“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?”

personal property,”

“Then consider this your invitation. Open it.” For a long moment, Madelyn remained motionless.

unfolded

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,

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

But you chose silence, Ethan. Does it mean you deem my

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

but retained its edge. “There are things I’d never

panic, as if something was

engagement, go ahead. Prof. Monet has an opportunity to teach at the Paris Art Academy for three months as a guest

just anyone could land such an opportunity. Internally, Madelyn

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