friend.

In truth, Kristine’s situation was quite pitiful—both her parents were gone, and living in a foreign country would force her to fend for herself. That alone would be a harsh punishment.

.

.

.