Ch. 601..610
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 601
“Even if you leave, you’ll always be the future Mrs. Arnold.”
“Don’t you get it? It’s not about our engagement. It’s about your responsibility as a man. Maybe we’re not right for each other; I wish you happiness,” Madelyn shook off his hand. “I lost the engagement ring. I’ll pay you back for it. Sorry, I really need to leave now.”
“No, Madelyn!” Pain shot through Ethan’s legs as he took a step, making him kneel on the ground.
“Mr. Arnold!”
“Ethan!” Donna also emerged upon seeing this.
“Daddy!”
Everyone hurried forward, but only Madelyn left. They did not realize her leaving meant a long farewell, and the Arnold family would never be the same.
Embarking on her journey back to Paris, Madelyn left with uncertainty, not knowing when or if she would ever return.
Jadie’s car accident left her with a minor leg fracture, requiring a month of bed rest before she could walk again. Zach learned that Madelyn had left Southern Haven Villas at nine in the morning. He sped in a black Audi to Ventropolis International Airport, frantically attempting to reach her by phone. His repeated calls were answered and then disconnected, leading to no response and a finally switched-off phone.
Zach asked the staff, “When is the earliest flight to Paris?”
The staff replied, “It just took off two minutes ago. The next quickest flight isn’t until 1:30 in the afternoon.”
If her choice to be with Ethan was wrong from the start, and it could not change the outcome between her and Zach, then she might as well start all over again this time. Nobody expected. Madelyn’s departure to leave no trace, making it impossible for anyone to find her.
After summer vacation, the college entrance exam results were released. Madelyn was the top scorer in Ventropolis, with Kennedy right behind her. As various media outlets
scrambled for an interview, they all hit a wall: Madelyn had gone abroad. Any trace of her was gone. It was like she disappeared into thin air. Her once- familiar phone number was now unreachable, and later, it was given to a new user.
Time can blur every memory of a person. A person’s face and voice will slowly fade from memory until all traces are gone.
Each month since Madelyn’s departure, Ethan retraced her steps. He visited the places she once visited, including art exhibitions and school libraries. He sent people everywhere to find her, staying wherever there was a hint of her presence. Four years had passed. For Madelyn, it was a fleeting moment.
September 2005, Luxembourg Park.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 602
Under the Statue of Liberty by a pond, many students about to graduate were sketching. “Madelyn, if you submit this painting in a contest, you’re sure to win,” a voice said.
The cool fall wind blew her short hair. A beam of golden light shone on her face. Wearing a shiny necklace, Madelyn tucked her long hair behind her ear. Thanks,” she replied. Now twenty-two, Madelyn was more confident than she was at eighteen. Over the four years, she had grown more mature. Each smile and frown was filled with her own unique charm.
A woman with golden hair beside her shook her head in distress, “I won’t be able to complete this graduation album on time. If I delay my graduation again, I’ll be so disappointed. Prof. Monet must be so happy having a student like you. Over these years, you’ve won so many awards, unlike me.”
Madelyn offered her words of encouragement, “Aisha, study harder.
You’ll definitely make it.”
Madelyn submitted her five best paintings for her graduation assignment. The selected paintings would be judged, and the winner would get a cool prize and an awesome job offer.
After the graduation ceremony and photo-taking session, she did not rush to find a job. Instead, she returned to her job at the cafe. There, her coworker Lila, in her uniform, ran toward her, holding a newspaper with excitement. Lila usually only had such a big smile when getting extra tips from customers.
“Madelyn, look at this guy; he is the first Venturian man to appear on the French Le Monde de la France.”
Madelyn knew Lila’s attraction to good looks. She wondered how striking someone had to be for her to notice. Although Madelyn had not followed Venturian news for many years, she kept up through conversations,” Really? Be sure to pass on my congratulations.”
“You seem so indifferent. But I bet that one look at him, and you wouldn’t have been able to look away.”
“Lila, we can’t count on men to fix everything. Let’s get to work.” Madelyn swiftly pulled her hair into a ponytail and secured it.
Lila excitedly showed her the man on the magazine cover, “This is him. They called him… Zach Jardin.” Lila awkwardly pronounced the name, trying to say it in Venturian.
The moment Madelyn saw the picture, her cell phone slipped from her grasp, falling to the ground. Her eyes widened in surprise. The man in the newspaper was Zach, without a doubt. His image, clear even in the black and white photo, remained as captivating as always. He still demanded attention at first glance.
Dressed in a sharp black suit, his tall figure and even more mysterious eyes hinted at a mix of sharpness and loneliness. His appearance could leave many in awe. Now thirty, Zach had notably advanced in his career, demonstrating immense talent. He had successfully established his own company, swiftly emerging as a notable figure in Ventropolis. He appeared even more impressive than before. But this time, Madelyn would not stand beside him.
This was not the first time Madelyn heard about Zach since her departure. Back in 2005, during the global financial crisis, when numerous businesses were shutting down and millions faced unemployment, Zach’s name surprisingly surfaced.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 603
As many domestic companies closed, he bought many businesses from other countries. This move caught the attention of international news, and he was even on TV. Everyone worldwide heard about Zach and his smart business moves in just one night.
Madelyn wondered if this huge success was just luck. All these failing companies she knew that Zach had bought would soon turn into some of the biggest businesses in the world within five years. At first, people were doubtful about his choices. But when his name appeared on the list of wealthy individuals, it became clear that he was cleverer than everyone thought.
His name kept bouncing around in her head like a bouncing ball. She felt she could never escape him even if she ran far away. Over the years, she wondered how he had changed, ‘Is the Zach from my past life back again? If that is really true… A cold wind blew, making her hands and feet super cold and sending shivers up and down her body. She really hoped she was just thinking too much.
At the afternoon training, the cafe manager said, “Next week, there will be a big party at eight in the evening on The Caesar Elegance cruise ship. The head office needs help. Madelyn, Lila, you’re helping with serving at the party. After it ends, everyone’s pay will triple, and you’ll get a bonus. If you’re lucky, guests might give big tips too.”
“I’m sorry, I can’t next week,” Madelyn said. She had a problem. “My professor has an art show, and I can’t miss it.”
Knowing that Madelyn’s professor was a famous international artist, the manager, who was also a fan, nodded. He said Madelyn could miss this time. After the meeting, Lila felt disappointed. “Madelyn, I’ll definitely feel lonely without you there,” she said.
Madelyn gave a slight smile. “I’ll head over quickly to help if there’s time after the art show,” she said. She was eager not to miss Prof. Monet’s art show. Besides, the event offered the chance to earn as much in one night as she typically did in two months.
In four years, Ventropolis had changed a lot. Homes turned into huge buildings that touched the sky, making the city center a busy place for business. In this busy place, Zach, who was in charge of Jardin Corporation, was the only one who made all the big decisions.
After a financial crisis two years ago, people did not think much of Zach. But now, he was the richest person in the whole of Ventropolis. The Jardin Tower was the tallest building, with ninety-nine floors in the middle of the city. It made Arnold Corporation look tiny. Below the giant Jardin Tower, a fancy Maybach stopped. The car’s back door opened, and someone with slender legs wearing black pants stepped out. Kevin and Cecilia, two assistants, followed right behind.
As they walked into the lobby, the people at the front desk all shouted, ” Good morning, Mr. Jardin.”
With one hand in his pocket, Zach walked past without looking around. Kevin pressed the button for the special elevator and stepped in.
“Kevin, tell me what’s planned next,” Zach said.
“In two hours, at ten, there’s a big meeting,” Kevin said.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 604
“You have an appointment with Miss Young today at noon. Then, a charity event at six in the evening. Also, don’t forget the important banquet in Paris in five days. Your invitation is already in the CEO’s office.”
Kevin, Cecilia, and Zach left the elevator after reaching the ninety- ninth floor. Kevin headed to the assistant’s office as Cecilia and Zach moved to the CEO’s office. Over the years, Cecilia’s support had been crucial in Zach’s ascent to power. Now, with the Arnold family out of the picture, he commanded Ventropolis. Cecilia made a cup of coffee and placed it in front of him. She pressed a button, and the office doors closed. Then, she sat on his lap without hesitation.
“I’ve been there for every win. It’s time for you to hold up your end, don’t you think?” Cecilia’s hand moved with purpose across his chest, her touch light but insistent.
Zach met her gaze, his face a blank slate. “You seem to have too much time on your hands.” His eyes held a chill, a subtle irritation flickering and then gone. He did not move from her touch.
“The situation is changing, Zach. We’re ascending. Follow my lead, and the world is yours. Four years, Zach. Four years of unwavering support. I stand unmatched, the only one worthy to be at your side.”
Zach knew it was true. A lot of his success was thanks to Cecilia. From the day she showed up, she acted like she knew everything about him. It was as if she was directing his life, ensuring everything happened just right.
“You’ve been helping me all this time, Ms. Samford, just to become Mrs. Jardin? You really think I’d believe that’s all you want?” Zach bent closer, gently lifting her chin to look at her eyes. He saw the bright red of her lips.
“Of course…” Cecilia, her arms around his neck, whispered. “It’s to fix the mistakes from our past life. Now, I’m not just here to help you, Zach. I’m meant to be with you, as your wife.”
A knock came at the office door. Cecilia stood and straightened her clothes. Zach pressed a button, opening the door automatically. Kevin walked in, holding a document, “This needs your signature.”
Zach glanced at the document and signed it. He handed it back to Kevin, who seemed to hesitate. Zach looked up at him, “Anything else?”
Kevin’s eyes briefly moved to Cecilia, who was now standing aside.
“May I stay for Kevin’s report?” Cecilia asked.
“Of course,” Zach said, gesturing for Kevin to proceed. “Some former employees of Azure Corporation spotted Ms. Jent in an online video.”
“Where’s the video?”
Kevin presented a short video on a tablet. As it played, Zach immediately recognized the girl sitting on the grass with a drawing board. With just a glimpse of her side profile, Zach knew it was her. The video paused, showing Madelyn’s face with a gentle smile, her eyes bright.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 605
Zach’s gaze remained on Madelyn’s face as he watched the blurry video. After a moment, he looked away, handing the tablet back, “Tell Mr. Frederick Tesla I’ll be on time for the Paris banquet.”
Kevin gave a slight nod, “Yes, Mr. Jardin.” After Kevin left, Zach turned to Cecilia, who stood beside him, “What’s wrong? Aren’t you happy I’m bringing her back?”
“You still can’t let her go after all,” Cecilia said, her arms folded and her expression sulky. “Did you forget what I told you? In our previous lives, it was Madelyn who tore us apart. We even had a son. If not for her, we wouldn’t have separated.”
Zach stared at Cecilia. She seemed honest, but her talk about past life confused him. It was hard to believe in rebirth and old memories. Most people would call it crazy. Yet, Cecilia’s actions made Zach want to believe her. He narrowed his eyes, thinking hard. After a bit, he asked, “If you were reborn, how did I die last time?”
When Zach asked this, Cecilia hid her surprise. She looked at him sadly and walked toward the big window, “You only lived to be fifty-five back then. Madelyn poisoned you after we got married. I had to raise our kid alone. Now I’m back, and it’s like getting a second chance to be with you. Our meeting again feels like it’s meant to be. When I was in danger, seeing you first after opening my eyes felt so right. Zach, even if you don’t remember the past, that’s okay. I’ll stay with you and help bring back your memories. This time, no one will split us up again.”
While working at Supreme World, a guest drugged Cecilia. She fought back, making the guest angry. The guest then handed her over to the bodyguards. When things were about to get worse, Zach swooped in and saved her. Cecilia woke up in the hospital and had a strange memory of a past life where she knew Zach.
Still haunted by the pain of losing Zach before, Cecilia could not believe what she saw. There he was, 26 and vibrantly alive, and not just as a sorrowful memory. As tears filled her eyes, the enormity of the reunion overwhelmed her. Later, she would use the business insights she had learned alongside him. After all, Zach had been her mentor in all things business. It was as if life was offering her a fresh start with him by her side.
In this new life, she felt thankful to be with Zach again. Now, as he became a respected leader in Ventropolis, they would always stay together.
Zach tapped his fingers on the table with a steady beat. He was looking at an old vase far away on a shelf, his mind. somewhere else.
‘If Cecilia changed because she was born again, is Madelyn the same? Did she run away after knowing what happened in her past life? When did she come back with memories of her past life?’ he wondered.
A picture suddenly popped into Zach’s mind. It was Madelyn, right after she turned 18, looking pale in the hospital after trying to hurt herself badly. When she woke up, she became different. Starting that day, she acted weird and stayed away from him for no reason. At first, he did not understand why.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 606
Now, Zach had his answer. But Cecilia’s words did not match what Madelyn had said when she was sick four years ago. He started to look into it only because Madelyn had said Cecilia’s name.
‘Did Madelyn know Cecilia before?’ Zach thought about his and Madelyn’s child. He did not know many details. Everything felt as confusing as trying to see through a fog. But he wanted to hear what Madelyn had to say more than he wanted to hear Cecilia’s hard- to-believe words.
Jardin Corporation had grown a lot. It spread in the past few years, reaching different areas like stocks, finance, property, entertainment, and health care.
At noon, just like they planned, Zach went to pick up Yvonne for lunch. He chose a simple Audi, a car he used to drive a lot four years ago. A silver- chain watch hung on the car’s rearview mirror. Behind its ornate facade, it concealed a picture of Madelyn wearing a black school outfit from her high school days. The photo looked aged and preserved for many years. Stopping at a red light, Zach’s hand moved to gently touch the girl in the photo, his eyes filled with sadness.
‘Four years… Madelyn, it’s time to come back.’
Clatter!
Madelyn’s sketchpad slipped and fell to the ground. She quickly scooped it up. Leonardo’s serious face turned to her. “What’s up? You’ve been acting strange lately.”
While Madelyn cleaned water stains off her paper, her brush accidentally made a mark. She quickly stood up and said, I’m sorry, professor. I’m slightly off because I didn’t sleep well last night.”
“You should rest,” Leonardo advised. ” The other students can finish up.”
“No need. I can handle it.”
It was a small mistake, but Madelyn looked worried. Leonardo, usually not so strict, noticed. “Alright, take a break, “he said kindly. “You need to be fresh for the art exhibition tomorrow.”
Madelyn looked down. “I understand, professor.”
Her thoughts were in turmoil. Lila had shown her a newspaper, its contents igniting a wave of anxiety within her. It hinted at a threat to her hidden existence of many years. Leading the art exhibition the next day felt daunting. The fear of being recognized, particularly by Zach, gnawed at her. In a crowd of renowned individuals, she feared standing out and facing a past she had fled from. She was unprepared to return.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 607
Preparing for tomorrow’s art exhibition, Madelyn tidied up the venue before heading back to her modest two-bedroom apartment. With her tight budget, she had to share the apartment. Her roommate Lila, busy preparing for tomorrow’s banquet at the shop, would be home late. After a quick noon meal, Madelyn devoted her time to cleaning the apartment, working nonstop until six o’clock. This habit kept her busy nerves calm and her mind from wandering into anxiety. She left the small living room organized and neat.
Around six, Madelyn headed to the supermarket to buy groceries for dinner. She cooked extra, putting the leftovers in the fridge for Lila’s late- night snack. As she busied herself, the day swiftly passed, giving way to darkness. After a quick wash, she drank a glass of water and took two prescribed sleeping pills, soon drifting into sleep.
Meanwhile, on a private plane, Kevin relayed fresh information to Zach,
We’re in touch with a detective agency in France. They’ve found the person who filmed that video. It turns out an art school group was painting in Luxembourg Park that day. The Paris Art Academy just sent a list of soon-to- be graduates, and Ms. Jent’s name is there.
They’ve also discovered she’s been on a scholarship these past four years and works part-time at Cafe Normandie for living expenses. I’ve got her Paris address and contact information here.’
Zach took the file from Kevin’s hand, quickly scanning through Madelyn’s academic and personal records from the past few years. He noticed a list filled with various awards in the award section. In addition, the file contained photographs of Madelyn, evidently taken without her knowledge.
One photo showcased her in a painting studio. She was dressed in a white high- necked sweater, her medium-length black hair resting gently on her shoulders. The light from a nearby window highlighted her vivid features, casting a serene glow on her face.
Another picture showed her in a thin trench coat with a bag on her back, walking on a road lined with grand sycamore trees. As she crossed the street, branches from the sycamores intertwined above, and golden leaves scattered on the ground, painting a beautiful scene.
Despite the picturesque surroundings, a man on a bicycle stared at her passing figure, a moment captured in the photograph. The third image showed her heading to the supermarket at six after returning to her apartment, where she bought discounted seafood. Pinned to the back of the photo was a list of items Madelyn bought all affordable choices.
‘Four years have passed since she left the Jent family behind,’ Zach thought with cold detachment. ‘She believed her life would become much better. But after all the deception, it is clear her life has only moved backward. Is this the ordinary life she yearned for, rejecting her role as a lady and choosing these hardships instead?’
With no expression, Zach set the files down and picked up a stack of thick photos. “Keep monitoring her. Report any information immediately,” he ordered. Kevin nodded, “Yes, Mr. Jardin.”
Over the years, Zach never gave up searching for Madelyn. Finding her in another country without any help was very difficult. Even though he had amassed wealth and owned several international companies that helped search for information about Madelyn, she remained elusive.
These companies would report immediately if she ever applied for a job or had an interview with them. Unfortunately, Madelyn had been working at a small cafe, a place outside their ownership. That was why there had been no news of her all these years.
Kevin could not understand why Zach was so eager to find Madelyn. He already controlled the Jent family. He could make everything that the Jent family owned in Ventropolis disappear with his power. But he had protected the Jent residence. He also owned all of the Southern Haven Villas.
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 608
‘Zach has everything, so why is he so determined to find her? He’s moved on from the Jent family. Plus, is Madelyn even important now? If she vanished, life would go on. But her return could bring Zach a world of trouble,’ Kevin mused.
After their eight-hour flight, they arrived in the city and went directly to the luxurious Hotel BelleSophie. The exceptional welcome they received was no surprise; after all, Zach was one of the hotel’s largest shareholders. The butler handed over a ticket once they were settled into their rooms.
“Here’s the art exhibition ticket Mr. Jardin requested. The show starts at noon, which is in about three hours. We’ve prepared breakfast for you, Mr. Jardin. Please, enjoy.”
Kevin updated Zach, “After the banquet, we’ll be here for about two weeks. Some major international tech firms are interested in partnering with us. There’s also a charity auction dinner. We’ve set our meetings for the day after tomorrow.”
Zach took a sip from his glass, “Let’s stay for six months.”
Kevin hesitated, “Six months? Isn’t that a stretch? We have stuff happening back home.”
“Just follow my lead.”
Kevin gave a short nod, “Okay.”
‘Is he changing our plans because of Madelyn?’ Kevin wondered, maintaining his calm demeanor though worry was evident in his eyes.
“Achoo!”
While dusting off a picture frame, Madelyn sneezed. She paused for a moment, feeling a little lightheaded.
Clement, noticing her, said, “If you’re not feeling great, you can head home. Don’t worry; Jane, Dorian, and I can handle things here.”
Madelyn shook her head, “I’m okay, really.”
As the art exhibition began, Madelyn greeted the guests and introduced the artworks to the VIPS. Upstairs, Dorian settled into a quiet spot to watch the crowd below.
“I just don’t understand,” he said. ” Why did Prof. Monet only pick her? She didn’t even go to classes like the rest of us. Instead, she traveled with him and returned with a degree from the Paris Art Academy. That’s so lucky.”
“We’ve been with him for years, and he never mentored any of us the way he did with her,” another voice added. ” And when we asked for advice? Vague comments, nothing more.”
“It’s been four years since we last won an award. We might be in trouble if things don’t change.”
“Jane, do you think the professor plays favorites?” Jane glanced sharply and replied, ” Mind your own business.” She then walked away.
Madelyn was looking toward the upper floor, lost in thought when the sight of a flashy Maybach pulling up outside the gallery caught her eye
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 609
Leonardo and Lucien Dupont, the gallery director, stepped out of the meeting room. Lucien, dressed in a black suit with a fedora and carrying a black cane, was introduced to Madelyn by Leonardo. Taking Madelyn’s hand, Lucien gently kissed the back of it. ” Dear Ms. Jent,” he said with a bit of an accent, “Prof. Monet always praises your artistic skills. Here’s my card. Let me know if you ever want to open a studio and need funding.”
Madelyn glanced at Prof. Monet. When she saw him nod, she accepted the card and smiled. “You’re too kind, Mr. Dupont. I don’t think I’m that talented. I just work harder than most.”
Lucien chuckled, “You’re being modest. I’ve seen your artwork. It’s really great.”
Madelyn replied, “Thank you.”
After Prof. Monet handed the event’s responsibility to Madelyn, Leonardo left for another interview. Once they were gone, Madelyn took a moment to sigh with relief. Noticing the gallery was not too crowded, she explored the second floor of the art exhibition,
showcasing Western-style artworks by Jane, Clement, and Dorian. Madelyn’s award-winning painting was displayed on the first floor, but she preferred the quieter atmosphere of the second floor. As she climbed the staircase with three cups of coffee in hand for Clement, Dorian, and Jane, she overheard a bit of their conversation.
Dorian said, “It’s quiet up here; it seems that no one’s coming. Madelyn’s got the crowd downstairs covered; she’s always been a standout.
Sometimes, I feel Prof. Monet doesn’t value us as much. How about we head back to the hotel and play some video games?”
“Do you have any conscience, Dorian?” Clement asked sharply. “What if Madelyn had heard you? It would hurt her. Prof. Monet spent four years and faced many dangers to assemble this international art exhibition. Madelyn was always by his side, supporting him without complaint. Remember the desert? She saved you from quicksand. While we hesitated during that storm in the Cobalt Ocean, she fearlessly retrieved Prof. Monet’s painting from the rough waters. It’s her bravery that earned her the position as Prof. Monet’s apprentice. Without her, our journey might have taken another three years. After the exhibition, we’ll return to Ventropolis to graduate.”
For decades, Leonardo dominated the world of realistic art, capturing breathtaking locales from across the globe. Clement recalled their shared adventures over the past four years, venturing to remote and untouched places. Whether navigating treacherous waters or traversing vast deserts in search of hidden oases, they faced countless challenges.
Amid these adventures, Madelyn was enchanted by a world she had only ever imagined. These experiences broadened her horizons and gave her a newfound appreciation for freedom and adventure. Reflecting on these moments, she recognized her tremendous growth.
After a moment of quiet, Dorian quipped, “You sure bring up Madelyn quite a bit. Feeling a bit fond of her?”
The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 610
Dorian quickly got up from his seat when he spotted Madelyn in the hallway and approached her. Taking her coffee, he gave a cheerful grin, but his eyes showed a hint of guilt. Madelyn,” he said. “What are you doing here? Didn’t Prof. Monet ask you to be downstairs with the guests? Why’d you come up?”
Madelyn smiled slightly, “Prof. Monet had to leave for an interview with the international journalists. Could one of you help cover for me downstairs at the event? You might get a chance to mingle with some of the celebrities attending. I have plans later, so I’ll need your help here.”
Dorian asked, “You’re not looking for another job, right? I thought with all those awards, you’d have enough money. Why do this kind of work?”
Madelyn replied, “I could’ve lived comfortably in France for years with that money.” Then, seeing the surprise on Dorian’s face, she added, “But I gave it all away.”
Their eyes widened in shock. Dorian blurted out, “Have you lost your mind?”
Madelyn gave a small smile, “I need to take care of some things. You guys should head downstairs; there’s a bunch of important people to meet. Don’t miss out.”
Jane shot up, glaring. “Who do you think you are?” she said sharply. ” Feeling proud? I wonder how you even got Prof. Monet to teach you.”
Madelyn did not say anything. An awkward silence hung in the air, interrupted by a noise from below. Madelyn, looking tired, decided not to find out what caused it and just went to the break room.
Clement watched Madelyn leave. Dorian’s remark about ‘fond of her’ was still on his mind. He looked at Jane with a furrowed brow. “Wasn’t that a bit much?” he asked before following Dorian downstairs.
In the exhibition hall, everyone’s attention was on one special person. As the crowd moved aside, it was clear who had everyone’s interest.
Kevin stepped forward and asked, ” Who’s in charge here?”
Recognizing the man’s importance, Dorian replied, “I am. Good day, sir. I’m Dorian, a student of Prof. Monet. Since he’s away, I’m in charge.” Turning his attention to Zach, who seemed equally influential, he extended his hand in greeting, but Zach did not respond. This left Dorian feeling a touch embarrassed.
“Is there anyone else here besides you? Zach’s voice was calm but carried a cold edge. Faced with Zach’s intense gaze, Dorian felt on edge, even as he tried to hide his uneasiness.