Ch. 541..550
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 541
“Are you leaving?” Madelyn’s voice rang out. Ethan’s eyes met hers, momentarily devoid of emotion. But as they trailed to her bandaged hand, a shadow of concern passed over his face. “…Our engagement will continue,” he said slowly, choosing his words.
“I was the one who proposed. To abruptly call it off now would tarnish my family’s reputation. But,” he hesitated, “I can’t promise it will last indefinitely. From now on, your world is limited to school and home.”
Madelyn remained silent, her eyes fixed on him. Without a word, she moved to the table and gently placed the envelope she held onto its surface.
In a calm tone, she said, “Your car broke down. It’s in need of repairs. Your servant retrieved this envelope from inside.” She paused. “Maybe consider drinking less. I’m heading to my room.”
She began to walk away when Ethan’s voice stopped her. “Wait.”
Madelyn turned around. “Did you need something else?”
“Don’t you want to know what’s in there?” Ethan asked. “It’s your personal property,” she responded, eyes unwavering. “I have no right to pry without your consent.”
Closing the distance between them, Ethan met her gaze. “Then consider this your invitation. Open it.” For a long moment, Madelyn remained motionless. Ethan squinted. “What’s the matter? Are you scared?”
Then Madelyn unfolded the envelope.
“See what’s inside,” he challenged. Slowly, she slid out a set of photographs. Ethan scrutinized her, expecting shock or despair. Instead, he was met with an unsettling serenity. He probed, “Well? Anything to say?”
Madelyn’s voice was unwavering. “Is this the reason for your recent absences?” She glanced at the photographs, then back to him. “I happened to see one of these when it fell earlier. My first thought? That you were trying to dig into my past, to uncover things perhaps best left buried.
She continued, “If something bothered you, why not confront me and seek explanations? But you chose silence, Ethan. Does it mean you deem my actions beyond justification? That you place your trust in Ms. lolie over me?”
Madelyn paused, then continued, ” Without a foundation of trust, our relationship stands on shaky ground. If you wish to postpone our engagement, so be it. But this cold war achieves nothing. Father mentioned your recent meetings with Ms. Jolie. Secrets, Ethan, breed mistrust.”
Returning her gaze to him, her voice softened but retained its edge. “There are things I’d never lie to you about, and in return, I’d rather not be played.”
Ethan felt an inexplicable sense of panic, as if something was slipping away, something he wanted to grasp but couldn’t.
Madelyn continued, “Whether it’s my fault or some other reason, if you want to cancel the engagement, go ahead. Prof. Monet has an opportunity to teach at the Paris Art Academy for three months as a guest lecturer. Three days ago, he… asked me if I wanted to go with him!”
This was undeniably a once-in-a- lifetime chance. The slot was singular, and not just anyone could land such an opportunity. Internally, Madelyn had been wrestling with the decision to accept or decline. Choosing to go would equate to a prolonged separation from Ethan.
“If you haven’t made up your mind,” she said, determination in her voice, ‘ I’ll seize this opportunity and depart the day after tomorrow. I’ll be back in three months’ time. If, by then, you still desire a life with me, then so be it. Three months should suffice for both of us to discern our true feelings and evaluate our compatibility. I never demanded you forget her; it’s only natural she holds a space in your heart, given that I entered your life at a later juncture…”
Madelyn smiled gently, her expression toward Ethan as tender as ever. “It’s getting late, and I have classes tomorrow. I’ll go rest now. We can talk when you’re sober.”
Back in her room, Madelyn took a shower, turned off the lights, and quickly went to sleep. Today, Ginger was nowhere to be found, and Madelyn felt the room was empty. Without Ginger around, something seemed to be missing.
In the middle of the night, Madelyn was in that half-awake, half-asleep state.
After a while, she suddenly heard a faint sound. She felt the bed next to her sink down. A hand rested on her waist, and an unpleasant smell of alcohol filled her nostrils.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 542
Ethan’s voice, tinged with regret echoed from behind, “I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have gone behind your back, nor should I have kept you in the dark. My fears got the better of me.’
“I was afraid that once I found out those things, you’d leave without hesitation, and I’d be powerless to stop you,” he confessed, “I’ve never wanted to hurt you, not even with a harsh word… Madelyn… I love you! The more I love you, the harder it is for me to accept the truth I uncovered. I never intended for you to leave. Those words about canceling the engagement, they were just said out of anger.” 2
His voice broke slightly, “I… I only have you! Please don’t go, regardless of whether it’s true or not. I don’t care anymore. I just want you to stay by my side. I don’t want to lose you.”
Ethan had lost so many people in his life; he didn’t want to lose the one person he cared about the most.
Ethan enveloped her in a tight embrace, his voice trembling with desperation. “Tell me it’s not true, please? Even if it means lying to me.” The vulnerability in his tone was palpable. In the pitch-black room, Madelyn opened her eyes, surprisingly calm. her emotions
“Alright, Ethan. The girl in those photos isn’t me. But you have to promise me one thing – from now on, no matter what transpires, you won’t bottle things up. Share with me, okay?”
It was true, the person in those images wasn’t her. But what she hadn’t revealed was the way Zach had once pressured her into donning those intimate apparel. Back then, she could only comply with Zach’s commands.
“Okay,” Ethan replied. Madelyn said, “You should take a shower and get some sleep. The smell isn’t pleasant.”
“Just let me hold you a little longer,” Ethan requested. Madelyn thought she really should get some sleep, or she would struggle to wake up tomorrow. She closed her eyes, feeling a weight lifted off her chest, and soon drifted off.
Two hours later, in a drowsy state, someone turned her over. She smelled a faint, refreshing scent of shower gel and immediately fell back asleep. Three days flew by, and it was soon time for the exam.
On a scorching day, the entrance to Ventropolis High School was crowded with parents, all chattering nervously. They were all eagerly awaiting this important day. Ethan turned to Madelyn and said, “Do your best. I’ll pick you up when it’s over. ”
“Got it.”
“No need to be too nervous.’ “I know.” Madelyn replied, stepping out of the car. In truth, she wasn’t very nervous at all.
Since that night, their relationship had returned to how it used to be. Yet, a noticeable change was Ethan’s intensified need to be near her, as if he wished to cherish every shared moment.
Suddenly, the blaring horn of a bus broke through her thoughts. As it came to a halt and its doors swung open, Madelyn cast a backward glance. As she was about to resume her path, a face from her past froze her in place. She was startled, her face turning pale.
‘Cecilia Samford!’
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming 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.”
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 544
“Okay.” With that, Jadie stepped out of the car. Kevin drove away. “The Arnolds have no intention of calling off the engagement with Ms. Jent. They’ll proceed with the engagement as planned in three days.
“Mr. Jardin, I don’t understand why you want to ruin their engagement. Ms. Jent marrying into the Arnold family should be of no harm to you. And even if you want to ruin it, why not just tell the Arnold family about Ms. Jolie’s secrets directly? That way, we wouldn’t have to go through all of this.”
Zach seemed indifferent. He rested his hand on the car window, tapped his temple with his index finger, and shared his thoughts with Kevin. “Those photos were just a test for Ethan, to see how much he can forgive when it comes to Madelyn.”
So far, it seemed like Ethan was truly moved by Madelyn. Most people can’t easily forgive betrayal. Ethan’s willingness to forgive Madelyn appeared to be within Zach’s expectations.
Zach continued, “And Madelyn just wants to escape from me, from the Jent family. That’s why she can tolerate Ethan Arnold and Donna Jolie’s past. Unfortunately, she still doesn’t understand me. Those photos were just the beginning.
“No matter how powerful the Arnold family is, Ethan is just a rich kid raised in luxury. He doesn’t know the darkness of human hearts. He hasn’t dealt with predators lurking in the shadows for years, the kind of predators who can set countless traps for their prey.”
Even the most upright person can’t withstand the hidden daggers of villains. In the end, they meet a tragic fate. Zach continued, “Donna Jolie’s secrets are indeed a potent weapon, but having them alone won’t suffice. Now is not the time for them to surface.
“What I want… is for Madelyn to remember deeply. As long as she can’t forget, there’s no turning back for her. I’ve known her for over a decade. Ethan’s first betrayal might be forgiven, but the second, the third? If Madelyn accumulates enough disappointment in him, she’ll naturally leave.”
Kevin conceded, “…Are you planning to reveal Ms. Jolie’s secrets at the engagement party?”
“I’ve said it before, these things can only surface at the right time.”
Madelyn and Ethan were just getting engaged, not married. If they were getting married, Zach might do something even worse. He had never been denied what he wanted. If he couldn’t have Madelyn, he didn’t mind ruining her, just like what Hayson did to that woman.
Two days passed quickly with exams. When it was over, the students took graduation photos together. Lem was planning a dinner, but Madelyn didn’t join; she had to rush for photos to be used the day after tomorrow at the engagement.
Ethan agreed that after their engagement, she could go to the Paris Art Academy for three months. Just three months, and Ethan planned to accompany her in Paris. Because he didn’t want to miss her.
In the car, Ethan was on the phone with Donna. “…I won’t call off the engagement. Leaving Venturia is your only choice; this is my utmost patience with you.”
On the other end of the phone, Donna screamed hysterically, “I ended up prison, suffered, and got hurt all because of her. I heard it with my own ears; it was all Madelyn’s orders, those people tortured me.
I almost died in prison! And now you tell me you believe her?! What makes you believe her?” in Ethan replied, “I’ll find out the mastermind behind what happened to you in prison. Madelyn would never do such a thing.”
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 545
When Madelyn approached, Ethan hung up his phone. The weather outside was warm, and many students had already finished their exams and were being picked up by their parents. Madelyn clutched her pencil case against her forehead and quickly opened the front passenger door, hopping into the car.
Inside the car, it was pleasantly cool. Ethan handed her a bottle of cold water. “Just finished your exam. How do you feel?”
Madelyn took a sip, and the heat that clung to her body quickly faded away. Not too bad, not as hard as I imagined.”
Ethan picked her up and drove to the pre-booked photography studio.
Madelyn rarely had her picture taken throughout her life, and this was one of the very few times. By the time the session was over, she was exhausted, and her makeup was still on as she cuddled with a pillow in the car, dozing off.
As Ethan drove, he noticed her body tilting toward him. He reached out to support her face. When they hit a red light, he pulled over to the side of the road, adjusted her seat, and let her lie down comfortably, peacefully asleep.
They arrived at the Arnold residence smoothly, and Madelyn hadn’t woken up the entire way. Ethan carried her in his arms from the passenger seat and walked into the foyer. A servant approached, “Mr. Arnold…” When she saw who Ethan was carrying, she immediately fell silent.
“Save it for later,” Ethan said, carrying Madelyn upstairs. Inside the room, Ethan carefully placed her on the bed when his phone in his pocket began to ring. Seeing the caller ID, he swiftly declined the call and switched off his phone.
With exams approaching and so much happening these past few days, Madelyn hadn’t had a decent night’s sleep in ages.
Ethan walked over to the dressing table, rummaging through a pile of bottles and jars for a while before finally locating a bottle of makeup remover and some cleansing water. He scrutinized the ingredient list before choosing the gentler makeup remover, then walked back to the bed, gently removing the makeup from her face, bit by bit.
Madelyn caught a whiff of citrus, her voice soft and drowsy as she opened her eyes, “What’s going on?”
Ethan whispered soothingly, “Sleeping with makeup isn’t great for your skin. I’m taking it off, and you’ll feel better soon.”
“Mmm.”
After removing her makeup, Ethan carefully cleaned her face with water and applied moisturizer. Having finished, he planted a kiss on her lips and said, “Goodnight.” He left, content.
In the study, Ethan was on the phone. Leyton reported, “Ms. Jolie has refused to leave Venturia, and… she’s currently missing. Do you want me to try and bring her back?”
Ethan’s gaze darkened. “No need. Let her be. I need everything to go perfectly on the engagement day.”
“Yes, Mr. Arnold! A few days ago, Azure Corporation rejected our stock acquisition offer, so as per your instructions, I’ve dealt with any companies still working with them. Many have already terminated their collaborations, and ongoing projects have come to a halt.
“If Azure Corporation can’t complete the development of the Alma property on schedule within six months, they’ll have to pay ten times the penalty.
“Zach Jardin applied for a substantial sum of money from SilverLinc Bank three days ago, likely to cover their financial shortfall.”
Ethan chuckled, “Then inform SilverLinc Bank that they must not approve his application without my consent.”
Leyton replied, “Yes, sir.”
‘Ten times the penalty? Even if the entire Jent family is put on the line, he won’t be able to make up that shortfall, Ethan thought to himself.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 546
At the Young residence, after learning about Ethan’s engagement, Frida dialed Evelyn’s number with a mixture of frustration and concern. “Evelyn, why didn’t you tell me about Ethan’s engagement? I’m his mother, don’t I have the right to know about something this significant?”
Evelyn replied coldly, “This is Ethan’s decision, and I have no authority to interfere. He has finally managed to emerge from the shadows, and if you truly care for his well-being as a mother, you should refrain from disturbing him.
Evelyn added, “You and our family have no connection anymore. I’m only answering your call out of respect for the fact that you used to be his mother.
She continued, “When Ethan was just five or six years old, you tormented him, locked him in the basement, nearly taking his life. Your remorse now is too little, too late. Don’t call again in the future, hmph!”
The call ended abruptly. Frida slumped on the couch, utterly defeated, covering her face with her hands.
Yvonne walked over and sat beside her, concerned. “Mom… are you okay? The doctor said you shouldn’t be exposed to any more emotional stress. Let’s talk to Ethan sincerely. He will forgive us. If you want to attend his engagement party, I can call Madelyn right now. With her help, he might let us come.”
‘After all, it is his engagement party, and if neither set of parents attended, what kind of engagement party will it be?’ Yvonne thought to herself, ‘It’s been so many years; Ethan should let go.’
Yvonne’s words seemed to offer Frida a glimmer of hope. She looked up, tears glistening in her eyes. “Yvonne, I’m entrusting this matter to you. I owe your brother so much.”
“I understand, Mom. Don’t worry; Ethan will forgive you one day,” Yvonne reassured her. Frida couldn’t help but think, ‘I’ve realized my mistake. I’ve always wanted to make it up to him! Why won’t he give me a chance?’
Back then, she had a tough time dealing with Owen’s betrayal. He cheated on her with Sylvia, staying out all night and even having a child with Sylvia.
Because of that, she started drinking heavily and couldn’t get herself together. Frida chose to divorce Owen because she didn’t want to cause any more pain to his son. In her condition, leaving Ethan with the Arnold family seemed like the only choice.
After the divorce, she dedicated most of her time to therapy. Leaving Venturia was also part of her treatment. Over the years, she had never truly overcome her guilt toward Ethan. Her illness had worsened with time, and during her absence of several months, Frida had visibly aged.
On the day of the engagement party, Madelyn was dressed in simple luxury, wearing a customized white evening gown that exuded grace and elegance. She walked arm in arm with Ethan, gracefully weaving through the important guests in the hotel ballroom.
During the toasts, Ethan did most of the drinking, while Madelyn stuck to small sips. Nervousness made her palms a little sweaty as she responded to well-wishers.
Ethan, appearing a bit tipsy, held her hand reassuringly. “No need to worry, you don’t have to be nervous. I’m right here.”
Madelyn nodded and managed a faint smile. Today, she looked exceptionally beautiful, standing out among everyone in the room. Even the most famous celebrity in Ventropolis couldn’t compare to her. Every detail, from her face to her hair, was perfectly taken care of.
At the table where Ethan’s relatives were seated, Madelyn only recognized Evelyn. Approaching their table, Madelyn felt Zach’s intense gaze fixed on her. She became tense all over, and her mind went blank.
Beside Zach was Jadie, wearing a simple dress that highlighted her pure and captivating features. Her long, straight hair added to her charm, making her a perfect match for Zach.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 547
The number of attendees from the Arnold family was not extensive. Ethan’s father, Owen, was notably absent, and the reason behind his absence remained a mystery to those outside the Arnold family. However, nobody dared to ask or gossip about the most prominent family in Ventropolis. In high society circles, everyone knew about the dramatic divorce between Frida Young and Owen Arnold.
Owen had two brothers and a sister, all of whom were at the event today. They usually managed different parts of the Arnold Corporation and rarely appeared in public. Madelyn didn’t often cross paths with them in her daily life.
Madelyn greeted each of them one by one and received quite a few gifts. She passed these gifts on to the accompanying servers. The total value of these gifts could easily cover the down payment on a luxury apartment in Ventropolis.
Materially, Ethan spared no expense when it came to Madelyn. She even knew the combination to the safe in his room, which contained nothing but gold bars and cash.
Zach leaned in and whispered something to Jadie. She set down her glass, and Zach promptly replaced it with a new one filled with non- alcoholic fruit juice.
The atmosphere appeared calm, but beneath the surface, tensions were simmering. Hayson squinted his eyes, feigning a smile. “I’ll be entrusting Madelyn to you from now on. She hasn’t endured any hardships from childhood to adulthood. She’s the one I cherish the most. If she ever acts spoiled, I hope you’ll be patient with her. She’s still young.”
Ethan had slicked-back hair and wore a handsome black suit that accentuated his charm. Earlier, he had removed the scar on his neck from a tattoo, which Madelyn had expertly covered with foundation. It was a task typically assigned to a makeup artist, but Ethan had insisted that only she do it.
Ethan gazed affectionately at Madelyn. “Madelyn is going to be my wife soon. No matter what she does, I’ll naturally dote on her. At her age, being a bit willful is to be expected.”
Jadie approached with a glass in her hands, a perfectly placed smile on her lips. “Madelyn, congratulations. You look truly beautiful today, and I’d like to raise a toast to you. I wish you all the happiness in the world. Zach and I will always be family to you. When you have the time, make sure to visit us often. We would be delighted.”
Madelyn clinked her glass with Jadie’s. “Thank you, I will.”
Zach walked up to Jadie, dressed in a well-fitted suit, exuding composure. He put his arm around her shoulders. “I can’t believe how fast Madelyn has grown up. If you ever face any difficulties in the future, know that I’ll be on your side.”
Ethan smirked and stepped forward, slightly turning to stand beside Madelyn. “Madelyn is now part of the Arnold family. Anyone who mistreats her, I won’t let them off. Mr. Jardin, you need not worry about that.”
Zach smiled in response, saying nothing. A waiter approached and whispered something in Madelyn’s ear.
Madelyn nodded, her gaze apologetic as she looked at the group. “I have an important call to take. I’ll be right back. Ethan replied, “Go ahead.”
Madelyn left to retrieve the phone held by the waiter and made her way to the quiet garden outside. The entire hotel had been transformed into a romantic and dreamy setting for the engagement party, with stunning tables and intricate details. Each table was adorned with floral arrangements in pastel shades.
The phone rang again shortly after she hung up. Madelyn answered, “Hello?”
“It’s me,” came Yvonne’s voice. Madelyn recognized Yvonne’s voice and asked, “Is there something you need?”
Yvonne replied, “Has the engagement party ended? I need to ask you a favor.” Even the usually proud Yvonne was speaking humbly to her for the first time.
Madelyn listened as Yvonne spoke, Madelyn, my mother wants to attend your engagement party. But if we just show up without warning, Ethan will be very upset, and his resentment toward her will only grow. So, could you please arrange for her to meet with you guys today? It’s her lifelong dream to see Ethan get engaged, married, and have children. This means the world to her… Will you help me with this, please?”
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“I…” Madelyn hesitated, feeling torn. Anything involving the Young family was a sensitive topic Ethan couldn’t handle easily.
“Madelyn, don’t you want my mother and Ethan to make up? Considering our relationship, you should start calling her Mom too. Aren’t we all family? So… right now, the only person who can talk to Ethan about this is you. You have to help us. Both my mother and I won’t forget your kindness,” Yvonne urged.
Madelyn stayed quiet for a while before slowly responding, “Yvonne, this isn’t as simple as it sounds. I’ll talk to Ethan later, but I can’t promise he’ll agree.”
“Madelyn Jent! Do you have to be like this? Do you even know how much my mother wishes to fix things with Ethan? Don’t you want to help us at all?
Yvonne tried to contain her frustration. Madelyn furrowed her beautiful brows.
“Yvonne, you have no idea what happened between them in the past. If she wants to bless us, we’ll appreciate her goodwill.”
“What’s going on? Whose phone call is it?” Ethan’s gentle voice came from behind. Madelyn placed the recently disconnected phone aside, debating whether or not to tell Ethan about it. Ultimately, she decided against it. Bringing up the Young family at this moment would only make him sad.
She shook her head and said, “It was Mya. She’s regretting not being able to make it to my engagement and was crying when she called.”
Ethan smiled, pulling her into his arms as he looked up at the bright moon in the sky. The weather was perfect that night, with a full moon and sparkling stars. In Ventropolis, it was rare to see such a clear night sky.
He said, “Madelyn, I’m so happy. You still belong to me, and from now on… I won’t ever let you go.”
Madelyn responded to his embrace, leaning against his chest and inhaling the scent of alcohol, not particularly pleasant but not entirely unpleasant. She replied softly, “Mmm.”
She hoped that from this point on, life would be free from Zach, Jadie, Jasmine, and Cecilia. “No more past traumas… many things are changing… this is enough! I just want to live a peaceful life like this forever.” her
On the other end of the phone, Frida anxiously asked Yvonne after she had finished the call, “How did it go? Did she agree?”
Yvonne suppressed her displeasure and smiled, “I just called. We can go over now.”
“Really? That’s great!” Frida’s chest, once tight with anxiety, immediately loosened, and she was overjoyed. She couldn’t contain her excitement. Glancing at her clothes, she asked, “Is this outfit suitable?”
“There’s nothing wrong with it; you look great.”
Frida smiled, “No, today is Ethan’s engagement day, and as his mother, I should dress up. This outfit is too plain; I’ll change into something better. I can’t embarrass Ethan with this; he won’t be pleased. You should change, too. Quickly freshen up; we’ll leave in half an hour.”
“Alright, Mom.”
For her mother’s sake, Yvonne had no choice but to agree. She thought to herself, ‘When we arrive, Ethan can’t just kick us out in front of all the guests.
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Evelyn excused herself from the engagement party early and went back to the Arnold residence. George handed her an envelope containing a document, saying, “Someone just said Ethan forgot to give this to you. The contents inside require your personal attention.”
Evelyn looked puzzled. “Is he learning to keep secrets from me now? You can all leave; I’ll take a look at it by myself.”
After the servants had left, only Marta, who had been with Evelyn for many years, remained by her side.
Evelyn sat down on the couch and opened the document. She took out a medical checkup report with Madelyn’s name on it. When she reached the last section, her eyes widened, and her breath quickened. “This…” Even the hand holding the report trembled.
“What’s wrong, Mrs. Arnold Sr.?”
Marta noticed that something was seriously amiss with Evelyn, possibly a sign of a heart attack. She quickly retrieved a bottle of pills and gave one to Evelyn.
Evelyn’s breathing gradually steadied. Marta picked up the scattered marriage examination report from the floor and, upon reading its contents, was horrified. “What? Miss Jent has no uterus?!”
“How is that possible? Does Ethan know about this? Why didn’t anyone tell me such a significant matter earlier?!” Evelyn said urgently, “Call him! Call him right now. Why wasn’t I informed about this earlier?!”
To avoid further distressing Evelyn, Marta quickly put away the report. She dialed the phone on the tea table, pressed the buttons one by one, and tried calling several numbers, but no one answered.
Just then, a servant rushed in from outside and said, “Mrs. Arnold Sr., there’s a child outside who claims to be looking for his father.”
“Whose child is this, and how did he end up here? Take him to the police station immediately.” The servant insisted, “You should come and see for yourself.”
Evelyn went outside and found a little boy who appeared to be only four or five years old. He was wearing denim overalls and holding a teddy bear. He looked up at her and said, “Grandma… my mommy said I could find my daddy here. Can you tell me where my daddy is?”
“What’s your name?” Evelyn struggled to speak.
Marta also marveled, “He looks just like Ethan, like they were carved from the same mold. This can’t be possible!” Evelyn asked, “What’s your mother’s name?”
The little boy, in his innocent voice, replied, “My mommy’s name is…”
After hearing his response, the old lady suddenly paled and fainted. Chaos erupted throughout the Arnold residence.
“Quick, call Ethan!” The little boy stepped away and spoke to a woman. He wore a disappointed expression. “Mommy… Grandma doesn’t like me.”
“It’s okay, Grandma will come to like you. Let’s go back home for now. In a few days, Daddy will come to get us.”
“I understand, Mommy.”
The woman held the boy’s hand and walked into the darkness.
Ethan chatted and laughed with the guests in the business setting, and Madelyn had grown accustomed to such occasions, offering a polite smile as she mingled.
But then, the grand doors of the ballroom swung open, and all eyes turned in that direction. Frida Young had arrived. A hush fell over the room.
Madelyn glanced nervously at the man beside her, his demeanor suddenly oozing with gloom, his face contorted in extreme discomfort.
Yvonne trailed anxiously behind Frida. To hide her silver hair, Frida wore a stylish hat, exuding an air of elegant sophistication. She held a gift in her gloved hands as she made her way toward them.
Facing her, Frida appeared both anxious and teary-eyed, her inner thoughts running wild, ‘My boy has grown up. And he’s engaged!’
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 550
Frida produced the gift box in her hands and said, “Ethan, I apologize for my tardiness. I’ve prepared an engagement present for you, something I’ve carefully chosen. I hope both you and Madelyn will like it.”
“Ethan, Madelyn… Mom put a lot of thought into this gift,” Yvonne added.
Frida opened the box, revealing a four- piece dinnerware set inside. Many in the room recognized it as the work of the renowned artist Adam Burch from Venturia. His porcelain pieces were truly priceless.
A murmur of appreciation swept through the crowd. However, in the next instant, a loud crash echoed through the room.
Ethan raised his hand and forcefully knocked the gift to the ground. His face turned dark and icy. “Who invited you?
Get out!” He showed no mercy. Zach remained seated, calmly taking a sip of his drink. A faint smirk played on his lips.
The joyful atmosphere that had prevailed just moments ago was now shrouded in darkness. Most people watched in silence, not daring to make a sound. Frida’s smile faded into an expression of sadness and disappointment.
Yvonne quickly reacted, stepping forward and saying, “Madelyn invited us. I just spoke to her on the phone.” She turned to Madelyn, “Did you forget to tell Ethan that my mom and I were coming?”
Madelyn looked at Ethan, whose face had turned extremely grim, but she couldn’t find the words to speak.
Yvonne’s voice got louder. “Why didn’t you tell Ethan about this important thing? Look at what’s happening now, Madelyn. What were you thinking? Do you even know how special this gift is?”
Frida forced a strained smile. “It’s okay, Madelyn didn’t mean to forget. Maybe she just got too busy with all the guests.”
She turned to her son. “Ethan, if you don’t like the gift I got you, I can find another one.” As soon as she finished speaking, a sharp sound reverberated through the ballroom.
Smack! A powerful slap struck Yvonne across the face, the sound indicating it was no light hit. Her vision went dark for a moment as she covered her face, taking some time to calm down.
Jadie, who was nearby, jumped and leaned close to Zach, whispering, ” Zach, everything will be okay, right?”
Hayson gave Jadie a warning look, and she immediately stopped talking.
“Yvonne Young, be mindful of what you say. Who are you to say those things to Madelyn? Apologize!” Ethan stared at her.
Yvonne bit her lip, her gaze averted, refusing to speak. Frida chimed in, “Yes, Ethan is right. Yvonne, say sorry to Madelyn.” Yvonne retorted, “Why should I apologize to her? I won’t!”
Madelyn quickly reached out to Ethan. The situation was getting really bad, and it was making everyone uncomfortable.
She furrowed her brow, glancing at Yvonne and then at Ethan. “This is indeed my fault,” she began, struggling to find the right words.
“I did agree to have your mother at our engagement party today. It was my mistake, forgetting to tell you. Can you please not be angry about this?” Madelyn said, hoping to make things better. Madelyn hadn’t expected Yvonne to disregard her words; But no matter what, they were here now.
Ethan gazed deeply at her, the anger in his eyes still not fully dissipated. Although the icy atmosphere had thawed somewhat, his voice remained stern. “Leyton, arrange the seating.”