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Chapter 1
"You'll have the test results in about an hour."

The nurse's smile was gentle and reassuring as she took the vial of blood from Madeline Sanders.

Madeline held a cotton swab to her arm and settled into a chair in the waiting area. She was a bit pale, but her eyes sparkled with hope. She had a hunch she was conceived, and that hospital visit was just to make sure.

Three years ago, Trevon Gibson was involved in a terrible car crash that left him comatose, with doctors saying he would never wake up.

Lydia Sanders, Trevon's high school sweetheart and Madeline's half-sister, did not waste any time and jetted off abroad for her studies.

Somehow, Trevon's grandmother—Edith Gibson—figured that Madeline was Trevon's lucky charm and insisted she marry him. The Gibson family promised to care for Madeline's mother, who was lost in her own world of madness. Madeline felt trapped but agreed to the marriage.

Little did everyone know that Madeline was secretly in love with Trevon for years. To everyone's surprise, Trevon woke up after the wedding. However, Madeline's joy was short-lived.

Trevon's first words to her were icy and calculated.

"Out of respect for my grandmother, I'll take you as Mrs. Gibson for three years. When Lydia returns in three years, I will marry her."

Madeline had braced herself to play along with that deal, ready to step aside when the time came. However, life threw a curveball a month and a half ago.

Trevon stumbled home after drowning his sorrows in wine that day, and Madeline single-handedly managed to drag him inside. Supporting a drunken Trevon was like moving a boulder—each step a battle of strength.

Madeline and Trevon could no longer keep themselves upright and crumpled to the floor just inside the front door. Their lips brushed together in the fall, an accidental kiss that sent Madeline's heart racing.

Trevon was a notorious germaphobe, avoiding physical contact like the plague. However, that unexpected kiss seemed to unlock something in him, and he leaned in for another.

Madeline was caught off guard, but she did not resist.

Later, in the quiet aftermath, Madeline could not bear to stay in the bed they shared. She tiptoed around the sleeping Trevon, erasing any trace of what had happened between them.

The hospital was a hive of activity, but Madeline felt alone in the crowd. With trembling hands, she opened the lab results.

'Early stage of conceive. Recommend a follow-up ultrasound.'

Joy flickered across her face, quickly hidden behind her hand to muffle her giggles. Regardless of the state of her marriage, that baby was a precious gift.

She was eager to tell Trevon, her fingers hovering over her phone. However, she hesitated. Trevon's germaphobia was not just about objects—it extended to people. She had seen him scrub his hands raw after a mere handshake.

However, wine had loosened his inhibitions that one night.

Would he believe the baby was his?

Doubt clouded Madeline's mind, bringing a headache and a wave of nausea. She was jostled as a group of doctors in white coats rushed by, nearly sending her phone flying.

"Emergency! Please step aside," a nurse said, flashing Madeline a quick, apologetic smile before dashing off.

Madeline took a deep breath, watching the commotion unfold. Her gaze drifted to the emergency room doors without much thought.

However, in a heartbeat, her eyes widened in shock.

Trevon was there, shielding Lydia as they stepped down from the ambulance. He guided her gently onto a stretcher and, with a team around them, made a beeline for the VIP suite.

A chilling shiver sliced through Madeline, her knees buckling as she clung to the nearby railing for support.

Lydia was back.

In the hospital room, the doctor briefed Trevon.

"It seems like a mild concussion, but we'll need the test results to be sure."

Trevon's expression was serious. "Speed it up. Use the VIP route."

Lydia, stretched out on the gurney, smiled weakly at Trevon. "You're always so kind to me."

Lydia pouted as she continued, "I wasn't paying attention. Who would've thought a bike bump could lead to a concussion? In Ameristan, people usually slow down on their own."

Trevon gave her a fleeting, detached look.

A flicker of worry crossed Lydia's face. "Trevon, with Skylandia's tight deadlines, isn't my accident going to set us back a lot?"

Skylandia was the latest venture from Trevon's gaming empire, Xystos Tech, and Lydia had returned to lead the art on it.

"I won't stay here. I have to get back to work," she declared, attempting to get out of bed.

Trevon was quick to intervene, his hand on her shoulder easing her back down. "Don't be childish."

As the tender scene unfolded, Madeline watched them outside the VIP room with gritted teeth.

Trevon was notorious for his meticulous ways, but he did have a soft spot.

He was not always distant. He just saved all his warmth for Lydia.

Madeline felt a wave of emotion as she teared up. She touched her nose and fought the tears. Without really knowing why, she found herself pulling out her phone and calling Trevon.

In the sterile silence of the hospital room, Trevon's face froze for a moment as he checked his phone, then casually handed it off to his assistant, Simon Taylors.

"Tell her I'm tied up in a meeting."

Madeline's heart clenched as Trevon's annoyed expression flickered across his face.

Simon, moving to the side, answered Madeline's call softly. "Hello, Mrs. Gibson. Mr. Gibson is busy in a meeting. Is there something you need?"

Madeline's lips twitched with a defeated smile. "No, it's nothing. I just hit the wrong button."

Simon frowned. "Mr. Gibson's schedule is packed. Please be more careful in the future, Mrs. Gibson."

The future? Was there even a future to speak of?

Lydia, overhearing Simon, gave Trevon a subtle glance. She casually showed off the pink Hello Kitty bandage on her hand.

Trevon's eyes snapped to it, his voice laced with a hint of longing. "You still haven't kicked that old habit, I see."

Lydia forced a smile. "Well, you know I've always been fond of Hello Kitty."

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world around them seemed to soften.

Madeline could not stand it any longer. Clutching her phone, she turned around and left.

She thought one night could change things, but it was just wishful thinking.

Despite the autumn season, Redenbaugh City was sweltering, and the hospital's air conditioning was cranked up, sending chills down her spine.

She felt light-headed, as if she were floating on air.

Suddenly, a little boy darted into her path, bumping into her.

Madeline's face went pale as she caught the little boy, but in doing so, she lost her footing and tumbled to the ground.

The fall sent a chill up her spine, and she held her belly, too afraid to move.

The boy, however, started wailing, drawing curious glances from passersby.

His mother rushed over and gave him a quick once-over. When she found him unscathed, she pulled him into a tight embrace before turning to Madeline with fury.

"Can't you watch where you're going? You ran into my baby! How will you make this right?"

Madeline, her mind on the baby she was carrying, bit back her pain and chose not to retaliate. Instead, she made her way to the maternity ward upstairs.

The mother was not having it, yanking on Madeline's arm. "You think you can just hit someone and leave?"

Madeline, nearly tripping over, turned slightly and offered calmly, "Should we review the security footage?"

The woman, clutching her son, stormed off.

Madeline felt her vision darken as she clutched her chest. She leaned against the railing, immobilized.

In the VIP ward, Lydia gazed at Trevon longingly and leaned in for a kiss.

Trevon, who was aloof, felt a wave of nausea as she got close. His vision blurred, and his chest tightened.

He flinched and shoved Lydia away.

Chapter 2
"Here's the divorce agreement. Take a look."

Trevon, fresh from the hospital, confronted Madeline with a request for divorce.

The image of Lydia's hurt look lingered in his mind, leaving him with a sense of resignation.

His rejection was not just about his aversion to germs. It was also the sudden sickness and weakness that overtook him.

He dismissed it as a one-off, which was not worth worrying about. However, faced with Madeline, the discomfort was undeniable.

Madeline, still reeling from her hospital visit, was blindsided by the divorce papers laid out before her.

It took a moment for her to find her voice, and when she did, it quivered.

"Do we really have to end this?"

"Yes."

Madeline's grip tightened, and the question she could not suppress spilled out.

"Is it because Lydia's back?"

Trevon loosened his tie, his face turning to stone. "Didn't I make myself clear three years ago?"

He had, and she had accepted it. However…

"If... Just if..."

Madeline hesitated, biting her lip.

Trevon was impatient. "Madeline, you can't always want more."

She looked up sharply, disbelief etched on her face. Did he think she was haggling over the divorce terms?

With several deliberate taps on the table, Trevon continued, "Indeed, you've done everything required of being a wife these past three years. There's a modest place near Johnsrud. It's yours now. That's the best I can do. Don't make me lose respect for you."

Madeline's response was trapped in her throat as she smiled bitterly.

Three years of marriage, and her reward was a house. Should she be thankful?

He was determined to get the divorce over with, by any means necessary.

There was no need to mention the baby. It would only complicate how he saw her.

She did not need a man whose heart belonged to another.

Madeline felt nauseous, feeling like she needed to purge immediately. She crouched down to clutch the bin and gagged, but nothing came up.

Trevon watched, his brow furrowed in disbelief.

Why did her sickness stir something in him? Was it a mere coincidence?

Seeing her ashen face, it was clear she was unwell.

Trevor gave Madeline a questioning look. "Are you sick? When did it start? What's wrong?"

Madeline felt the urge to throw up but could not, which only intensified her discomfort. Clinging to the trash can seemed like the only thing she could do.

At the sound of his question, her fingers tensed uncontrollably. She forced a casual response.

"Maybe it's just a cold. No big deal."

"Answer me!"

His voice turned sharp, sending a jolt through Madeline, and she murmured almost without thinking.

"This afternoon, when you were… I'm just feeling a bit of chest tightness, weak limbs, and a touch of nausea. Typical cold symptoms."

She did not bring up the hospital visit, quickly labeling it a cold to avoid any wild guesses. The timing and the symptoms lined up perfectly.

'So, it's because we caught a cold at the same time?' Trevon wondered.

Madeline finally let go of her resistance. She deliberately avoided the divorce papers on the table and fetched the sour orange she had bought earlier from the fridge.

Her mouth was unbearably uncomfortable, and she craved the relief of something sour. After all, she would need some strength in her hand to sign those papers.

The moment she took out the sour orange, its tangy scent filled the room.

Catching a glimpse of Trevon standing to the side, watching her with a frown, she hesitated before offering, "Want one?"

Trevon looked away, clearly uninterested.

Madeline chuckled awkwardly. "Sorry, it slipped my mind. You're not into sour stuff."

However, as she sliced into the vibrant sour orange and its juicy interior burst with a potent tangy aroma, Trevon seemed unable to look away.

Madeline was about to take a bite when she noticed Trevon approaching. His towering presence felt like a wall closing in, making the kitchen feel smaller by the second.

Instinctively, Madeline stepped back. "If you don't like it, then I'll just..."

Before she could finish, Trevon was at the sink, lathering up with soap, washing his hands with deliberate care three times before reaching for a piece of the sour orange.

He scrunched his forehead, eyeing the orange for a long moment before popping it into his mouth.

Madeline's jaw dropped in astonishment. However, Trevon did not spit it out. He chewed thoughtfully and swallowed before looking at her seriously.

"Next time, make sure the knife's washed three times, okay?"

The urge to bite into that tangy orange slice was irresistible. Sure enough, the sour kick seemed to soothe his queasy stomach.

It was not just some bug.

His nausea had kicked in right after Madeline's, as if he was only sick because she was. What was up with that?

Trevon made a mental note to get to the bottom of it.

Madeline gave a simple "Oh" in response. They finished the orange together, a moment of closeness they had not felt in three years.

After washing her hands, Madeline looked up at Trevon. Sharing that sour fruit seemed to have bridged the gap between them, if only a little.

However, their journey together was nearing its end.

She murmured, "I'll sign the divorce papers."

It was like cashing out after three years. A million and five hundred thousand, and a house to her name. She was coming out ahead. When she was about to sign, Trevon snatched the papers away.

"We'll add another house to the deal. Wait for the lawyer's final draft."

Madeline nodded, still in a daze.

Suddenly, Trevon's phone buzzed and Lydia's whiny voice came through as he picked up the call.

"Trevon, when are you coming? I'm bored."

Madeline gripped her pen so hard her thumb whitened, nearly snapping it. Trevon ended the call, grabbed his jacket, and headed for the door.

Madeline stepped forward, her voice tinged with concern. "How am I supposed to explain this to Grandma?"

"We'll talk when I'm back," Trevon replied before the door slammed shut behind him.

The house, once filled with life, echoed with emptiness.

Madeline chuckled at herself, shook off the silence, and went to the kitchen to whip up some noodles. After all, she had to think about the little one growing inside her.

A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. Expecting Trevon, who might have forgotten something, she swung the door open only to be greeted by unwelcome faces.

Madeline's warmth vanished. "What are you two doing here?"

Cilix Sanders, her father, smiled and said, "You weren't picking up, so your mom and I thought we'd drop by."

Her phone did show a string of missed calls. Ignoring their calls was nothing new, but their sudden visit was unexpected.

"My mom's lost her mind, locked up in Sunshine Psychiatric Hospital. Did you forget to visit her, or did you forget she's there?"

Skylar Lowe, Madeline's stepmother, stood beside Cilix in her flawless outfit. She looked nothing like someone who had toiled in the fields. However, her sharp and calculative eyes matched her biting tone.

"Such disrespect! Where are your manners?"

Madeline was furious. If she truly lacked manners, Skylar would have been long gone. It was Skylar's appearance, after all, that had tipped her mother over the edge.

However, Madeline had been biding her time, collecting proof. They would all pay, eventually.

Pushing down the bile, she asked coolly, "So, what brings you here?"

"Let's talk inside," was all they said.

Once they were in, Madeline poured water into two glasses, her hands steady as stone.

Madeline's calm and compliant facade only fueled Skylar's ego. With an arrogant head tilt, she announced, "Your sister's back in town. It's time you end things with Trevon and give up your title as Mrs. Gibson to her!"

Madeline fought the impulse to douse Skylar with water as she gripped the kettle firmly.

"Give it up? I'm not following you."

Madeline's gaze shifted to Cilix.

"You told me when Trevon was in that coma, the company was strapped for cash. Marrying Trevon was the only way to afford my mom's medical bills. I married into the Gibson family for the sake of the Sanders family. How did Lydia end up taking my place as the daughter-in-law of the Gibson family?"

Chapter 3
"I was looking out for the Sanders family too," Cilix said as he sipped his water.

"The Sanders-Gibson family alliance is crucial. Three years by Trevon's side, and what? No kids, no hold on his heart, no benefits for the Sanders family. Now that Lydia's back, along with her bond with Trevon, these issues will vanish. I can even afford better care for your mother."

Cilix's duplicity struck Madeline once more.

Madeline countered, "Did you forget why Lydia left the country? Or do you think the Gibsons have forgotten too?"

"That's why we're asking you to initiate the divorce with Trevon," Cilix replied.

Madeline saw right through their plot.

She would step aside, letting Lydia take the lead, and the Sanders family would reap all the rewards.

After a tense silence, Madeline broke the ice. "I'm willing to divorce Trevon, but on one condition. I want my mom's shares—the ones she's entitled to."

Cilix instantly became furious.

Once upon a time, the Sanders family was a picture of unity.

Cilix, who came from nothing, married Bella Ziegler—Madeline's mother—and quickly turned his fortune around with a garment factory. However, Bella paid a steep price, severing ties with her own family.

It was not until Skylar—previously 'Jolene', with her kids in tow—showed up that Bella realized the magnitude of her mistake.

She battled depression for years, and the strain of the revelation only deepened her illness. That was when Cilix dropped the divorce bomb. He played the bankruptcy card during the split, claiming all assets were tied up.

Bella was left with scraps.

However, once the divorce papers were signed, Cilix's business miraculously bounced back. Ever the opportunist, Cilix kept footing Bella's medical bills, basking in the glow of his newfound reputation.

Madeline only pieced it all together as she grew up—her mother had been played. She had been nursing a plan to set things right ever since.

The meeting ended with frosty treatment all around.

Madeline shut the door behind them, collapsed onto the couch, and lost herself in the darkness outside the window.

…

Dawn's light crept into the room. Madeline shielded her eyes and took a moment to adjust before getting up reluctantly.

Nausea washed over her in an unforgiving wave.

Trevon had not come home all night. Madeline's emotions were a mess—resignation laced with a hint of disappointment. However, above all, there was relief. It was as if her decision to let go the day before had freed her from hope.

Madeline sank back into the pillows.

The click of the electronic lock signaled an arrival at the door.

Madeline glanced up, and there was Lydia, swathed in designer elegance, striding in with a smile that could light up the room.

"Madeline, it's been ages."

Rising slowly, Madeline perched on the edge of the couch, her eyes a storm of loathing. "Who said you could come in? Leave!"

Lydia's smile only grew. "Trevon sent me, of course. He spent last night at the hospital with me, then dashed off to work at dawn. He asked me to pick up a suit for him."

A shadow crossed Madeline's face.

So, Trevon was with Lydia last night.

She had waited like a fool on that couch all night long, clinging to his promise.

'We'll talk when I get back.'

"You're just like your mother, always the homewrecker," Madeline spat.

Lydia's laughter rang out. "Who's the real homewrecker? It's the unloved one. Even the lock's code is my birthday. Trevon's heart is still with me. Madeline, you've been using my birthday to open this door for the past three years. That must sting, doesn't it?"

Madeline's eyes flickered, her grip tightening on the blanket. She inhaled sharply before smiling mockingly.

"Is technology that archaic where you come from? We've moved on to facial recognition, or fingerprints at the very least. Key codes are a thing of the past."

Lydia's smile faltered, her composure slipping for a split second. "Outdated or not, Trevon's word is law."

Madeline could not be bothered with petty squabble. Her nausea was getting worse.

She gestured toward Trevon's bedroom. "His stuff's in there. Help yourself."

With a smug grin, Lydia disappeared into the room and emerged moments later, a bundle of clothes in her arms.

Before she took off, she sauntered over to Madeline, flashed her hand, and there it was—a dazzling diamond ring.

There was also that cutesy pink bandage on her finger.

"My mom says you're dragging your feet on the divorce—kinda funny, don't you think? Trevon's put a ring on it, so why embarrass yourself? Time to get a clue."

She leaned in, whispering to Madeline, "Face it, you've never been able to outdo me in anything since we were kids."

Old memories came rushing back.

Her favorite things, her mentors, her dad, her very home—Lydia had snatched them all away with just a few words.

Madeline squinted and swiftly yanked the bandage off Lydia's hand. "You've always been into taking my stuff, huh?"

She eyed Lydia's pristine hand and tossed the bandage into the bin with a look of disgust.

"Bandages are disposable. Get a new one, and it's as good as ever. However, you know what's really scary about a guy who's been down the aisle twice?"

Madeline rose to her feet, locking eyes with Lydia as she smiled slyly. "It's the lingering lessons from his ex. His style, habits, tastes, thoughts—they're all tinged with the ghost of the woman before you. Chew on that. Good luck."

"Madeline!"

Ignoring her, Madeline grabbed a bag of clothes and thrust it into Lydia's arms. "So long, no need for goodbyes!"

Behind the wheel on her way to work, Lydia smacked the steering wheel, Madeline's parting shot replaying in her head.

The phone buzzed.

Lydia answered with a huff. "What's up with the wake-up call?"

Wren Naylor, Lydia's assistant, hesitated before speaking up with caution. "Ms. Sanders, the planning team wants to add an illustrator to the project. They've already picked someone out."

"They've what now? Since when does planning get to call the shots on art hires? They really need to stay in their lane."

Wren stayed quiet.

Lydia bit back her frustration. "Alright, I'm heading to the office soon. I'll sort it out with them."

Instead of going to her department when she arrived at the office, Lydia went to the top floor to drop off some clothes for Trevon.

Trevon accepted the clothes, but his brow creased in confusion.

Lydia felt a twinge of worry. "Something wrong with the clothes?"

They were definitely not his usual brand. Madeline would not slip up like that.

"Madeline wasn't there when you picked these up?"

Realizing the brand mismatch, Lydia understood her mistake. Madeline's earlier words echoed in her head.

Lydia bit her lip, looking hurt. "Madeline just handed me these and shooed me out when I arrived. You know she's never been fond of me."

She sighed resignedly and continued, "Typical Madeline, knowing you're in a rush and still acting petty with me. Should I run to the store and grab you a new set?"

Trevon cut her off. "Don't bother. You've got work to do."

Lydia clammed up, stepping back into silence.

Trevon let out a quiet sigh. "Don't sweat it. It's not your fault. Clothes are the least of our worries. We've got the Skylandia project to focus on."

In just a week, Skylandia would unveil its magical realms to eager eyes, with artistry at its heart. Lydia, fresh from her hiatus, was steering that ship—the crown jewel of the year for Xystos Tech. She knew the drill, but duty called, and she stepped out with a promise to return for lunch.

Madeline, alone then, rinsed a handful of cherry tomatoes, trying to quell the unease bubbling inside her. She scrolled through her phone, the barrage of prenatal check-ups looming large and daunting. Midway through her meticulous note-taking, the doorbell chimed.

She opened the door to find Simon pulling a long face.

Chapter 4
"Mr. Gibson sent me some clothes."

Madeline raised an eyebrow. "Again?"

Simon's eyes flickered with annoyance as he asked, "Why'd you send Mrs. Yagle's clothes?"

Simon referred to Trevon's mom, Riley Yagle—a woman whose kindness was only matched by her absentmindedness.

Madeline recalled the ill-fitting, off-brand clothes that Trevon probably ditched without a second thought.

"Mr. Gibson says, 'Don't get snippy and hold things up,'" Simon relayed with a hint of sternness.

Madeline could not help but chuckle, amused by his blind trust. "Lydia told Trevon I picked out the clothes?"

Did Trevon need to believe everything Lydia said?

Simon rushed her along.

Madeline handed him a fresh set of clothes, but her grip lingered as she responded steadily.

"Simon, you've been Trevon's right-hand man for what, three, four years now? Do you realize why you're still at the bottom rung, just an assistant? You're good at sizing people up by their titles, but that's not really a skill an assistant needs. Why don't you take a page from Mr. Harris's book?"

Trevon did have a star assistant—Daniel Harris—who was so capable that he was sent overseas to handle big deals.

That was when Simon got the call to step in.

Simon's face went through a mixture of pale and flushed as he absorbed her criticism. Madeline, who was usually quiet, had just thrown shade in his face.

He bit back his retort, finally huffing in annoyance and storming off. Madeline let out a soft laugh, brushing off the encounter.

With visiting hours ticking closer, Madeline headed to Sunshine Psychiatric Hospital to see Bella.

It was more of a wellness retreat than a hospital, nestled right next to Redenbaugh City's fanciest private clinic.

Getting in was not easy, but thanks to the Gibson family pulling strings, Bella got a spot.

Madeline wheeled her mom out into the courtyard, catching her up on the week's gossip and happenings. Bella was her usual self—unresponsive and staring off into space.

Madeline sighed and took her mom's hand, resting it gently on her belly. "Mom, right here, there's a little one on the way. Even with Trevon talking about divorce, I'm keeping this baby. You've got to come back to us. Who will help me with this little one if you don't?"

She nestled against Bella's legs, craving the comfort of her mother's presence.

Unseen by Madeline, Bella's eyes flickered—a brief, almost missed flutter.

"Madeline?"

A voice, laced with surprise, called out for her.

Madeline looked up to see a man in a lab coat looking her way.

The sun was blinding, and Madeline squinted without recognizing the figure before her. There was something oddly familiar about the silhouette.

It was not until he was close that she could see it was Caleb Jabs, her old college friend.

With a warm smile, Caleb teased, "Madeline, can't you recognize an old friend after just three years?"

He opened his arms for a hug, like nothing had changed. Madeline hesitated, then offered a hand for a handshake instead.

Caleb's smile faltered, then returned. "Right, we're not on campus anymore."

He shook her hand before releasing it, stealing a glance at the wedding ring on her finger.

Through their chat, Madeline learned that he had just returned from overseas and that his uncle was running the local private hospital.

Caleb nodded toward Bella with a slight smile. "And who is this?"

Madeline's smile vanished. "My mom. She's been like this since she had a breakdown three years ago."

A breakdown?

It looked serious, as if she had lost all touch with the world.

What could have caused it?

Caleb pushed down his questions, his heart aching for Madeline. "These past three years must've been tough on you."

Madeline seemed more grounded than in her college days, but her eyes were shadowed with concern.

Madeline shook her head. "It's time for us to head back."

She was not one to bare her soul to just anyone. As she rose to leave, she wobbled slightly.

Caleb reached out to steady her. "You're looking a bit pale. Maybe you should get checked out."

Madeline steadied herself and took a step back. "It's just low blood sugar. I'm fine."

Caleb watched Madeline sidestep with a calm smile, not the least bit ruffled. "Back in college, you were always dealing with low blood sugar. Still battling that, huh? Skipped breakfast today?"

He was already taking the wheelchair's handles as he spoke, and Madeline allowed it.

They got Bella settled and swapped numbers.

Then, Caleb pressed a chocolate bar into her hand. "For your sugar levels, have a bite."

Madeline's laughter bubbled up. "Caleb, you still keep chocolate on you after all this time?"

"Just a habit," he said with a chuckle.

That little piece of chocolate seemed to bridge the gap that had grown between them.

"How about lunch? It's already noon."

Madeline bit her lip, uncertain.

However, Caleb was already tugging her along. "There's this great little place I know nearby. You'll love it."

Trevon managed to swing by the hospital after his meeting wrapped up.

The doctors gave him a clean bill of health. They suggested bringing Madeline in, thinking she might be the key to why he felt off.

He left the hospital with that thought, only to see Madeline and Caleb, all smiles, heading into a cozy diner.

Madeline's smile was something new, something he had never seen, and it stopped him in his tracks. He took a moment before climbing into his car.

From the driver's seat, Simon caught Trevon in the mirror. "Mr. Gibson, wasn't that Mrs. Gibson? Should we pick her up?"

Trevon watched them disappear into the diner, a place he would never dream of entering.

"No, let's not," he murmured.

Simon arched an eyebrow, shot a look of faint scorn at the diner, and sped off.

Trevon was reclining in the back seat, eyes closed, soaking in a moment of peace. A few minutes in, a wave of relief washed over him, leaving him feeling surprisingly refreshed.

It took him a moment to realize that he was embodying Madeline's happiness.

What could possibly be so special about that little shop to make her that cheerful?

However, that sour beef and cabbage soup with noodles they served was exceptional—tangy and invigorating.

It had been days since Madeline had enjoyed a meal so thoroughly. She even decided to get an extra serving to go.

Caleb chuckled. "Noodles never taste as good reheated. Wait, didn't you love spicy food? What's with the switch?"

Madeline smiled. "I haven't really switched. This is just that good."

She was known for her love of spicy dishes, and even Trevon, the health nut, had found his tastes swayed by her.

It was hard to argue with Madeline's culinary magic. Her cooking was irresistible to most.

Back home, Madeline had barely set down her takeout when her phone rang. It was Yeneth Collins, her best friend.

"Madeline, I've got some good and bad news."

Feeling a bit worn out, Madeline sank into the couch. "Go on."

"The good news is that you've been chosen to draw the new character for Skylandia. They've sent the contract over to you already."

A spark of excitement flickered across Madeline's face as she reached for her laptop to check her email. "And the bad news?"

Yeneth sighed heavily. "Lydia is the new art director for Skylandia. She just got the job today. I wouldn't have pushed you to take this gig if I'd known."

Since marrying Trevon right after college, Madeline had not returned to the workforce, finding solace and passion in her art.

Her style was distinctive, not exactly mainstream, with a focus on creating captivating illustrations.

When Yeneth got involved with Skylandia, she thought Madeline's artwork was a perfect fit and put her name forward.

Madeline smiled. "No way. The contract's terms are decent. Can't miss an opportunity of making money just because of her."

She was always hustling for cash, especially with Bella's medical bills piling up. It meant biting her tongue whenever the Sanders family got tight-fisted.

"Are you sure you're okay with this?"

"Totally. I freelance under the name 'Lily Mora'. Who will connect the dots?"

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of a door swinging open as Trevon walked in.

Chapter 5
Madeline's instinct was to snap her laptop shut. "Give me a second."

She quickly ended the call and turned to face Trevon. "What's got you home at this hour?"

Trevon eyed her hurried movements and washed his hands before replying, "Just needed to pick something up."

Madeline responded with a noncommittal hum.

His gaze landed on a nearby takeaway box. It was the sour beef and cabbage soup with noodles.

It looked just like the one she had had for lunch. Was it really that tasty?

A jolt of panic hit Madeline, and she blurted out, "It's for Yeneth, not me."

Back when they were newlyweds, Madeline had grabbed some street sausages, and Trevon had gone into a tailspin, bombarding her with articles about the filth of street vendors and the dangers of eating out.

Since then, she had avoided eating street food around him.

However, she had slipped up and forgotten to stash the evidence.

Trevon's chuckle was detached as his eyes drifted to a notebook on the table.

Madeline's heart was pounding, and she pushed aside the wave of nausea to dash toward the notebook—her secret journal of conceive appointments.

The last thing she wanted was for Trevon to find out she was expecting.

However, Trevon was quicker. He stretched out his arm and lifted the notebook from Madeline's reach.

Without regard for her protests, he calmly flipped it open.

The 'Prenatal Appointment Schedule' header stared back at him.

He raised an eyebrow, his cool gaze landing on Madeline.

Madeline felt her heart jump into her throat.

"Is this for Yeneth, too?" Trevon asked.

"Huh?"

Caught off guard, Madeline quickly nodded. "Yeah, yeah. Yeneth's getting married, thinking about having kids, so I was helping her research."

Trevon's suspicion did not wane. "So, why the panic?"

Madeline's forehead creased. She let go of the notebook and looked away.

"I didn't want you to think I was up to something."

Madeline's beauty was marred by her recent illness. Her pale face was then tinged with the flush of sickness, making her look even more vulnerable.

Trevon felt a twinge in his chest, and his annoyance grew. Her cold was messing with his work.

He tossed the notebook back to Madeline. "I don't have time for this. You should be resting, not running around. If you show up to a divorce proceeding looking like this, people will think I'm the bad guy."

Madeline silently clutched the notebook with her head bowed.

…

At the steakhouse, Lydia stared at her barely touched steak, her mood souring by the minute.

When she heard Trevon returned to the Angelic Garden Residence, her annoyance turned to outright anger.

"Madeline, that witch!"

She whipped out her phone and dialed Skylar's number.

Madeline had just reviewed the casting call from Skylandia, wrapped up her draft, and was stretching after a long day when Skylar's call came through.

"Get over here tonight. If you don't show up, I'm tossing your mom's stuff."

The line went dead. Madeline thought she had taken care of all Bella's things, so what could possibly be left at the Sanders' place?

She could not risk it, so she hailed a cab and headed over.

The Sanders' mansion was ablaze with lights, screaming new money from every gilded corner. Madeline stood at the entrance, taking in the garish display, and figured Skylar was behind it.

Skylar greeted her with a grin, tugging her inside. "I just knew you'd come."

Madeline jerked her hand away. "Cut the act, Skylar. There's no one else here. I did what you asked, so where's my mom's stuff?"

Chapter 6
Before Skylar could answer, a sharp snap echoed from the side.

"Madeline, watch how you talk to my mom!"

It was Yale Sanders, Lydia's little brother. With his shoulder-length purple hair and arms sleeved in tattoos, he looked every bit the wannabe gangster.

He had been coddled by Skylar all his life, and with the Sanders' wealth, he had gathered a gang of street toughs to back him up. Madeline did not expect him to be there but gave him a cool look and brushed him off.

Just then, Cilix descended the stairs, his voice cutting through the air. "Yale!"

Yale sulked, his lips puckered as he flopped onto the sofa, clearly annoyed.

Cilix motioned for Madeline to take a seat at the dining table.

"It's not every day we get your sister back home. I figured a family dinner was in order. Have a seat, will you? I had Mom whip up your favorite fish tacos."

Skylar quickly dished some out for her.

The oily sheen and the subtle fishy scent made Madeline wrinkle her nose and push the plate away.

"I caught a cold and lost my appetite. I'm just here to grab a few things, and I'll be out."

Cilix squinted, and Skylar, unable to contain herself, plopped down next to Madeline.

"When are you planning on divorcing Trevon, huh? Your dad and I have already scoped out a new guy for you. He's ready to tie the knot and won't wait forever."

A resigned feeling washed over Madeline.

With a mocking smile, she murmured, "Really? Who's this wonderful match?"

Skylar perked up and replied, "He's from a solid family. One of your dad's business partners. The guy owns a string of factories. Marry him, and you'll be the boss. They wouldn't even look twice at a divorcee if it wasn't for your dad's connections."

She made it sound like a fairy tale.

Madeline cut to the chase. "The owner of these factories? How old?"

Skylar hesitated, then chuckled. "Not too old. He's just a bit over forty and in the prime of his life. It'll be your second marriage, so you can't afford to be choosy. Plus, they've promised to cut your dad a deal if you marry in. Consider it a tribute to your mom."

Three years had passed, and Madeline's disdain for her family's ways was as strong as ever.

She glared at Cilix. "Over forty? You're okay with this, being not much older yourself?"

Cilix looked pained as he spoke, "Skylar's just trying to do what's best for you. Remarrying and bringing your mom into the mix, finding someone okay with that wasn't easy. Skylar really went out of her way for you."

Skylar nodded earnestly. It had indeed been a challenge. Madeline needed to be married off and kept far away to avoid causing Lydia any more headaches.

"Don't worry, the guy doesn't have kids. Everything in the future will be yours and your children's. It's a real stroke of luck."

Madeline suddenly chimed in, "It's true. These kinds of terms are hard to come by. You've really outdone yourself, but…"

Breaking from her usual composure, Madeline locked eyes with Cilix. "I was clear yesterday. I just want what my mom is entitled to—her shares. Those shares are peanuts compared to being Mrs. Gibson of the Gibson family."

Cilix remained expressionless, but his eyes were calculative. "Your mom's shares?"

Thinking she had swayed Cilix, Skylar piped up in a shrill tone. "What shares does her mother have? The Sanders family fortune is all thanks to me and Cilix. It's got nothing to do with your loony mom."

Madeline's glare whipped towards Skylar, sharp enough to shut her up. "Apologize."

"Why should I? Your mom's the crazy one."

Without warning, a cup of scalding water splashed across Skylar's face, and she let out a scream. However, before Madeline could react, she was yanked back forcefully. A second later, she was punched in the face.

"You owe her an apology!"

Chapter 7
Each word Yale spat was accompanied by a punch landing on Madeline.

Madeline shielded herself with her purse, narrowly avoiding a serious injury. Blinded by anger, she had not thought things through, never imagining Yale would actually hit her.

Conceived had left her weak, and she could only dodge Yale's vicious blows in a clumsy dance of desperation.

The Sanders family seemed petrified by the spectacle, each too scared to even twitch.

Cilix wanted to speak, but Skylar cut him off. "What's Yale got, a little muscle? Let her take a hit. It might teach her to listen."

Cilix's face darkened as he sat back down.

She had written her dad off long ago, but the sting of disappointment was as sharp as ever.

As Yale moved in again, Madeline knew she was on her own. With a swift kick, she toppled a chair and snatched a fruit knife from the table, aiming it straight at him.

"One more step, and I swear I'll stab you!"

Yale, thrown off by the chair, nearly slipped.

He wiped his mouth and sneered. "You think you've got the guts?"

Knife in hand, Madeline's face was ghostly, but her eyes blazed with defiance, "Try me. I'm still Mrs. Gibson of the Gibson family. If I take you down, they'll make sure it never sees the light of day."

Her gaze flicked to Cilix. "You think our dad's got the spine to cross the Gibsons for you?"

Yale did not budge.

Skylar stepped forward with a nervous chuckle. "Come on, we're family. Knives? Really? Madeline, put it down."

Madeline looked at Skylar icily and aimed the knife at her. "Stay back."

Skylar froze, then looked pleadingly at Cilix.

Cilix broke the silence. "Madeline, what's going on?"

Madeline stood there with a cold expression, ignoring the blood that had started to drip from the corner of her mouth. She bit her lip, refusing to say a word.

The recent scuffle had taken a toll on her, leaving her with a heavy feeling in her chest. She was afraid she would throw up if she opened her mouth. However, she was determined not to let them see her weakness.

Amid the tense moment, the nanny burst in with unexpected joy. "Mr. Gibson and Ms. Sanders have arrived!"

The pair entered the room.

Trevon's face was a mask of seriousness, his lips pressed into a thin line.

Lydia, catching sight of the knife in Madeline's grip, let out a sharp cry. "Madeline! Why are you holding a knife? What are you planning to do?"

Cilix rose swiftly to welcome Trevon. "Mr. Gibson, please come in. Let's sit and talk. Madeline, put that knife down now."

With a glance at Trevon, Madeline reluctantly set the knife aside.

Skylar exhaled in relief and grumbled, "This is all Madeline's doing, causing a scene for no reason. Since when do we bring knives into family disputes?"

Madeline inhaled deeply, pushing down the wave of nausea, and retorted with a frosty laugh.

"So, now it's all my fault, just like that? I'm trying to do the right thing here, and I'm still the one to blame?"

"Is this enough for you?"

Trevon's voice, frosty and laced with anger, cut through the room. He had been feeling sick to his stomach the whole way there.

That sensation had become all too familiar in the last couple of days, and he did not need to guess—it was Madeline's doing again.

He had warned her just at lunchtime to take it easy, but what did she do? She ran off to her family's home to pick a fight, knife in hand.

She might not be bothered by it, but he was fed up.

The room fell silent.

Madeline looked at him in disbelief. Was he really going to blame her without even asking why?

Trevon had no interest in dragging out the conversation. He grabbed Madeline's hand and led her away with urgency.

Madeline stumbled as he pulled her along, a sharp pain throbbing in her heart.

Lydia tried to keep up, her voice tinged with concern. "Trevon, you haven't eaten yet."

He barely paused, his voice dismissive. "Some other time."

With that, he ushered Madeline into the car and shut the door behind her.

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