Chapter 184

Yvonne was drunk, and Zach had left her in the private room. The restaurant staff would take care of sending her back later. With her status, even staying there overnight would not be a big deal for her.

Madelyn leaned back in the seat, feeling dizzy and drained of energy, ‘I only had three drinks, but I’m already this drunk. Initially, I didn’t plan on drinking, but the wine was so rich and flavorful that I couldn’t resist having a few extra glasses. If I hadn’t kept my guard around Zach, I might have been as intoxicated as Yvonne.”

Madelyn cracked the car window open, trying to sober up and let the alcohol smell dissipate from her body. However, the window was closed again after only a short while.

“What are you doing? Open the window, quickly,” Madelyn pounded on the window. Her voice was as sweet as honey, exuding both flirtatiousness and softness.

“Stop it and sit properly,” said Zach.

“You’re so annoying! You won’t even let me open the window. You’re being so petty! Fine, I won’t ride in your car ever again!” Madelyn hugged her legs and curled up, burying her face in her arms. In an instant, she fell silent.

Zach glanced at the person beside him and thought, ‘Is she acting out? When did her temper tantrums become so subdued? Where did her previously strong and arrogant temper go?

“It’s cold outside. You’ll catch a chill from the breeze,” Zach’s words held a rare touch of gentleness and concern.

Madelyn’s muffled voice resounded again, “I won’t believe your sweet talk. You only know how to hurt me. You’re the person I hate the most. Besides Ethan, no one else will ever treat me well…”

As Madelyn finished speaking, her body leaned forward heavily. She stared dazedly and asked, “Why did you stop?”

“What did you say?” Zach’s voice was as cold as ice, and an icy chill surrounded Madelyn. Her mind immediately snapped to attention as she met his piercing eyes. Even though she was heavily intoxicated, she quickly regained her sobriety. Then, Madelyn just realized how dangerous her words were. The car had stopped by the roadside, and she felt surrounded by danger.

“I-I’m sorry. I got drunk…” Madelyn had no idea why she was apologizing. Maybe it was out of fear.

Before Zach could make another move, Madelyn quickly added, “It’s late. You don’t have to take me back. I’ll get a taxi myself.”

Madelyn attempted to unlock the car door. However, the door remained shut no matter how many times she tried.

“So you’ve fallen for him so easily? When will you change your habit of falling in love with every guy you meet?” Zach’s words hit her with the cold hard truth without showing her ounce of respect.

Madelyn gave up the idea of getting out of the car. Her eyes fluttered, and she lowered her head. She did not know how to respond to his question. ‘In his eyes, I’m the type who falls for whoever treats me well. However, Ethan is different. He treats me well without any ulterior motives. It’s a genuine liking.’

However, Madelyn’s feelings towards Ethan were just friends. It was without any romantic notions.

Suddenly, a hand reached over and pulled her back, pressing her against what felt like a wall. Zach’s body was warm. Madelyn was scared stiff and was afraid to make a single move.

“What are you doing? Let go of me!” There was unconcealed panic in her voice.

“Answer me,” his warm breath brushed against her neck.

Madelyn said embarrassingly, “You’ve misunderstood! Ethan and I are just friends. It’s not what you’re thinking.”

She resisted the urge to push him away and tightly clenched her hand at her side. After all that had happened, Madelyn’s aversion and resistance toward Zach intensified each day.

“Really? I thought you said you’d moved on already and didn’t like me anymore.” Zach’s hand slid around her waist, pulling her even closer to him.