Chapter 38

Chapter 38:

Kristine’s grip on her wine glass tightened a visible sign of her mounting irritation. As Josie gazed adoringly at Dane, Kristine’s irritation mounted, but she quickly softened her expression, her eyes calculating. “Josie, it’s been too long since you stayed over at my place. Why don’t you come over tonight?”

Josie’s eyes sparkled with excitement, eager to please. “Absolutely! I’d love to!”

Meanwhile, Dane’s focus shifted to Andrew, his words deliberate and sharp. “You’ve been looking out for Madisyn on Waylon’s behalf, right? Well, I’m back now. You can step back; I’ve got it from here.”

Andrew’s gaze briefly hardened before his deep voice cut through the tension. “It’s fine. Waylon’s sister is my sister as well.”

Dane clenched his jaw, silently frustrated. As if she needed another brother—she already had three. Why was Andrew hovering so much?

Madisyn sensed the brewing tension between the two men and, feeling slightly uncomfortable, excused herself. She made her way to Susan, seeking the comfort of a friend who wouldn’t complicate things.

Dane, still watching Andrew closely, pressed on. “Just to be clear, the marriage agreement between our families is now void, right? I’ll talk to Kristine about it later.”

Andrew’s gaze didn’t waver. “I’ve always regarded Kristine as a sister. But my family is keen on an alliance with yours. Lately, I’ve grown quite close to Madisyn, and I’m willing to wait for her decision.”

Dane’s eyes darkened with anger. This jerk! Making moves on his sister? Not happening.

“Sorry, but Madisyn is still young. She isn’t considering anything like that right now, right?” Dane said, turning to get her agreement—only to find she was completely engrossed in conversation with Susan at the buffet.

A mix of exasperation and affection washed over him. Madisyn… completely unaware of the storm brewing around her.

Andrew, noticing the shift in Dane’s tone, realized this wouldn’t be an easy path. “Perhaps we should shift our focus back to the collaboration,” Andrew suggested, hoping to avoid further personal conflict.

Dane sighed and nodded. Business first—personal matters could wait.

Meanwhile, Madisyn and Susan were enjoying their conversation, unaware of the tension between Andrew and Dane.

“I almost dragged you into a mess today, Susan,” Madisyn murmured, a hint of guilt in her voice.

Susan brushed it off with a smile. “With you by my side, I’m always in good hands.”

She leaned in closer and whispered, “But… your sister doesn’t seem very kind-hearted. Be careful around her.”

Madisyn nodded. “I will.”

Just then, a waiter brought over a special package, and Susan’s eyes widened as she unwrapped it. Inside were opulent gifts—Chanel perfume, a designer handbag, and premium skincare products. But what took her breath away was a limited-edition Cavo necklace.

“Is this… real? This is the Cavo necklace I’ve only seen in magazines!” Susan exclaimed.

Madisyn smiled, pleased by her reaction. “Yes, it’s all for you. And here’s another gift for Giana.” She handed Susan a second package, her eyes twinkling with warmth.

Susan was overwhelmed by her friend’s thoughtfulness. “I never imagined my first high-end necklace would come from you! Looks like I’ll be relying on you for more surprises in the future.”

Madisyn chuckled. “You’re always welcome at my place.”

Their laughter blended into the lively ambiance of the banquet.

Not far off, Dane and Andrew had concluded their conversation, and Dane overheard the end of Madisyn and Susan’s exchange. “There’s plenty of room at our home,” Dane said warmly, joining them. “You’re a friend of Madisyn, so you’re welcome to stay with us.”

Susan blushed slightly at Dane’s kind offer, but Madisyn squeezed her hand gently. “Don’t be shy. My parents are very welcoming.”

Encouraged by their hospitality, Susan nodded. “Okay, I’d love to.”

She was eager to see how Madisyn was settling into her new home and wanted to ensure her friend was being treated well. The warmth and openness of the Johns family stood in stark contrast to the cold, unwelcoming atmosphere she had felt around the Chapmans.

Though the banquet was still in full swing, Susan decided to head home briefly to change. Madisyn offered her some clothing, but Susan, not wanting to impose further, opted to fetch her own.

Madisyn arranged for a driver to take Susan home. As Susan left the venue, her eyes caught a glimpse of a familiar figure across the street, stirring an unsettling sense of recognition.

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