Chapter 164
Joel was unaware of what was happening at home and assumed his parents were simply worried about Winslet’s safety. “Dad, Mom, don’t worry,” he said. T’ve got someone tracking down where Winnie is. I promise I’ll bring her back safe and sound.”
“You’re the only one who actually cares about Winnie.” Layla sighed. “Madeline’s got Jacob completely fooled, and now he’s treating Winslet like this.” Layla was genuinely worried that their hopes of becoming in–laws with the Horton family were slipping away.
Joel’s anger flared. He rolled up his sleeves and growled, “Til teach Jacob a lesson! How could he treat her like that? Winnie’s stood by us through everything without a single complaint. He’s way too easily influenced!”
Afraid the truth would come out, Layla quickly stepped in. Forget it Don’t go after him. Focus on finding Winnie! She was probably taken by Madeline. You know those people wouldn’t hesitate to kill I’m terrified she’ll do something awful to your sister.”
Joel’s eyes turned cold. “If Madeline so much as touches Winnie, I’ll kill her!”
Meanwhile, Winslet was in a freezing basement, strapped down by cold instruments. The faint smell of cigarette smoke filled the air, and through the haze, she heard someone cursing.
“Ms. Larson specifically said nothing should happen to her! Are you out of your mind, smoking in here? You trying to get yourself killed?” one of the men growled.
“Fine, I got it. It’s just a cigarette. I used to smoke all the time, and nothing happened, the other guy grumbled. Then, annoyed, he slapped Winslet. “She’s not bad looking. Why does she need plastic surgery?
Benson was busy sterilizing his tools and snorted. She ticked off the wrong person. Let’s see what we can do to fix her. Her eyes are too small. Well widen them–give her that exotic look. Her nose definitely needs to be more upturned, We’ll plump up her checks for a more youthful appearance. Oh, and let’s give her some poury lips too
those typical puffed–up, moon
The assistant clicked his congue in approval. “Your aesthetics never change. All your patients end up looking like the faces. But lately, it’s all about that ‘innocent but seductive‘ look. You should give her those fox eyes”
“Is that what’s trending?” Benson was thoughtful for a moment. “Fine, let’s add that too. As long as Ms. Larson is happy, that’s what matters.” Winslet couldn’t move but was still fully conscious. The anesthesia clearly wasn’t working as it should. She wanted to scream, to resist, but her body wouldn’t obey
“Hey, Benson, she’s crying,” the assistant remarked when he noticed Winslet sobbing
However, Benson glanced at her without emotion. “The anesthesia’s too weak. Give her another dose
Winslet felt a sharp sting and the cold rush of the drug in her veins before slipping into unconsciousness. At that moment, she wished she could just die. She didn’t want to wake up ever again
Meanwhile, Madeline and Harper were out shopping. Harper, sipping on her drink, was in high spirits. “You called me out shopping again this afternoon. What were you up to this morning!”
“Nothing much, just had some business to take care of, Madeline said casually, obviously not about to tell Harper she’d abducted Winslet.
She added, “By the way, what should I wear to the concert! I heard people in the front row can take photos with the artists. I definitely want to be in
those shots
Harper looked surprised. “Wait, you’re going to Yohannes concert? No way! Those tickets were impossible to get. I’m going too! Where are your seats? I had to buy mine from a reseller, and my seat is all the way in the back. It was so frustrating. The tickets sold out so fast
Madeline blinked. “I think I’m in the front row. It’s an insider seat, I guess.”
“I’m so jealous” Harper said, narrowing her eyes. “Must be nice working with Yoh crew not going! Maybe I could buy their ticket. I’ll pay whatever it takes
Yohannes. You even get the best seats. Is there anyone in your film
Madeline laughed and shook her head. “I don’t know about that Aren’t you supposed to be helping me pick an outfit? What do people usually wear
to concerts?
even a potato sack. But since it’s outdoors and chilly. I’d say go for a
Harper tapped her chin. “With your looks, you could probably wear anything, even a potato dress with some nude tights and knee–high boots. That’d be super cute.”
Slar clnuckled. “Oh, and his fandom color’s pink, so definitely wear something pink”
“Tink?” Madeline was surprised.
Chapter 164
“Yeah, haven’t
how great Yohannes looked with pink hair? Like a real–life comic character!” Harper said, practically bouncing with excitement. You should totally go for a cute, sweet look.”
With that, Harper dragged Madeline off to find the perfect outfit. Madeline was still trying to wrap her head around the idea of pink being the fandom color, but Harper had already picked out her entire look.
Soon, it was December 6th. By December tith, winter had fully set in. Acocester was in the south, but it was still just 36 degrees Fahrenheit, so pretty
cold.
Yohannes had been working nonstop, rehearsing intensely, with barely any time for the film crew, Madeline hadn’t seen him much lately, and even when their paths did cross, he was always in a rush.
Whenever no one was looking, he would hold her hand briefly, then quickly wave goodbye when someone approached.
On the day of the concert, Yohannes was wearing a thin black down jacket as he finished his final rehearsal. The seating area was still everything was set up, and beautifully decorated. The circular stage gave him a clear view of all the seats.
empty, but
Music billed the venue as Yohannes glanced toward the front row, wondering if she would show up. After the rehearsal, he turned to Jasper. “Where’s Madeline?
“She’s probably still working late with the film crew, Jasper replied. “She’s really dedicated, didn’t take any time off. I doubt she’s coming. You invited her to the concert, huh? Didn’t she tell you she wasn’t coming?”
A flicker of disappointment crossed Yohannes face. “Yeah, he muttered, walking back toward the backstage area.
Rockley was confused. Jasper, when did you go snooping about Madeline’s schedule?”
“I didn’t,” Jasper admitted with a shrug. I lied. I can’t stand seeing him look so hopeless. Besides, with his stubborn attitude, he’d never ask her if she’s actually coming”
Rockley
ey couldn’t help but laugh. “You’re cruel.”
Back at her place, Madeline was getting ready in front of the mirror. Underneath, she wore a wool thermal top for warmth, and over it, a flowing. layered dress made of soft blush–pink tulle.
Her outer coat was short, petal–shaped, and pink, stopping mid–thigh, giving her a sweet and feminine look. Her legs were long and slender, and her hair was curled into soft waves, though she hadn’t done her makeup yet.
Soon, Harper arrived, arms filled with light sticks and sporting a bunny ear headband. “Madeline. I brought you a headband!” she said, placing a marching bunny ear one on Madeline’s head.
Usually, Madeline had a cool, aloof vibe, but now she looked somewhat silly and cute. Harper clapped her hands. “You look so adorable! Anyone would want to kiss you right now!”
Madeline stayed quict. She definitely didn’t want anyone kissing her!
