Ch. 841..850

The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 841

Madelyn’s subconscious was in turmoil, her dream echoing with the cries of her child. ‘My baby… I hear you! Please, someone help my baby… Mommy’s right here…’ She felt trapped, unable to escape to find her child.

Simultaneously, back in reality, Agustin entered the room and stood beside Madelyn’s hospital bed. “You really do look just like her. She was my wife once.”

“Because of him, she was taken from me… But thankfully, I’ve been given you, who share her blood,” Agustin muttered.

His eyes brimmed with a fervent fixation as he reached out with quivering hands towards Madelyn’s face, so like Alicia’s. Leaning down, he inhaled her scent, his eyes shutting as he lost himself in memories of a past that seemed to hold beauty for him.

“M-My child…” Madelyn suddenly muttered. She thought, ‘My child is still alive… My baby is back. Dal is my child.’

It seemed her dream, her maternal instincts, were reaching out. After nearly four months in a coma, this was the first sign of Madelyn’s consciousness stirring. Tears emerged, adorning her lashes and tracing paths down her cheeks. And in her chest, pang of heartache resonated with her emerging awareness.

In the adjacent room, the sound of Dalton’s crying slowly diminished, leaving behind a silent testament to the ordeal — a small pool of blood on the floor.

An hour into the art exhibition, a buzz of anticipation filled the air as the media awaited Leonardo’s arrival.

Impatience began to surface among them, with murmurs rising. “Prof. Monet isn’t going to stand us up, is he?”

“How reliable is this info? We’ve been on standby for ages!”

One reporter turned to Serena and pressed, “Ms. Smith, can you confirm if Prof. Monet is indeed coming?”

a

Maintaining her poise, Serena masked her annoyance with a practiced smile, “I’ve sent for him personally. Please be patient.”

With a tone of assurance, she asserted, “Don’t worry, he will certainly be here.”

Serena clung to the belief that despite any reluctance, Leonardo would feel compelled to attend due to his interest in establishing an art institute which required her father’s support.

Minutes ticked by, and then, fifteen minutes later, Leonardo arrived with his students, among them the notably skilled Clement and Dorian, reflecting his skilled mentorship.

The crowd’s silent anticipation turned to an excited buzz. Flashbulbs popped as they caught a glimpse of the seldom-seen master. Known for his rarity in the public eye, Leonardo’s attendance was a special treat for fans and aspiring artists.

Amidst the entourage, there was Mya, whose presence seemed to darken Serena’s mood.

Serena, seeing Mya, kept her displeasure under wraps amidst the reporters. She greeted Leonardo with a practiced smile, “It’s been too long, Prof. Monet.”

Leonardo did not give Serena a warm reception when he saw her. He just walked past her and approached a familiar painting, ” Nice painting.”

In Ventropolis, it was extremely rare for Leonardo to personally praise a painter. This was the first time the reporters heard Leonardo praising a relatively unpopular artist in Venturia.

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Yet Serena had her own reputation abroad. “Thank you, Prof. Monet,” she replied. “I anticipated your visit and have a special gift for you, in honor of your passion for art.”

A bodyguard approached, presenting an exquisitely crafted pearwood case. Serena began to unveil her gift, but Leonardo interrupted with a raised hand, “My visit today is to enjoy the art on display. Gifts are unnecessary.”

He studied a painting that captured an expansive seascape with towering waves beneath an azure sky. Where is this scene from?” he mused. “Scenery like this is rare.”

To the uninitiated, the scene was merely stunning, but those with insight recognized there was more than met the eye.

Serena responded, “It’s been quite some time. I’ve forgotten. Why don’t you come with me to see another piece?”

Leonardo scoffed, “You don’t even know what you’ve painted?”

At that moment, Mya interjected, “This painting isn’t hers.”

Leonardo waved his hand. Mya immediately kept quiet. However, some of the reporters had already caught on. But since Leonardo was there, no one dared to interrupt and ask any questions.

Serena’s voice was steady, a warning edged within. “Please be careful with your accusations. This is a professional setting, not a place for baseless claims. Continue, and you may be removed.”

Mya chose silence.

Leonardo, unperturbed, inquired, “Which work would you have me view?”

Serena gestured gracefully. “This way, please.” All eyes followed as she led them to a grand painting shrouded in red fabric. At her nod, a bodyguard drew the cloth away.

Gasps of wonder spread through the room.

The unveiled painting revealed not another’s likeness but Serena’s own. She was depicted in ethereal white tulle, her bare back to the viewer, arms crossed, gaze averted. The detail was immaculate, each hair on her back finely rendered, the fabric caught in an invisible breeze. The realism was such that it bordered on the illusion of life.

Amidst the murmurs of admiration, Leonardo’s voice cut through, “Disaster.”

His blunt critique landed heavily, a public slight that left Serena exposed.

Mya’s outrage couldn’t be held back as she addressed the room, “Prof. Monet, she’s taken possession of Madelyn’s painting album. It seems the majority of these pieces are actually Madelyn’s handiwork.” Then, her gaze piercing Serena, she continued, “Serena Smith, what depths will you stoop to? Adopting Madelyn’s name as ‘Madelyn Smith,’ presenting her art as if it were your own… it’s utterly despicable!”

Leonardo said, “Is your talent stealing others’ work?”

Leonardo’s pointed question left Serena scrambling for footing in the unexpected confrontation. “Prof. Monet, I had hoped to request your mentorship today. Even if you decline, there’s no need for accusations. You’re esteemed in the art world; isn’t this beneath your status?”

Leonardo dismissed the notion of status with a gesture, “Status is irrelevant. My role here, upon your invitation, is to critique as a committed educator would.”

11

With the conversation steering into a tight corner, Serena acknowledged his position, albeit reluctantly,” Of course, your judgment is always esteemed.”

Leonardo asked Clement, “Clement, do you still remember the motto of Ventropolis University?”

Clement stepped forward. “I dare not forget,” he began, his voice steady. “Uphold integrity, pursue your true calling, sustain dignity and resolve, and prevail through adversity.”

“You’re right,” Leonardo nodded.

He turned to Serena with a stern look. “You lack the integrity I require. I doubt you’re fit to be my student, much less my apprentice.”

Serena was taken aback by the severity of his words; it was a humiliating moment.

Her palms were clammy with sweat. Panic, fear, and shyness surged within her, erasing all her rehearsed promises in an instant.

Yet, she managed to contain her mounting anxiety, subtly pinching her hand as she mustered the courage to respond. “Prof. Monet, don’t you think that’s a bit too harsh?”

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Leonardo replied, “I’m simply stating the facts. You invited me here, and here I am. My presence isn’t without purpose.”

The nearby reporters stirred, their initial reason for attendance overshadowed by the unfolding drama- they sensed a significant story.

Just then, a sleek Rolls-Royce glided to a stop at the entrance. A man emerged, impeccably dressed in a suit, his polished leather shoes clicking against the white steps. His steps weren’t loud, but they resonated, drawing all eyes to him.

A wave of surprise swept through the onlookers as they shifted their attention to the entrance. The question hung in the air among them, ‘Is that the CEO of the Jardin Corporation?’

Zach’s presence was commanding, his intimidating aura palpable as he approached, a hand casually tucked in his pocket, while a chilly breeze trailed behind him, making everyone around shudder.

“Kevin,” Zach’s voice cut through the cold.

Kevin responded, “Yes, Mr. Jardin.”

Approaching Serena, Kevin relayed, “Ms. Smith, Mr. Jardin has come to reclaim an item you allegedly took from Ms. Jent.”

Serena’s composure wavered, and she instinctively stepped back at Zach’s approach, her reaction a mix of intimidation and perhaps a hint of guilt.

“I don’t know what you’re referring to!” she countered, her voice tinged with panic. “I’ve been accused of theft, yet there’s no proof. Without evidence, these claims are groundless, and I won’t hesitate to involve the police if this continues.”

Kevin replied, “Being stubborn at this point won’t benefit you at all. Mr. Jardin has already given you time, but you remain uncooperative. And I’d like to advise you one last time-return what does not belong to you.”

As Zach neared, Mya retreated behind Leonardo, her movements quiet, her fear evident.

Zach spoke, “There’s a limit to my patience. Persist in your obstinacy, and I can’t promise the continuation of this exhibition.”

With a subtle gesture from Zach, a cadre of bodyguards poured in, each brandishing a police baton. Without hesitation, they began to demolish the paintings hanging on the walls.

Serena’s composure shattered. She lunged forward in a desperate attempt to halt the destruction, crying out, “Stop! All of you, just stop! This is my life’s work. How could you… How could you do this?!”

Moments before, concern had etched her face; now, she was a portrait of hysteria.

Zach watched her dispassionately. “Three minutes, Serena Smith. Produce what I’m after, or this wreckage will be just the start.”

Mya, seizing an opportunity, slipped away upstairs quietly.

Serena, amidst the wreckage of her artwork, lashed out in fury, “Zach Jardin, you think you rule Ventropolis? With all the press here, do you think you’ll escape the headlines tomorrow?

“So many reporters are here. Aren’t you afraid that your actions today will be reported in the newspaper tomorrow?

“You were nothing without the Young family’s backing. You can’t erase your past, no matter how high you climb. You’re the shameless one. You’re the real thief, having taken everything, even the Arnolds’ stature in Ventropolis.”

Zach’s demeanor remained cool and unbothered, as if he placed little importance on anyone’s opinion.

His boldness stemmed from his current hold over Ventropolis-he controlled the city’s pulses. The presence of reporters did not faze him; his influence was such that none would dare pen a negative word about him.

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Mya descended the stairs breathlessly, clutching a worn pink art album. “I found it!” she exclaimed, holding it aloft. “This is Madelyn’s art album; Serena had hidden it in her bag in the resting room.” Flipping it open, she revealed the evidence to all. “Don’t let her fool you. Here’s Madelyn’s name,” she pointed out, dispelling any doubt of ownership.

Serena, desperate, made a grab for the art album, “No, it’s mine… It’s mine…” but Kevin blocked her, keeping the art album out of reach.

With her deceit uncovered, Serena’s composure crumbled. She became frantic, clawing at her own hair, her eyes wild with panic, repeating, “Mine. It’s mine!”

Leonardo observed the meltdown with a shake of his head.

Despite her fear of Zach, Mya bravely stepped forward to hand him the art album. “I found the art album. May I visit Madelyn in the hospital now? I’m sorry for what happened last time. When she wakes, I’ll apologize to her personally.”

Zach’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. Kevin, understanding the gesture, took the art album. “Ms. Harper, as Madelyn’s close friend, you’re more than welcome to visit her. We appreciate you returning this to its rightful owner.”

Mya’s face lit up with a grateful smile, her dimples deepening. “Absolutely. Madelyn always says we’re best friends for life. It was my duty to recover what was hers,” she stated warmly.

Serena continued to mutter in denial, “Mine… It’s mine…”

Zach left the scene without looking around. Kevin stayed behind and said to all the reporters, “Regarding today’s events, I trust you understand what is expected. The Jardin Corporation would prefer this incident not make the headlines.”

The reporters all nodded in understanding, the unspoken influence of the Jardin name clear.

Kevin then collected the camera film from the photographers, assuring them, “Once we’ve reviewed the footage, the Jardin Corporation will return the rest. You’re free to use any non-relevant material thereafter.

17

In the car, Zach browsed Madelyn’s art album, a collection of places she had longed to visit, beautifully rendered in her drawings. The album, a birthday gift from him, was remarkably well-kept. It was a catalog of her solitary journeys to beautiful locales and vast seas over the last four years.

Reflecting on this, Zach resolved, ‘From this point forward, she won’t have to be alone. I will be there, wherever she wishes to go.’

His thoughts were interrupted when Kevin, listening intently to his Bluetooth earpiece, displayed a look of sheer amazement. Striving for composure, he relayed the unexpected news, “Mr. Jardin, the hospital just informed us that Ms. Jent has regained consciousness.”

The news brought Zach’s perusal of the album to an abrupt halt. A tumult of emotions stirred within him.

Zach’s strides carried à rare imbalance as he entered the elevator, his typically composed gait replaced by a hurried uncertainty. Reaching the fifteenth floor, he made for the designated room only to find it empty. Panic edged into his voice as he demanded, “Where is she?!”

One of the bodyguards who was guarding the ward said, “Mr. Jardin, your son had an accident. Ms. Jent is currently in the pediatric emergency room donating blood to him. You should hurry over to take a look.”

In the pediatric emergency room, Madelyn was standing outside the operating theater. She was wearing a patient’s gown, with medical tape still on her arm. Her hair only reached her shoulders. And the frail silhouette of her back was heart-wrenching to see.

A nurse, stepping out of the theater and noting Madelyn’s fragile state, approached with concern. “Miss, you’ve just emerged from a coma. You’re not yet fully recovered,” she said gently. “Please, take a seat. The child will be alright; there’s no need to stand on your feet for so long.”

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Madelyn stood anxiously outside the surgery room. “I’ll wait,” she murmured, her fingers growing cold. With each passing moment, the unsettling thought grew: Dalton might be her child.

Dalton was in the room next door when he had a fall. Madelyn had felt like she had a strange connection with him. A sudden pain in her heart startled her out of her coma.

In her dream, the child she had seen looked exactly like Dalton, which left her puzzled. She vividly remembered expecting a daughter in her past life, not a son. ‘Is all of this just in my head?’ she wondered. ‘ It can’t be possible for my child to still be alive.’

Madelyn suddenly felt weak and began to fall. Zach moved quickly, catching her just in time. She caught a glimpse of him just before everything turned dark, going limp in his arms.

“Kevin, call Kai! Hurry!” Zach ordered.

Kevin saw the worry on Zach’s face and dialed Kai’s number. Kai was at a research lab but rushed to the hospital upon receiving the message. As Madelyn’s primary doctor, he examined her. After a few moments, he appeared less concerned, indicating that Madelyn was going to be alright.

“She’s okay, but very tired. When she wakes up, make sure she eats something healthy. She should rest as much as possible,” Kai advised.

Zach, holding Madelyn’s hand gently, turned his attention to Kevin. “What happened to Dal? He was fine before. Why is he hurt now?”

Kai looked at Kevin and then turned to Zach. “Don’t be too hard on Kevin. I heard Dal fell from his bed and bumped his nose. It’s a minor injury. After he’s treated, keep an eye on him; kids bounce back quickly.”

Just then, a nurse walked in. “Dr. Stewart, we’ve moved the child to another room.”

Kai nodded quickly. “Thanks.” After the nurse left, Kai turned to Zach. “Don’t you want to see him?” Zach replied, “There’s no need to.”

Kai observed Zach thoughtfully, ‘I understand why Zach would say that. Marrying Yvonne before really loving Madelyn was a big mistake. Zach might be able to make amends, but Madelyn could be really upset about Ethan and her guilt. How did she suddenly wake up and sense that the child was in trouble? The doctor mentioned it was a close call for Dalton at the hospital. But why does Madelyn have such a strong connection to a child she just welcomed into her family?’ After pondering it, Kai thought, ‘Maybe it’s just the way things unfolded.’

When Margaret returned from her grocery run, she was surprised to hear about Dalton. “Mr. Jardin,” she started cautiously, “I thought Dal was with you, which is why I went out.”

Zach was deeply focused on Madelyn, his visible concern for her far more important than any frustration about Dalton’s accident. Watching this, Margaret felt both relieved and guilty. She wasn’t scolded, but she couldn’t rid herself of the sense of responsibility. After Zach requested some oatmeal, she headed to the kitchenette. Consumed by regret, she lightly tapped her cheek while murmuring, “I should have returned sooner. Then Dal wouldn’t have been hurt.”

The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 846

Margaret kept herself busy, preparing the oatmeal.

Madelyn sensed a reassuring presence, a warm hand holding hers, connected to the IV drip-it was Zach. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw the face she least wanted to encounter at that moment. With a feeble voice, she inquired, “Where’s Dal?”

Zach reassured her, “He’s all right now. Someone’s looking after him. Are you hungry? How about some oatmeal?”

Madelyn looked at Zach, her expression composed. Over the past three months, she had picked up bits of his history through his whispered words while he held her as she slept. ‘Did his past with the Jent family lead to this bitterness? He’s already taken his revenge, so why continue to hurt others? Why this ruthlessness?’ Nearby, she noticed a familiar art album on the nightstand.

Zach noticed that Madelyn’s focus had shifted to the art album. Assisting her to sit up, he arranged a pillow behind her and then handed her the art album.

“I thought I’d lost this forever. How did it end up with you?” she asked.

He sensed the chill in her hand and tucked it under the blanket. “Someone took it, but I managed to retrieve it for you.”

As Madelyn delicately touched the art album’s cover, some of her hair fell across her face. Zach gently moved it behind her ear. “Take a look inside, see if anything’s amiss,” he suggested.

Madelyn leafed through the well-known pages, memories flooding back. “Thanks for this,” she said. She had visited all the places depicted in the art album during her four-year absence.

Zach took her hand, giving it a gentle kiss. “It’s great to have you back. Are you hungry? Margaret made some oatmeal. Would you like some?”

She nodded. “Yes.”

Madelyn allowed Zach to feed her, and he smiled. They had a peaceful moment together. After finishing almost half, she said, “That’s enough.”

He nodded and put the bowl down. “You can have more later if you want. Kai wants you to stay in the hospital a little longer. But once you’re good to go, we can head home.”

She met his gaze. “I need a break. Can you step out for a while?” As she spoke, she gently pulled her hand away.

Zach hesitated. “Of course. Take your time, and I’ll check on you later.”

Madelyn settled into her bed, turning away from Zach and closing her eyes. She heard him leave the room, and when she was sure he was gone, she opened her eyes. Having slept so much, she was now wide awake. Her claim of needing rest was just an excuse; she felt uncertain about facing him and didn’t know what to say. Lying there, she pondered, ‘Why am I even here? Why did I wake up?’

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Now, Zach’s main concern was for Madelyn. As he left the room, he couldn’t help but notice Mya behaving strangely behind the wall. Startled when she saw him, she quickly darted into a corner, her hand clutching her chest as if taken aback. After a moment, she cautiously peeked out and saw that Zach had already turned the corner and was out of sight. Feeling somewhat relieved, Mya approached the room. The bodyguard at the door noticed her but didn’t stop her this time, which eased her anxiety a bit. Quietly, she slipped into Madelyn’s hospital room.

Hearing the sound from the door, Madelyn assumed it was Zach returning, but to her surprise, when she looked, it was Mya standing there. Seeing Madelyn’s condition brought tears to Mya’s eyes, which didn’t go unnoticed by Madelyn. Madelyn coughed a few times and propped herself up on the bed. “Mya?” she asked, “What brings you here?”

Overwhelmed, Mya rushed into Madelyn’s arms, her voice trembling as she said, “I’m so sorry, Madelyn. It’s all my fault. I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Madelyn looked down at Mya, who was lying on her chest, and a faint smile appeared on her pale face.” It’s not your fault. Don’t blame yourself too much. Also, thank you for what you did with Ethan,” she said softly, with a thought that Zach would have kept the truth from her forever if not for Mya.

“No, It’s all my fault. I was so scared when I heard something happened to you. You left without saying anything, and I thought my best friend had just disappeared like that.”

Mya hugged her tightly, and Madelyn found it hard to catch her breath. “I’ll be fine. Stop crying,” Madelyn said. She then tried to lighten the mood by changing the topic. “Tell me, what happened while I was unconscious?”

Mya quickly wiped her tears and began to share what had been happening. According to her, since the day Madelyn fell into a coma, Zach hadn’t allowed anyone to visit her in the hospital. She had a lot to say about Zach’s controlling and unreasonable behavior during that time. Zach had been visiting Mistral Monastery every day to pray. Mya wasn’t certain about what he prayed for, but she had her suspicions.

He had even established a children’s charity fund in Madelyn’s name, making donations to schools in remote and underprivileged areas across the country. Additionally, he had invested more than ten billion Venturian currency in a cancer research institute, earning recognition as one of Venturia’s top ten influential figures of the year for his philanthropic efforts.

‘A philanthropist? I never pictured Zach in that kind of role. Is all of this his attempt to make amends for his past mistakes? But no matter what he does, it can’t erase the damage he’s caused. What did Ethan and Yvonne do to deserve their fate?’ Madelyn pondered.

“And oh, Madelyn, you wouldn’t believe what Serena Smith has been up to,” Mya exclaimed.

Madelyn frowned. “Serena Smith?”

Mya nodded. “You know, the girl with glasses who wanted to be your friend? Later, she started hanging around Jadie.”

Madelyn paused. “That girl… What happened?” Prompted by Mya, an image of Serena flickered in her thoughts.

“You won’t believe it,” Mya continued, “Serena took your art album and wouldn’t return it. She vanished abroad, and when she came back months later, she had transformed herself through plastic surgery to look like you, even took your name, Madelyn Smith.

“She started painting, hosted an exhibition in Ventropolis with forgeries of your work. Prof. Monet caught

her today, scolded her good. Your brother found out, stormed the exhibition, and caused a scene.

“Serena tried to snatch the album, but the bodyguards stopped her cold. She was livid, but it felt like she finally got what she deserved.”

Madelyn was baffled. She hardly knew Serena, which made Serena’s drastic changes even more perplexing. “So what became of her?”

Mya shrugged. “After your brother reclaimed the album and left, Prof. Monet and I did too. But why do you think she’d imitate you to such an extreme? You didn’t do anything to provoke her.”

Madelyn could only shake her head in wonder. “I’m as stumped as you are.”

“It’s got to be envy,” Mya insisted, “because you’re so pretty, she’s trying to be just like you.” Throughout their conversation, Mya had stayed close, wrapping Madelyn in a tight hug, reluctant to let go.

“What have you been up to all these years? Are those troublemakers still bothering you?” Madelyn asked. Mya shook her head. “Not anymore, especially with you having my back. Oh, and on a brighter note, my father’s recovered well and has been discharged from the hospital. Madelyn, do you recall when I mentioned wanting to open a coffee shop? I’ve managed to open fifteen of them now, and they all offer delicious-snacks too.”

Madelyn smiled genuinely, happy that Mya was able to follow her dreams.

As the daylight faded, giving way to the evening, Margaret seemed hesitant to face Madelyn because of what had happened to Dalton earlier.

A soft knock on the door followed by the gentle voice of Margaret, “Dinner is ready, Ms. Jent.” “Got it.” Madelyn lowered her gaze, her voice soft.

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Madelyn and Mya were having dinner in the hospital room. Madelyn had a bowl of oatmeal, while Mya dug into chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes, and soup. “This food’s amazing, Madelyn,” Mya said.

“If you want seconds, let me know,” Madelyn replied.

Margaret entered the room. “Should we set aside some food for Mr. Jardin?”

Madelyn, not lifting her gaze, replied, “No. He’ll manage.”

Margaret nodded and returned to the kitchenette.

Mya, patting her belly contentedly, asked, “Can I come visit you again tomorrow?”

Madelyn smiled. “Of course. But for now, you should head home. It’s getting late, and you wouldn’t want your father to worry.”

Mya looked at the clock and realized it was almost nine o’clock. She went to Madelyn and gave her a tight hug, then kissed her cheek. “I’m so glad you’re okay, Madelyn.” With that, she left the room, walking with her usual cheerful bounce.

With a deep breath, Madelyn wheeled herself into the neighboring room, where the injured Dalton lay. Seeing him in such a state stirred deep emotions in her. She whispered, ‘Dal, I’ve often felt you reaching out to me as “mom”. How I wish I could be that for you. But the truth is, I can’t have children of my own. I’ll always be here to care for you, but I can’t be the mother you long for. I’m so sorry, Dal.’

Madelyn had just returned from the next room and was getting ready for bed when Zach entered. Despite the late hour, he appeared wide awake. But when he approached to assist her from the wheelchair to the bed, she detected a hint of alcohol on his breath.

“I was just out for a bit, having some drinks with Kai. He’s left already,” Zach explained.

Madelyn said, “You don’t have to tell me.”

The

way Zach spoke evoked an image in Madelyn’s mind of a husband updating his wife after a night out. Zach sat on the bed and eased her slippers off. “Let me get some water for you to freshen up,” he said.

As he hung his suit jacket, Madelyn’s gaze trailed after Zach to the bathroom, where the sound of water filled the space. He returned with his sleeves rolled up, carrying a basin of water. With a wet towel, he gently cleaned her face. The care in his movements suggested to Madelyn that this was something he had performed many times before.

“Just let me know if you’d like a bath,” Zach said.

While Madelyn was unconscious, Zach took incredible care of her. He cleaned her every day, and out of concern that she might be upset about any hair loss, he learned how to add hair extensions. Thanks to his efforts, Madelyn’s current hair was almost indistinguishable from her natural hair. Not stopping there, Zach even took the time to wash her face and feet.

Seeing this side of Zach made Madelyn reflect. She remembered a time when he would never have considered doing such caring tasks. Fetching water and washing someone else’s feet, especially doing it with such tenderness, was a far cry from the Zach she once knew.

Zach dried Madelyn’s feet before taking a shower. Once he dried his hair, he put on his pajamas and turned off the lights. As he climbed into bed, he snuggled up against Madelyn’s back, bringing with him a fresh scent of shower gel. Zach wrapped his arms around her waist. They both breathed gently, enjoying the quiet moment together. However, despite the peaceful setting, they found it hard to fall asleep.

“What happened with Serena?” Madelyn asked.

Zach adjusted their position, sharing a pillow, allowing Madelyn to rest her head against his chest. “I had Kevin collect evidence against her father, Chadwick Smith, and turn it over to the cops. We’re staying out of the rest. If you’re worried about anything else, just let me know.”

“Are you going to…. kill her?” she asked.

Zach tightened his embrace slightly, replying, “I don’t do that sort of thing anymore.”

Words failed Madelyn as she tried to respond. She chose silence instead, taking comfort in the belief that Zach had truly changed. His breathing evened out; he had fallen asleep. But as she lay there, the serenity was short-lived. Images of a plane crash intruded her thoughts, unsettling her. She carefully moved his hand aside and sat up.

In the quiet, she retrieved a fruit knife hidden beneath their pillow. The blade caught the dim light as she aimed it towards his unsuspecting eyes. Her hands trembled, a mix of fear and rage in her gaze, while an internal voice hissed, ‘Do it! Finish him!’

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Madelyn’s eyes revealed her deep anguish. However, she could not go through with whatever she had in mind. Setting the knife down, she turned away from Zach, a trace of regret in her expression. Zach then moved closer, wrapping her in a comforting embrace. They adjusted to find a more comfortable position, staying silent until Zach finally spoke..

“Can’t sleep?” he asked.

“No, I’m good. You sleep,” she replied.

She soon drifted into a peaceful sleep. Later on, a soft sound woke her. Zach, who had been holding her, gently let go of his embrace. He rubbed his arm to alleviate some stiffness before heading to the bathroom. After a while, he left the room.

At eight-thirty in the morning, the doctor arrived for his regular check-up with Madelyn.

“You’re recovering well,” the doctor noted. “Trying to get up too quickly after waking up was tough on you, but you’re showing improvement. Keep this up, and you’ll be home within weeks. Don’t forget to schedule follow-up visits, so we can keep an eye out for any recurrence of the cancer.”

Madelyn replied, “Thanks, doc.”

He nodded. “You’re welcome. Make sure you rest.”

“I will.”

After the doctor left, Zach and Madelyn shared breakfast in her hospital room. Even though she could eat by herself, Zach insisted on feeding her, every so often wiping a smidge of oatmeal from her mouth.

“We can go for a walk outside after you’re done eating. It’s a beautiful day out,” Zach said.

Madelyn, wearing a hospital gown, sat cozily in the warmth provided by the room’s heater. The room was bathed in sunlight, which drew her attention to a tree just outside the window, its leaves a rich, vivid gold. The view transported her mind to the tree-lined avenues of France, blanketed in a golden hue.

After their meal, Zach gently helped Madelyn into a wheelchair. Feeling the cooler air outside, he bundled her up with extra clothes, a hat, and a scarf. They strolled around the hospital’s man-made lake, seeing several patients out for exercise and therapy.

Madelyn suddenly said, “I want to learn how to drive when I’m better.”

“I’ll teach you,” Zach said.

Zach followed the doctor’s advice by staying close to Madelyn for three weeks. With his help, she regained her strength and gained some weight. As her health improved, the day came when Madelyn was finally discharged, and she was back to the Jent residence in Southern Haven Villas.

Meanwhile, Margaret had her hands full. Besides looking after Dalton, she tried creating delicious dishes to encourage Madelyn to eat. Sometimes, Zach had to be a bit sneaky to make sure she ate.

On some days, Madelyn would walk a bit or just lay in bed. Yet, she felt frustrated with how much Zach was babying her. “I can take care of myself,” she said, pulling her hand away.

But Zach, always looking out for her, helped her with her coat. “Just let me do this,” he gently said, buttoning up her coat.

“Mr. Jardin, Ms. Jent, dinner’s ready,” Margaret announced, cradling Dalton in her arms at the entrance.

Though scabs still marked Dalton’s face, he was clearly on the mend. If he happened to touch those

scabs, it would distress him. In the past, he was a bundle of energy in Madelyn’s arms. However, since she cradled him again just yesterday, he’s shown a calm and contented side. At meals, he would often sneak glances at Madelyn and giggle. With rosy, chubby cheeks, Dalton was the picture of health and happiness.

The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning by Max Charming Chapter 850

At the dinner table, Madelyn was feeding Dalton some chicken puree. When Dalton tried to grab the spoon, Zach reacted faster, holding Dalton’s hand back. “Stop squirming and eat.”

Dalton let out a protesting whimper at Zach and suddenly dunked his hand into the bowl. Madelyn steadied the bowl immediately.

“Acting up, are we?” Zach’s tone was stern.

Madelyn wiped Dalton’s hands with some napkins. “He’s just a kid. Why’re you being so hard on him? He doesn’t understand.”

“Maybe the maid should feed him.”

Madelyn had wished Zach could be more understanding toward Dalton. Watching Dalton, with his bottom lip quivering and tears forming in his closed eyes, was heart-wrenching for her. The emotion she felt was all too familiar; she could not bear to see Dalton cry. Without finishing her meal, Madelyn took Dalton into her arms and moved to the couch. As she did, Margaret approached with a bottle of baby formula, saying, “Ms. Jent, giving Dal this might soothe him.”

“Thanks for all your help recently. If you ever need a day off, just let me know.”

Margaret waved her hand dismissively. “I’m not tired. I just cook and look after Dal. It’s more relaxed here than at my own home.” When Dalton got hurt under her watch, she had been too afraid to face Madelyn. However, realizing that Madelyn did not blame her brought relief.

Zach sat down next to Madelyn with a bowl of oatmeal. When she looked up from Dalton, he offered her a spoonful. “Finish the oatmeal first. The baby can wait a moment.”

Madelyn said, “I’ve had enough.”

“Just a few more bites?”

“I can’t eat any more.”

As Madelyn tried to move away with Dalton, Zach followed closely. She knew even if she went to the room, he would persuade her to finish the oatmeal. When she paused, he asked, “Are you sure you won’t finish this?”

“Do you realize you’re being a bit much?”

Dalton clutched his bottle in Madelyn’s arms. His big eyes, still shiny from crying, looked as if he was watching an exciting movie.

Zach said, “Whether you find me annoying or not, you have to eat.” Without waiting, he fed Madelyn another spoonful. She joked, “At this rate, I’ll gain weight.”

With a smile, Zach wiped her mouth and replied, “A few extra pounds? You’d rock them.”

Madelyn felt Zach’s intense gaze, different from his usual looks. She finished her food and turned her attention elsewhere. “I’m done. You can leave.”

“Alright.” Zach put the spoon away and playfully ruffled her hair. “Take a little break. I’ll be in the office, working on some stuff.”

Madelyn lay on the bed, feeling sleepy and not really paying attention to Zach. Dalton, cradled in her arms, hiccupped softly, looking content after his meal. Gently tapping his nose, she asked, “Dal, can you say mama’ again for me?”

Dalton squinted, resting his hand on her chest, and called out, “Mama.”