Chapter 41

Chapter 41:

Susan met Madisyn’s clear eyes, her heart heavy with uncertainty. How could she tell her friend about what had happened earlier? If Madisyn knew what Giana and the others had said about her gift, she would be heartbroken.

Sensing Susan’s hesitation, Madisyn gave a soft smile, her voice gentle yet understanding. “It’s alright, Susan. I’m fine with just having you as my friend.”

Tears welled in Susan’s eyes at Madisyn’s sincerity. How could Giana fail to see how genuine Madisyn was?

To lighten the mood, the two decided to take showers, allowing the warmth of the water to wash away the tension of the day. As they settled into bed afterward, the peaceful moment was interrupted by the soft buzzing of Madisyn’s phone.

Glancing at the screen, Madisyn’s expression shifted slightly. “It’s Andrew,” she murmured, before answering the call.

“Hello?” Madisyn greeted, her tone crisp.

On the other end, Andrew’s deep voice resonated with warmth. “Are you feeling tired after today’s events? I asked the maid to place a gift in your room. You can check it tomorrow.”

“You already got me a dress. Why another gift?” Madisyn asked, her curiosity piqued.

“This one has a different meaning,” Andrew replied with a comforting tone. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight,” Madisyn responded, ending the call.

When she looked up, she found Susan staring at her, eyes wide with mischief.

“Why that look?” Madisyn asked, her voice holding a hint of defensiveness.

Susan grinned. “So, was that Mr. Klein from the banquet?”

Madisyn blinked, surprised. “How did you know?”

“Oh, I noticed how he was looking at you earlier. He definitely has feelings for you. What about you? Do you like him?” Susan asked, her tone playful but curious.

Madisyn hesitated, searching for the right words. “We’re just friends,” she said finally. “He’s close to my brother, Waylon, and he’s just looking out for me.”

Susan’s grin widened. “Are you sure it’s that simple? I don’t think it is. Do you have feelings for him?”

“What kind of feelings?” Madisyn asked, suddenly unsure.

“Well, for example,” Susan began, her voice teasing, “what if he tried to kiss you? Would you stop him?”

Madisyn’s breath caught at the unexpected question. Without warning, an image flashed in her mind—Andrew standing close, his scent enveloping her, his lips mere inches from hers…

“Oh no,” Susan teased, breaking Madisyn’s trance. “You like him, don’t you?”

“That can’t be true!” Madisyn protested quickly, her cheeks warming at the thought.

Susan shook her head with a knowing smile. “We’ll see. You’re just not ready to admit it yet.”

Their conversation drifted on until the pull of sleep overtook them, their laughter fading into quiet.

Meanwhile, the soft glow of a desk lamp illuminated Dane’s study. He was still deep in his work, his sharp gaze focused on documents, exuding an aura of power and control.

Josie, hovering in the doorway, watched him with admiration. He’s so handsome, she thought, her heart fluttering. She had admired him since their youth and longed for his attention.

“Dane, you’re still working this late? I brought you some milk,” Josie offered, her voice sweet as she extended a glass toward him.

Dane didn’t look up. “Thanks, but I don’t drink milk,” he replied, his tone distant.

“Milk is good for you. I can make coffee instead if you’d like,” Josie persisted, trying to find a reason to stay.

“That’s not necessary. You’re Kristine’s friend; you don’t need to bother with these things. Go and rest,” Dane responded, polite but firm.

Josie’s heart sank. Despite her best efforts, Dane’s interest seemed far from within her reach.

Undeterred, she forced a smile. “I’ll make the coffee anyway.” She turned and left the room, hiding her frustration.

Dane sighed softly. He wasn’t interested in Josie’s advances, but since she was Kristine’s friend, he had to be careful not to be too harsh.

A sudden commotion at the door interrupted his thoughts.

Dane stepped out to see Susan and Josie had collided in the hallway. Coffee splattered across Susan’s arm, making her wince in pain.

“Sorry, I’m really sorry!” Susan apologized, despite being the one scalded.

Josie, already irritated from earlier, snapped, “Can’t you watch where you’re going?”

Susan, caught off-guard by the harsh words, kept her cool. “I didn’t see you…”

But before she could finish, Dane appeared beside her, his hand gently taking hers as he inspected the burn. His cold gaze settled on Josie, making her flinch.

Josie’s heart raced. When had Dane come out of the study?

“She’s hurt,” Dane said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

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