Second by second passed. Ethan's body became tense, his jaw was in knots, and he seemed to enjoy the tension around him. The atmosphere was peaceful and tranquil, but fragile and vulnerable to breaking into pieces at any moment, as everyone stood patiently.
Under all of the pressure, Madeline felt that a long-held sense of courage was beginning to creep in. Nathaniel wasn't the only one who gave her strength, as she knew that if she left now, she would never step out of her past.
Slowly, Madeline lifted her chin. With a determined determination, she no longer stared nervously. A soft, almost rebellious smile slipped from her face beneath the skin.
She spoke clearly, stating "Ethan," in front of everyone she was. "Why should I fall apart if I was betrayed?''
In fact, I'm fortunate. I've come across someone who is far superior to you.
That word hit Ethan hard. He widened his eyes and withdrew his good-looking face, in a state that made him feel
They were met with an orange afternoon sun and a blue Hawaiian sky. A slight ocean breeze blew in, creating the sweet scent of tropical flowers. The sea was calm and peaceful. At the airport runway, a private car was waiting to take the newlyweds to upscale resort by Waikiki Beach. What can you do?As the warm air spread across his face, Nathaniel unfastened the top of his shirt. Unlike the chaotic city of Hawaii, they were able to experience the tropical vibe. It was just so different. He turned his gaze towards Madeline, who briefly stood close to the car, letting the sea breeze kiss her skin. A moment of silence followed. The calmness on her face was unlike anything he had ever witnessed. It was so refreshing.“Ready, Mrs. Brooks,” asked jollyly, but with a gentle tone.Making a partial smile, Madeline said, "It's still not the way I remember it."Nathaniel answered with the words, "You'll be here soon, and proceeded to open the
Nathaniel stopped just as the gap between them was beginning to shrink. He took a deep breath and moved back half step, his voice raspy but restrained, “No, not tonight. Never again.’’Madeline froze. For a prolonged period, she gazed at him with an uncomplicated fascination, wondering why he would calm down. "Why?” she asked in response.After making eye contact, Nathaniel calmly replied, "I'll not touch you because I don't want to hurt you." The goal is for you to pick the person who truly deserves me, not because of your desire.Madeline maintained a long look at him and then smiled faintly, tears still streaming down her eyes. “You’re too kind, Nathaniel.” He was furious with his response as he reached for the microphone.Nathaniel gave a slow shake to himself. "No, no," he replied. “It is my wish that I don't give you another reason for regret.”He retrieved a blanket from the sofa, gently
The white gown on Madeline was still fitting, even though the lace on her shoulder had been slightly torn off. Her skin was soft and glistening with the very slight light in the room. The refilled wine glass was almost full when she held it.Nathaniel spoke with a composed and firm tone, "Stop drinking. What did that mean? You're already too drunk."Madeline laughed only faintly, her eyes smoky from the intoxicating scent.“Too drunk? I'm just happy. After a while, I was able to witness Ethan's face and feel his shock. His expression was impressive to Nathaniel. It was delightful."Nathaniel looked at her with a blank stare, trying to deduce what was beneath her glassy-eyed expression and crooked smile.This time he said softly "Madeline," and almost whispered, "that makes you unhappy. Then it was.’’"With one breath, Madeline squirmed as she slowly drank the remaining wine. Not happy yet? Oh, I feel amazing. Ev
Softly, the words emerged and shook many in disbelief.Her eyes shone and Madeline lowered her gaze. "I'm aware." This expression came true.Despite her voice being barely audible, it was enough to stop Ethan."A love that causes pain is not the type of love I desire to maintain."Nathaniel slowly moved forward, positioned in between them with a firm and unwavering gaze. "If you still have any respect for your father, Ethan, I hope you'll leave me safely tonight before I forget about your family."Ethan maintained a long gaze at his uncle, with irregular breathing. At last, he breathed deeply, his lips exuding with a bitter smile. "Wouldn't you be surprised?" Who do you think I am?His gaze was imperceptible as he looked back at Madeline once more, his eyes blurring between love and longing.“Congratulations on your marriage, Madeline. Let your happiness remain as enduring as the time when I forgot you. "
Slowly, the grandeur of the ballroom began to fade away. After the love story, the music became more gentle during dinner, and the guests waited patiently to offer their congratulations to the newlyweds. Most of them were more interested in discussing how shocking this marriage had been and made everyone polite as she greeted each person.With a calm demeanor, Nathaniel held on to Madeline's hand, protecting her from all the sharp stares and inexplicable whispers that could be heard throughout the room.“Congratulations, Mr. Nathaniel and Miss Madeline were mentioned as guests from the ARS Company board during their wedding, which was an extraordinary event.‘I thank you so much,’' Madeline said with a slight smile on her face. With each handshake, she felt like she was in a perfect performance of her own character. The sight of a smile, courtesy, and affection appeared to be indicating love, but in reality was nothing more than the thin layer
After catching everyone's gaze, Ethan corrected his posture to appear calm. The incense boiled inside him like a fire. With one warning glance from his mother, he was forced to silence himself and tried to look away.Madeline's uncle Haris, who looked thrilled, came up to the Brooksville family at that moment.“Impressive, Risha. I never expected Nathaniel to actually do it. When he did. Madeline demands that he takes it seriously.”Risha proudly slapped her brother's hand. "I didn't anticipate it either. Nathaniel possesses the knowledge of his desires. And Madeleine, she deserves this."Standing in front of a high mirror, Madeline looked glamorous in tulle with lace on her shoulders as she prepared for the wedding. The dress was a work of art, combining elegance and simplicity. However, Madeline did not observe a joyful bride in the mirror. She witnessed a woman desperately trying to keep her own heart steady.The