Chapter 26 Once she had collected herself , Madelyn returned to the table and took her seat . Hayson , in a rare display of interest , asked , " Miss Manning mentioned that your grades have improved considerably recently , which is commendable progress from last time . What would you like as a reward ?" Usually , Hayson was stern toward her , seldom engaging in conversation even at the dining table . But with Jasmine's presence , it was evident that his mood was unusually pleasant . Seizing the opportunity , Madelyn made her request . " After the college entrance exams , I'd like to travel to Marisburg with some friends . May I , Dad ? " " Hmm , be sure to take a chauffeur with you . It's not safe to go out alone . " Hayson agreed . Not overly exuberant , Madelyn managed a small smile , replying , " Thank you , Dad . " At this , Jasmine chimed in . " Are you going to Marisburg to see the ocean , Madelyn ? I've heard the scenery there is excellent . After the college entrance exams , it would indeed be a good idea to unwind . " Madelyn gave a noncommittal response . " I haven't had a chance to go out and have fun in a while . " As a maid refilled Jasmine's juice glass , she asked , " Have you decided on which university you'd like to apply for ? If you're thinking about Ventropolis University , with your current grades , a final push could well secure you a place . " Ventropolis University was a reputable institute of higher education with moderate competition . Considering Madelyn's strong performance in liberal arts , her chances of admission were fairly high . Zach was aware of Madelyn's academic abilities . He had seen her test papers while at the hospital , and he knew she was more than capable of securing admission to Ventropolis University , one of the best universities in the country . Poking absently at her food , Madelyn responded in an indifferent tone . " I haven't decided yet . I'll see . " " That's fair . Once you've made up your mind , I can help you formulate a study plan . Don't forget to keep up with your studies . " Jasmine projected the air of a concerned mentor , the same façade that had tricked Madelyn in her previous life . She would not stay in Ventropolis ; that much she had decided from the start . Studying abroad , even at an ordinary , non - prestigious university would suffice . Madelyn found her mind wandering throughout dinner . When Zach tried to engage her in conversation , she responded with vague affirmations . With Hayson thoroughly ensnared by Jasmine and Zach focused entirely on Jadie , Madelyn excused herself from the table midway 1/2 through the meal . Regardless of whether Jasmine would become part of the Jent family or not , it no longer had anything to do with her . Stepping out onto the small balcony of her room , Madelyn stared at the tightly shut window across from her . Glancing at the time , it was already noon . ' Hasn't he woken up yet ? ' As she wondered about his activities , Madelyn noticed a convoy of black cars pulling up at the villa next door . She watched , curiosity piqued , as a chauffeur emerged from a stretched Cayenne and assisted a young man , clad in a black casual outfit with a dignified posture , into a wheelchair . ' Is that Ethan ? " From this angle , Madelyn could only see his back . More than a dozen bodyguards emerged from the vehicles , a formidable display that gave off an air of organized crime . ' What exactly does his family do ? ' Madelyn had never asked . From an earlier argument she had overheard between Ethan and a woman , she had some idea . Ethan's misfortune was linked to his family , hence why she rarely brought it up . Their usual conversations revolved around mundane day - to - day topics . She had not managed to get a good look at his face . Protected by his bodyguards , Ethan had already entered the villa . Not long after , a knock sounded at her door . It was Zach . He mentioned that Hayson had called for her as he wanted to discuss something . Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!