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👉😍《Reborn to My Engagement Night》Join our reading community now!😍

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The novel

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PERSON_PROFILE

Chapter 1 Poison

The prison was chillingly cold, filled with a strong stench of blood.

“Why...” Madelyn was painfully curled up on the ground, the oversized prison garb enveloping her and accentuating her frail, emaciated body.

A violent coughing fit racked her body, and blood gushed out of her mouth.

The pain was unbearable.

It felt as though ten thousand knives were churning in her stomach, causing such intense pain that her vision started to darken.

The poison was terrifyingly potent, even piercing her guts.

“Why... Why are you treating me like this?” Madelyn mustered all her strength to lift her head, her eyes filled with deep-seated hatred as she stared at the prisoner before her.

“Hehe, are you asking why I poisoned your food?” The prisoner laughed cruelly, looking down at the woman kneeling on the ground with a mix of disdain and pity. “Someone paid me to kill you. Your very existence stands in the way of her happiness!”

“Who?” Madelyn braced her stomach with her knee, struggling to maintain a shred of consciousness.

“Fine, since you're already on the brink of death, I'll tell you who it is so you can rest in peace. Aren't you going to marry Mr. Lockhart? That's why she doesn't want you around! Once you're gone, they can be together...”

The excruciating pain coursed through her body, engulfing her nerve endings in torment.

Despite the agony, a woman's face flashed through her mind, albeit fleetingly.

It's her! It's Janessa, that despicable woman! I can't believe she actually stooped so low!

Madelyn cried out in agony, her tear-filled eyes reflecting an overwhelming sense of regret and remorse.

Janessa, once her closest and dearest friend, had meticulously plotted against her, causing her to be incarcerated. It was because of that woman, she had given up the best man in the world.

That handsome man once pampered and doted on Madelyn, but due to Janessa's instigation, Madelyn used every trick in the book to make him despise her and push him away from her.

Only then did Madelyn realize she had been manipulated by Janessa. I'm such a fool. I ended up being imprisoned, and now, I'm even losing my life. But it's too late for regrets... I'm no longer worthy of him.

She spewed out yet another mouthful of blood.

Lying in a pool of crimson blood, she gazed upon the darkness that enveloped the room through tear-filled eyes. She could no longer feel the gut-wrenching pain. Only profound regret engulfed her, so intense that even death couldn't erase it.

Seeing her in such a state, the prisoner couldn't help sighing in pity. He stepped forward, gently brushing his fingers over her eyes. The next second, her eyes, wide with anger and filled with hatred, were shut. All that remained was a beautiful face devoid of any vitality.

Once again, the prisoner sighed lamentably, then rose to his feet and left.

All that was left was the pungent smell of blood filling the room.

Pain and resentment intertwined, gradually engulfing Madelyn from head to toe like a rising tide.

Shuddering, Madelyn let out a yelp.

She found herself submerged in an abyss of suffering, utterly overwhelmed. Before she could muster a response, a strange sensation surged through her body, shattering her thoughts and consciousness once more.

The man's seductively deep voice, coupled with palpable pain, evoked a sense of familiarity that left her feeling bewildered.

Before she had a chance to ponder, the man's domineering actions to claim her interrupted her train of thought.

After what felt like an eternity, Madelyn opened her eyes laboriously, only to be stunned by the sight before her.

The pristine yet plain, boring furnishings were exactly the same as those in the hotel she spent the night in seven years ago.

She incredulously turned her head to look at the person beside her.

The man's distinctive features loomed before her. His thin lips bore the mark of a harsh bite, the wound scabbing over with a dark red tint. A subtle trace of a smile played at the corner of his lips as he slept.

Madelyn covered her mouth, muffling the uncontrollable sobs that threatened to escape.

It's Sebastian! It's really him!

To her surprise, she found herself transported back seven years, to the night she had become engaged to him and, ultimately, slept with him.

That evening remained deeply etched in her memory, not solely because it was the night she lost her virginity, but also because her family pressured her into marrying Sebastian, to which she adamantly rejected.

Rumors had it that Sebastian was not only a formidable figure in both sides of the law, but also a hot-tempered man with a tendency toward cruelty. She was terrified, so she vehemently opposed the arranged marriage between their families. She even once suspected that her father and stepmother harbored ill intentions, intending to throw her into hell.

That night, she didn't want to be touched by Sebastian. In her desperation, she blurted out that she was in love with Christopher Gale and even declared that she wanted to save herself for him.

She vividly recalled how those very words had sparked Sebastian's fury, causing him to forcefully claim her.

After that night, she was even more convinced that the heir of the Lockhart family was indeed as terrifying as the rumors suggested.

It was only later that she realized, the man she had pegged as cold-hearted was actually the man who loved her the most in this world. However, she had squandered all his affection for her.

She was filled with regret.

But now, she had been reborn.

Madelyn sobbed with joy, tears flowing uncontrollably. Her trembling fingers gently brushed over the man's injured lip.

Since fate had granted her a second chance at life, she vowed to reclaim everything that was rightfully hers, including this man.

She wouldn't make the same foolish mistakes again, let alone allow herself to be played like a fiddle by Janessa, the woman who had killed her.

Madelyn gently moved closer to the man, her trembling lips kissing the corner of his mouth.

Knock! Knock!

A flurry of rapid knocks echoed from the door.

Taken aback, Madelyn froze, her gaze fixed on the source of the sound.

If my memory serves me right, Janessa should be outside the door. She's here.

Chapter 2 What Is Wrong

Madelyn narrowed her eyes, scenes from the past playing out in her mind like a movie.

Every word that Janessa had uttered in her previous life was etched in her heart. That woman was unscrupulous, doing anything she could to trick Madelyn. As a result, Madelyn was led astray, even believing that marrying Sebastian was akin to stepping into hell.

Janessa had told her that the man who loved her the most was Christopher and that she would only find true happiness with him. That was how Janessa gradually persuaded her to walk straight into a trap, causing her to be doomed eternally.

Looking back, Madelyn found herself ridiculous.

Back then, she was foolish enough to believe everything Janessa said, even convincing herself that she was truly in love with Christopher. As a result, she went out of her way to oppose Sebastian, striving to distance herself from him. In the end, she became the talk of the town and was widely criticized for being promiscuous.

Madelyn closed her eyes, tears of regret streaking down her face.

Having recognized the true nature of Janessa, she was determined to prevent history from repeating itself.

There's no way I'm going to let Janessa have her way again!

Madelyn rose from the bed, slipping into her bathrobe. She paused for a few moments, her hand gripping the doorknob before finally turning it open.

Janessa breathed a sigh of relief. She quickly grabbed onto Madelyn's arm, exclaiming, “You finally opened the door. I thought something had happened to you. You really scared me to death.”

Janessa stood on tiptoes to peek into the room and asked with a tone of reproach, almost like she was interrogating Madelyn. “Madelyn, I thought we agreed on this. Did you not sneak out last night? Why did you end up spending the night in the room? Did... Did Mr. Lockhart do anything to you?”

Janessa scrutinized Madelyn intently, her gaze piercingly sharp, as if trying to see through her.

Madelyn cast her eyes down, her fingers tightly clenched, striving to keep her emotions under control.

How could I possibly forget what Janessa persuaded me to do?

Last night was the night of her engagement to Sebastian. As all the elders were present, Madelyn had no choice but to follow Sebastian into the room.

At that time, Janessa immediately sent her a text message, urging her to devise a plan to get Sebastian drunk and find an opportunity to slip away in the middle of the night.

However, Janessa was left disappointed.

Madelyn scoffed inwardly. She had indeed acted according to Janessa's suggestions the previous night. Unfortunately, Sebastian's tolerance for alcohol was frighteningly high, and he had even seen through her tricks.

Madelyn had decided not to explain any further.

Having experienced death, Madelyn discerned Janessa's feelings for Sebastian. It's pretty obvious, actually. How was I foolish enough to be blinded in the past?

Madelyn couldn't help but mock herself inwardly.

Swiftly, she collected her thoughts and responded nonchalantly, “Oh, I accidentally fell asleep last night.”

Janessa panicked. “You feel asleep? How did you just fall asleep like that? What about Mr. Lockhart? Were you two together last night?”

Clenching her jaw, Janessa was frustrated. She had been waiting for Madelyn all night, but the latter did not emerge from the room. This made her feel uneasy, which was why she couldn't resist rushing over to knock on their door first thing in the morning.

“Yes, we are together. Last night was our engagement night. There's nothing wrong with him and I being alone in the same room, right?” Madelyn stared at her.

Caught off guard by the question, Janessa couldn't shake off the feeling Madelyn was hinting at something. Even her gaze seemed to carry a sharp edge.

“Madelyn, what are you talking about? That's not what I meant...” Janessa's voice trailed off. Her attention was instantly drawn to the love bite on the back of Madelyn's neck.

Narrowing her eyes, she exclaimed in shock, “Madelyn, what's that on your neck? Is that...”

Madelyn reached up to touch her neck and tried covering the hickey with her hair, feigning anxiousness. Lowering her gaze, she fell silent.

Just as Janessa was about to press for more details, she saw a tall and slender emerge from the room.

It was none other than Sebastian.

He was clad in a black suit, exuding an imposing aura.

“Mr. Lockhart...” Janessa murmured, her gaze revealing a hint of admiration and love she couldn't hide.

Sebastian merely gave her a cold glance, nodded slightly, and then, without a word of greeting, walked past the two of them.

Madelyn wanted to call out to him, but she hadn't changed her clothes yet, so all she could do was watch him walk away.

Oh, well. I'll deal with Janess first.

Reluctantly, she pulled her gaze away and looked at Janessa, who was gazing at the man's retreating figure longingly. The flames of passion ablaze in her eyes grew more intense, and her jealousy burst forth.

What she had been worried about had indeed happened last night.

She narrowed her eyes and clenched her fists, but as she turned around, she regained her composure. As she spoke, however, her tone was tinged with indignation, as if she was upset on behalf of Madelyn. “Madelyn, I can't believe he had the nerve to force himself on you. That's just too much... I feel so bad for you. We must do something about it, or things will only become worse for you!”

Madelyn looked at Janessa's pretentious demeanor and scoffed internally. “Oh? So...how exactly do you plan to help me?”

Janessa blurted out, “Of course, you need to break off the engagement. Madelyn, you need to find an opportunity to end the marriage! Only then can you be truly free to pursue your own happiness! Don't you like Christopher?”

Madelyn sneered inwardly yet again, but she concealed her thoughts. “I do, but as you know, the elders from both the Lockhart and Thornton families won't allow it.”

“No worries. I can help you figure out another solution!”

Observing Janessa's eager demeanor, Madelyn really wished she could tear off her hypocritical mask right then and there. However, it just wasn't the right time yet.

“Let's talk about this later. I'm going to change my clothes now. Wait for me.” With that, Madelyn closed the door.

Janessa stood rooted to the spot. She was aware that something about Madelyn seemed different. Yet, she couldn't quite pinpoint what exactly had changed. All she was certain of was that, following that night, Madelyn seemed off.

As Madelyn changed in front of the mirror, she couldn't help but let out a smirk of derision.

Janessa toyed with me in my past life. This time around, let's see how the tables will turn.

Fifteen minutes later, Madelyn arrived at the hotel lobby.

Janessa swiftly waved at Madelyn and trotted over to link arms with her, pretending to be the best of friends with her. “Let's go shopping, Madelyn. I saw a beautiful dress in a boutique a few days ago. I really want it... Madelyn, you've always thought I have good taste, haven't you?”

Madelyn flashed a smile that didn't reach her eyes. She knew all too well that Janessa was once again expecting her to foot the bill. This was exactly what had happened in her previous life, where she was practically Janessa's personal ATM.

Nevertheless, after everything she had experienced, she would no longer be foolish enough to let Janessa manipulate her.

With a weary expression, Madelyn looked at Janessa. “I'm sorry, but I'll pass. I'm a bit tired from last night and I'm not really up for anything, so I think I'll head home and rest first.”

Janessa's expression froze. She didn't expect Madelyn to turn her down, and once she registered what Madelyn was talking about, her features almost contorted.

“Oh, how could I forget about that? Of course you'll be tired after what happened last night. Be careful on your way then,” Janessa said with an awkward smile.

Madelyn paid her no heed. As she hailed a cab to leave, she distinctly felt a malevolent gaze boring into her from behind.

In the car, Madelyn massaged her temples. As she began to relax, she thought of Sebastian.

In her past life, he began keeping his distance from her after what transpired the previous night. He had never even set foot in the marital home prepared by both of their families.

In her previous life, she had broken his heart. Hence, in this life, she was determined to win him back.

I must succeed.

Chapter 3 Dream On

Madelyn glanced at her phone to check the time, speculating that Sebastian should be at the office by now.

Making up her mind, Madelyn asked the driver to turn around.

A few minutes later, she found herself standing in front of Lockhart Group's building.

Glancing up at the towering skyscraper, Madelyn couldn't help but squint as the sunlight hit the glass exterior of the building, refracting a dazzling light.

Sebastian was in the CEO's office, located at the very top floor.

Madelyn entered the grand hall, heading straight for the exclusive elevator reserved for a privileged few. Those in the hall recognized her identity and didn't dare to stop her.

She made her way straight to the top floor. Upon reaching the assistant's office, Sebastian's assistant Malcolm Schultz was taken aback upon seeing Madelyn.

“Ms. Thornton... No, I should address you as Mrs. Lockhart now. How come you're here, Mrs. Lockhart?” Malcolm rose, so surprised that he stammered.

In the past, Madelyn never deigned to set foot in Lockhart Group, a sentiment that she had once verbally expressed.

Every time she visited, chaos would ensue in the company, and Malcolm was always the one who had to clean up the mess and bear the brunt of Sebastian's anger. Therefore, he was afraid of Madelyn.

Madelyn evidently remembered the horrible things she used to do.

In fact, Malcolm had been nice to her in her previous life. He had even defended her because of Sebastian.

However, she had harbored a deep aversion toward Malcolm.

Looking back, she was filled with regret.

Hence, her attitude changed for the better, and she asked gently, “Is Sebastian around?”

Malcolm was clearly taken aback, seemingly unaccustomed to the change in her demeanor.

Furthermore, she used to call Sebastian by his full name, never as intimate as she did now.

Nevertheless, he responded truthfully, “Mr. Lockhart is in a meeting.”

Madelyn nodded. “I'll go in and wait for him then. You carry on with your work.”

After speaking, she headed straight for the CEO's office.

Malcolm was stunned. For a moment, he almost questioned if Madelyn had gone mad.

However, he quickly regained his composure and busied himself catering to Madelyn's every need, serving her tea and attending to her diligently. He was afraid that if she got upset, she might cause trouble again.

Three hours later, after finishing his meeting, Sebastian returned to the top floor. Noticing the complicated look on Malcolm's face, he frowned and pushed the door open.

Madelyn was lounging comfortably on the guest couch, flipping through a magazine in her hand.

Sebastian's frown deepened, and his tone was icy cold when he spoke. “Why are you here? What do you want?”

Upon hearing that, Madelyn put down the magazine she was holding and sat upright. As soon as her gaze met Sebastian's, she couldn't look away.

He stood tall and sturdy, and his well-tailored suit highlighted his outstanding physique. His features were distinct, his lips thin and tightly pursed as his eyebrows slightly furrowed. Even the displeased look on his face was incredibly pleasing to the eye.

Madelyn instinctively ignored the imposing icy aura that surrounded him.

This man is so attractive. To say his looks could captivate the whole world wouldn't be an exaggeration.

Madelyn couldn't help but berate herself in silence. Had I been blind back then? Why on earth did I let such a good man go? I was such a fool!

“Do I need a reason to visit? It's almost noon. Let's go grab some lunch together.”

With a playful smile curling the corners of her lips, Madelyn snuggled up to the man beside her.

Her face, filled with smiles, drew closer. Seeing her act so out of character, Sebastian furrowed his brows and scoffed coldly. “What now? Concocting some scheme to break off our engagement? Let me tell you, it's too late for that! I advise you to give up on that idea immediately!”

The icy tone carried an undeniable authority, which left Madelyn momentarily stunned.

He's so indifferent! But I can only blame my past self for being too much of a nuisance. It's no wonder he'd think like that and say such things.

Madelyn didn't get upset. Still wearing a smile, she took a few steps forward and wrapped her arms around his neck, clinging to him. “Don't forget what you just said. I'll take your word for it. So, are you going to join me for lunch? If not, I guess I'll ask Christopher out instead.”

Sebastian's face fell, and a hint of hostility could be discerned in his expression.

Madelyn shuddered in fear upon noticing that.

However, her purpose for going to the company was Sebastian. Having already resorted to provocation, there was no reason for her to give up halfway.

Moreover, she had indeed been causing a lot of trouble and had multiple tricks up her sleeve in the past, so it was understandable that Sebastian was on his guard. Hence, she had to take it slow and start by getting close to him,

No matter the approach, she must bridge the gap between them and build a close relationship with him.

With that in mind, Madelyn had no choice but to continue clinging to the man's neck, waiting for his response.

Sebastian narrowed his eyes, giving her a cold stare. He couldn't comprehend what game this woman was playing.

After a moment, he pried Madelyn's arms off him, turned around, and grabbed the car keys from his desk. Walking out first, he asked, “What do you feel like eating?”

Madelyn's smile widened when he agreed. She quickly caught up to him and took his hand. “I'm not sure. How about you choose for me?”

Sebastian pursed his thin lips and shook her hand off without a word.

Madelyn pouted, noticing that Malcolm was standing by the door. An idea popped up in her mind, and in the next instant, she turned and linked arms with Malcolm.

Sebastian observed with an expression. Before Malcolm could even react, Sebastian had grabbed Madelyn's hand and placed it back on his arm.

Madelyn chuckled to herself. He might seem aloof, but he still cares about me. I believe I'll be able to win his heart someday!

Malcolm froze as he observed the couple's interaction. It took him a long while to regain his composure and take note of the love in the air.

For a moment, he thought his eyes were playing tricks on him, for everything was just too surreal.

In the past, Madelyn would never get close to Sebastian. Has she lost her mind today?

Chapter 4 The Madelyn In The Past

The sun was blazing.

When the black Rolls-Royce came to a halt, Madelyn eagerly climbed out of the car and went into a nearby restaurant, dragging the man behind her.

It was a Clusian restaurant she had gone to before. Although she had only been there once, the authenticity of its dishes had left a lasting impression. The local cuisine was particularly notable for its genuine flavors.

When ordering the food, Madelyn handed the menu to Sebastian, who was sitting across from her. “You can choose. I have difficulty making decisions.”

Sebastian nonchalantly chose around seven to eight dishes.

The dishes were soon served.

Madelyn picked up her fork and began to savor the food, but after only a few bites, she was shocked. Every dish he ordered was her favorite.

Her heart skipped a beat, and she was nearly brought to tears.

She was surprised that Sebastian even remembered all her favorite foods.

But I don't know his preferences at all! How I wish I could slap myself!

Seeing that she had stopped eating, Sebastian tasted the food and asked, “Why did you stop eating? Is it not to your liking?”

Madelyn sniffled, responding in a soft voice, “No. It's delicious.”

She immediately began digging in, albeit distractedly. Her gaze was fixated on the man across from her.

Sebastian quickly grew uncomfortable under her gaze. Setting down his fork, he frowned and inquired, “Come on, spill it. What are you really up to? Have you decided playing hardball won't work, so you're trying a roundabout approach instead?”

Madelyn was left speechless by the question.

I'm just trying to figure out what are his favorite foods.

However, she didn't voice these thoughts. After all, his skepticism stemmed from her own misbehavior. Even if she did tell him the truth, he wouldn't have believed her.

Madelyn didn't respond directly. Instead, she changed the topic and said calmly, “I'm planning to return to Lockhart Villa tonight. Would you... like to come back with me?”

It was Sebastian's turn to be shocked. He clearly hadn't expected her to say such a thing.

From what he knew about Madelyn, she would have stayed as far away from Lockhart Villa as possible. Yet, now, she was the one inviting him to return to Lockhart Villa.

After much deliberation, Sebastian finally concluded that she indeed had ulterior motives.

He stood up abruptly, his tone cold. “No matter what you're planning, you won't succeed! Because I will never agree!”

With that, he turned and walked away. His tall figure disappeared at the door.

Madelyn couldn't help but sigh. Looks like I'm too eager. That was too abrupt. I'll have to take things one step at a time.

After dinner, Madelyn returned to Lockhart Villa.

It felt like an eternity since she last returned to Lockhart Villa after dying once. However, everything that had happened in the past was still vivid in sight.

Upon entering the villa, she nodded at the butler, Lydia, with a friendly smile.

Lydia stood frozen in shock upon seeing Madelyn.

Madelyn merely smiled without saying a word upon seeing how astonished Lydia was. She then ascended the stairs.

Pushing open the bedroom door, Madelyn felt a warm sensation filling her heart as she looked around at the familiar setup and decorations in the room.

The room was decorated according to her preferences, almost replicating everything from her bedroom in the Thornton residence.

Apparently, Sebastian put a lot of thought into arranging this bedroom. However, she had been too unappreciative in the past.

Madelyn was in the midst of reminiscing when her phone began to ring. She picked it up and saw that the incoming call was from Janessa.

She answered the call, and a gentle, alluring voice came through. “Madelyn, where are you right now?”

Madelyn didn't hide the truth. “I'm at Lockhart Villa.”

Janessa was silent for a couple of seconds before speaking again, her voice noticeably sharper. “Why on earth did you go back there? What are you thinking?”

Madelyn sneered, her voice steady as she replied, “This is my marital home. It's only natural for me to return. Besides, I can't really go back home now. Knowing my father's temper, even if I did return, he'd just send me back here.”

Janessa tightened her grip on her phone. She was almost certain that something was definitely off with Madelyn.

Once she returns to Lockhart Villa, she'll have more opportunities to spend time with Sebastian. That's the last thing I want to see. I will not allow that!

Janessa's gaze hardened as she tightly gripped her phone, saying, “Well, of course. You misunderstood me. That's not what I meant. The reason I called is just to let you know that there's a class reunion tomorrow, and Christopher will be there, too.”

Madelyn couldn't help scoffing. Janessa's just way too nervous. If I remember correctly, Janessa set me up after I had a few drinks during the alumni gathering in my previous life. I don't know what came over me back then, but I ended up in a hotel room with Christopher. To make matters worse, we were caught in the act by Sebastian.

The incident escalated to the point where even the Thorntons and Lockharts became aware of it. Things turned ugly, and ultimately, the elders intervened to suppress the situation.

Madelyn scoffed inwardly.

She's trying to use the same old trick again, huh? She has no idea that the past Madelyn, who used to be at her beck and call, has already died. Since that's what she wants to do, I'll happily play along.

Chapter 5 Never Let Him Down

The following afternoon, Madelyn pushed open the door to her walk-in closet, intending to pick out an appropriate outfit to wear to the class reunion dinner.

The moment she opened it, she was stunned to see a wide variety of clothes of all shapes, colors, and styles.

The walk-in closet was filled to the brim with haute couture, all imported from abroad. Sebastian had personally instructed designers to prepare these for her. Yet, in her previous life, she did not appreciate his efforts and didn't even bother sparing these exquisite pieces a glance.

Only then did she realize these clothes were all of her favorite styles and were incredibly flattering to her figure.

Knocks sounded at the door, and Lydia arrived carrying a tray of snacks.

She set down the tray, noticing Madelyn was picking out clothes. Despite her surprise, an amicable smile still spread across her face. She could sense that Madelyn had changed.

Upon seeing Lydia, Madelyn seized the opportunity to ask her, “Lydia, did Sebastian have someone send these clothes?”

Lydia chuckled. She had always been fond of Madelyn, and since the latter was behaving surprisingly amiable and cheerful today, she told her the truth. “Yes. Mr. Lockhart personally selected all these designs. He didn't want me to tell you, probably worried that you might not like them and his efforts would go down the drain. But, I think you must already know Mr. Lockhart's feelings,” she said, laughing softly.

Madelyn cast her gaze downward, sighing inwardly. It's just as I expected. I must have been out of my mind back then, mistaking sincerity for pretense and pushing away those who truly care about me. Such a wonderful man was right by my side. How could I have missed it? Luckily, I've come back to life. I won't miss out again in this lifetime. I will never let him down.

After spending a long time deciding, Madelyn settled on an elegant yet stunning dress. She held it up against herself, gauging how she might look in it. Turning to Lydia, she asked, “What do you think? Is it nice?”

Lydia smiled. “With a face as stunning as yours, you'd look beautiful in anything.”

Madelyn was embarrassed. “You flatter me, Lydia.”

Lydia took a few steps inside and opened a wardrobe. “Mrs. Lockhart, there are high heels and designer handbags in here that match the dress. There's also quite a bit of jewelry. Feel free to wear whatever you like.”

As she spoke, she eagerly brought out several jewelry boxes, presenting them to Madelyn.

Madelyn felt moved and said gratefully, “Thanks, Lydia.”

With a bright smile, Lydia responded, “If Mr. Lockhart sees you wearing the clothes he has prepared, he will be delighted.”

Madelyn pondered for a moment before swiftly slipping into the light purple dress she had selected, admiring her reflection in the full-length mirror. Handing her phone to Lydia, she flashed a charming smile and said, “Could you take a full-body picture of me, please?”

Before the camera, Madelyn donned a graceful yet endearing smile, her clear, captivating eyes possessing the power to effortlessly captivate hearts.

After the photo was taken, Madelyn immediately sent it to Sebastian and texted him, asking: How do I look?

She waited for a while without receiving a response, but she didn't mind, assuming he was busy.

Madelyn was halfway through applying light makeup before the mirror when Janessa's call came through again.

“Madelyn, are you getting ready? It's just a simple class reunion. You don't need to dress up too much. Just wear your usual attire. I just wanted to remind you that the gathering is about to start soon. Remember to arrive on time.”

Madelyn listened to her in silence, not responding to a single word she said, and then hung up the phone.

She began sneering inwardly from the moment she answered that phone call, for Janessa had also said the same exact words in her previous life. However, when she reached the venue back then, she saw Janessa all dolled up, stealing the spotlight. As for Madelyn, standing next to Janessa, seemed dull and unremarkable in contrast.

Today, I'm not going to listen to her.

When Madelyn left the house, she made her way to Sebastian's garage and selected a sleek, cool-looking Porsche sports car.

She drove all the way to the exclusive club.

Upstairs, within the private room, people were clinking their glasses clinked and exchanging toasts.

When Madelyn walked in, she immediately sensed everyone's gaze shifting toward her. They were all in awe.

Her classmates didn't recognize her and were all busy guessing who she was.

With a faint smile gracing her lips, Madelyn spoke. “I apologize for being late.”

“Is that you, Madelyn? You look absolutely stunning today!” someone exclaimed in surprise.

Everyone was taken aback. Though they all knew Madelyn was pretty, she had never put much effort into her appearance before. In fact, she was often a bit unkempt, and her outfits could best be described as eccentric. However, no one expected her to be drop-dead gorgeous once she made an effort to dress up.

She was draped in the softest lilac gown, its delicate hue accentuating her flawless figure. The elegant length of her neck, the low cut of her dress revealing a generous expanse of smooth, alabaster skin, the graceful curve of her chest, her slender waist, and the hint of her long legs—all combined to captivate the onlookers.

Her features exuded natural elegance, enhanced by a touch of light makeup, rendering her even more charming and captivating. Whether it was her gentle smile or a subtle shift of her body, she epitomized grace, her light purple gown adding to her ethereal presence.

Among the myriad of astonished gazes, one stood out—a stare brimming with jealousy.

Janessa downed a gulp of wine. She had been basking in the glow of others' compliments, having worn a costly designer dress specifically for this gathering. However, the moment Madelyn made her appearance, she outshone everyone else, and just like that, Janessa's spotlight was stolen away.

The room was abuzz with chatter; all singing praises for Madelyn. Even the women who were originally surrounding Janessa were drawn to Madelyn.

“Madelyn, you looked stunning today. This dress looks perfect on you! It must have been quite expensive, right?”

“Yeah! May I touch it?”

“Wow, this fabric feels so comfortable! And it's gorgeous, too!”

“Madelyn, so many men would've fallen for you if you had dressed up before this!”

Madelyn nodded at every one of them as a greeting. She then picked up a glass of champagne and delicately took a sip.

Thinking back to how she used to dress herself, she found it amusing. I must have been crazy to have believed what Janessa had said.

She remembered distinctly that Janessa had told her that Christopher preferred the unconventional, advising her to dress according to his tastes. Back then, she had been surprised by Christopher's kinky preferences of favoring women in heavy metal attire.

Only then did she realize that was all part of Janessa's deceptive scheme.

Madelyn looked up once again, only to find Christopher was also present at the scene. He fixed his gaze on her, unable to conceal the admiration in his eyes.

At that moment, Janessa approached with a frown and asked, “Why are you dressed like this? It's a bit too formal, don't you think?”

Madelyn smiled. “Didn't you ask me to dress simply? It's such a hassle to wear those heavy metal clothes I usually wear.”

Wearing a stiff expression, Janessa let out an awkward laugh. “No, that's not what I meant. You look great in this outfit, Madelyn. I've been waiting for you for a while. Come on, I've saved a spot for you.”

Madelyn glanced over, noting the still unoccupied seat right next to Christopher.

The novel

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