Nolan admired Madeline’s alluring curves and the clarity of her eyes beneath her long lashes.
“What kind of man will you marry?” he asked. “If it were me, would you be willing?”
His fingers brushed the corners of her eyes, revealing a moment of suppressed longing.
“You should get some rest. You’re still not fully recovered..” Madeline stammered, avoiding his gaze.
The air conditioning felt stifling, and she was overwhelmed by the heat.
Nolan appeared delicate, like a fragile ice sculpture, and she feared causing him sadness or discomfort, so she declined his advances as gently as possible.
Nolan’s intentions were clear,
, and she understood his feelings for her.
Having exhausted her emotions in her previous life, she wasn’t ready for love in this one, nor did she know how to love.
Nolan was deeply entrenched in Phantom Organization, and she didn’t know how to save him without falling into darkness herself. Madeline thought Nolan might do something but was surprised when he only chuckled and lightly scraped her nose with his finger. He said. “Stay here tonight, okay? It’s almost dawn. The night is nearly ever. I got through this time.
Next time, he wasn’t sure if he could make it. He could only endure until the day he couldn’t anymore, hoping to eventually free himself. Nolan lowered his head, brushing his forehead against hers and kissing her softly
He longed for her to be his mare, but she was still too young to understand love at just nineteen.
His eyes flickered as he noticed her flashed cheeks. “Madeline, you’re so
so sweet
Madeline remained still.
Nolan lay down beside her, tenderly covering her with a quilt.
Staring at the ceiling. Madeline felt the soft comfort of the bed and the calming scent of herbs nearby, which gradually soothed her spirit. Nolan was slowly drifting off to sleep.
his breathing was steady. He must be exhausted.
Madeline glanced sideways, Nolan’s eyes were shut, and his br
She shifted closer, reaching out to touch the bridge of his nose, but quickly withdrew her hand, startled.
She narrowed her eyes weary and thought of Nolan needing warmth while sick.
Though he was strong, he deserved sympathy in moments of weakness.
After Madeline fell asleep. Nolan quietly opened his eyes.
His heart sull ached, and his old illness was not easily h
healed
He smiled faintly, determined not to let her worry.
When Madeline woke, she found herself in her room. Sitting with the blanket in her arms, she felt a bit confused.
She thought,
Didn’t I sleep in Nolan’s room l
last night? Was it a dream?
She went downstairs and asked Hazel, Has Nolan woken up?”
“Mr. Fisher left early. He had a business, Hazel replied, adding no more. “Ms. Larson, would you like breakfast?”
Madeline shook her head. “No need, I just grab something quick. I have c
-class
She thought, ‘Nolan is recovering well. His old illne
fierce but flerting
Classes continued for several days.
By Friday, Harper invited Madeline for a hike.
With a break in her filming schedule and light schoolwork, Madeline agreed to the hike,
Chapter 223
On Friday morning. Harper and Madeline boarded the bus to Genting Mountain together.
Harper carried a large backpack. Sitting next to Madeline, she patted her backpack, showing off. “Madeline, I’ve packed all the snacks. There are potato chips, fruits, bottled water, cookies, and packed lunches.”
Harper eagerly showcased her treats. “Look, this one is delicious.”
Madeline looked at her preparations and hesitated. “I didn’t bring anything. With ten minutes left to drive, should I grab a few things too? I thought we could easily buy stuff on the mountain, so I didn’t bring anything.”
“No need.” Harper handed her a bottle of water. “I brought enough for both of us
The bus set off for a leisurely spring trip,
After half an hour, they left the city, descending from the highway into th
the secluded scenic area of the mountains,
The spring breeze and warm sunlight streamed through the windows, making Madeline squint comfortably.
The air was filled with the fragrance of wildflowers.
Feeling cozy and relaxed, Madeline said, “You were right. We should do this more often. I haven’t had a day out in ages. When I lived in the countryside, I often hiked in the mountains. Soon, the azaleas will bloom.”
“It’s on the mountain now.” Harper pulled out the guide. “Look, here’s a large patch of alpine azaleas at the top. It’s beautiful and untouched When we get there, we’ll take the trail from the foot of the mountain. It’ll take about six hours to reach the top, where we can camp and watch the night sky
Harper had done her research well.
In the front seats
sat two boys.
“Are you guys going hiking too? You’re college students, right? Matthew adjusted his black–rimmed glasses. “Do you want to join us?”
Harper noticed his attractive features and quickly agreed. “Sure! Are you going for a spring trip as well!”
Matthew shook his head, pointing to the boy beside him. “No, this is my friend Brooklyn. He’s going to the Chapel on the mountain to pray for his sick grandmother.
There’s a Chapel here, Hope Chapel. It’s known to be very effective.
“I also want to go there to pray for some romance.
Harper stifled a laugh. “So you’re single!”
Matthew nodded, “Never dated before.”
Madeline, admiring the scenery outside, smiled at their banter and pointed at Harper. “She’s never dated before either.
“It seems you
you can pray for the romance together at the Chapel
Maybe you should get to know each other.”
Harper gave Madeline a thumbs up, impressed with her insight.
Brooklyn was in a serious mood but teased. “That’s right. Maybe you two are meant for each other.”
As Madeline listened to their jokes, she felt more relaxed.
However, she thought of the Chapel. “I wonder if Hope Chapel is really that effective. I want to pray for a blessing of safety for my brother. Nolan
