Chapter 543

Madelyn was transported back to a day of memory in her past life. A day when the name Cecilia Samford held profound significance. Their first meeting had been under Cecilia’s orchestration at a café just below the grand Jardin Corporation building.

During that time, Ventropolis had become a bustling hub of economic activity. Immense skyscrapers ruled the skyline, most of which echoed with the undertone of Jardin Corporation’s dominance.

The air was thick with heat, just as it was now. There was a slight, pungent smell wafting from the hot asphalt roads under the midday sun.

Cecilia, at the time, had possessed wavy, vibrant hair that cascaded to her shoulders, secured in a simple ponytail. Every ounce of her screamed dominance and power.

Facing someone like Cecilia, Madelyn couldn’t help but feel insecure. Cecilia, after all, was the primary aide to her husband. A woman who seamlessly blended grace, assertiveness, and allure. Madelyn found herself wondering if any man could truly resist her.

Cecilia’s gaze was condescending as she looked at Madelyn, causing her to grip her handbag tighter, an attempt at projecting composure. “Is there something you require from me?”

Cecilia’s response was a smirk. “I have a flight to catch to Europe with Mr. Jardin in exactly ten minutes. So, let’s cut to the chase.”

Madelyn’s heart sank. ‘Zach hadn’t informed me about the trip.’

Gently tucking a stray strand behind her ear, Cecilia continued, “I’m privy to Mr. Jardin’s background, adopted into your lineage. Despite your family’s current… predicament, I owe your father my gratitude.

He did a splendid job raising him. And in the decade since I graduated and joined Zach, from Azure to Jardin, I’ve been instrumental in sculpting this empire. Frankly, I believe I’m the ideal partner for him.”

Madelyn’s face turned pale. “What are you trying to say?”

Cecilia’s laughter was laced with a mocking tone. “Oh, Madelyn Jent, has playing housewife muddled your senses? Allow me to simplify things for you: divorce Zach and let go of the ‘

Mrs. Jardin’ title. And here’s a juicy bit for you: by day, I’m Zach’s right-hand woman, but by night, our roles are… far more personal. From the moment I stepped into the company, he offered his ‘support,’

and I graciously accepted. The word on the street is you’re quite magnanimous to turn a blind eye to your husband’s affair. But in my eyes? You’re nothing but a naïve fool.”

When Madelyn snapped back to the present, her heart ached, and she felt suffocated. She clutched her chest, struggling to catch her breath.

Cecilia was her lifelong nightmare. Whenever she saw her, Madelyn couldn’t help but remember the hurtful things Cecilia had said to her in a past life, as well as the pain Zach and Cecilia had inflicted upon her.

Suddenly, someone tapped Madelyn’s shoulder. She quickly wiped away her tears and turned around, pretending everything was fine. Mya looked at her with concern. Madelyn, were you crying? What’s wrong?”

“I’m fine, just got some sand blown into my eyes.”

“Should I blow it out for you?” Mya pouted, looking rather cute. “No, it’s okay. I need to head to the exam room. Don’t be late.”

“Wait for me. Let’s go together.”

Today, Kevin was driving Jadie to school and Zach to work. Zach said, “Jadie, if you’re not feeling well, you don’t have to push yourself.”

“It’s okay. I have to take the test. You’ll pick me up after it, right?”

“Yeah,” Zach added, “If you don’t feel well during the test, don’t force yourself. Call me right away.”