The Remorseful Brothers

Chapter 36

Winslet observed Madeline as she lowered her head and consumed her oatmeal in a subdued manner.

Unconsciously, a strategic scheme took shape in Winslet’s mind.

Considering the family’s strong preexisting aversion toward Madeline, she orchestrated a plan to intensify their negative opinions about her.

Then, even as she returned to school, Madeline could not affect her.

With those thoughts

in mind, Winslet could not suppress a surge of exhilaration, leaving her brimming with enthusiasm as

she ascended the staircase,

Only after her departure did Madeline set aside her spoon, casting a deep gaze at Winslet’s retreating figure.

Madeline knew that Winslet would not grant her the slightest respite. She would undoubtedly seize the opportunity to push her into a corner.

Madeline stood up and ventured out into the courtyard.

Layla’s gaze held unwavering vigilance.

1. ou. You cannot venture beyond the Larson residence until the annulment and the school enrollment

“Madeline, I’m telling you. are complete.

“Refrain from entertaining any inappropriate thoughts. You can study or do other things during this year at home,” she continued. “We’ll do our utmost to support you. You should not think that the family will harm you.

Madeline’s countenance remained impassive.

She directed her attention to the plants and trees in the courtyard, her contemplation serene. “It has been eight months. since my return, and I’ve yet to witness any support from you,” she said softly.

Layla’s eyebrows twitched involuntarily when she heard Madeline argue with her again. The family is preoccupied at the moment. I have no inclination to deal with you. Don’t come over and make things difficult for me.”

Madeline neither confirmed nor refuted Layla’s assertion.

Inwardly, she was diligently preparing for her imminent departure from the Larson family.

“This time, I will leave the Larson family in Winslet’s way,” she resolved internally.

Madeline did not believe the Larson family would ever entertain remorse or repentance toward her during this lifetime. That was why she intended to sever her ties with the Larson family entirely and without reservation.

A faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips. Madeline had always been an adept performer.

There was only a mere 48 hours remaining until the engagement cancellation banquet.

Benjamin came by at noon.

After a short chat with Winslet, he saw Madeline, who was engrossed in weeding the courtyard. His demeanor appeared slightly unsettled.

“Even if our compatibility is in question, and we dissolve the

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Chapter 36

rested the hor she held “Is that

for Winslet have always been present. Doesn’t your conscience twinge when you use me for mere amusement?” Madeline asked, offering Benjamin a smile that

she rarely displayed such a composed demeanor toward

Madeline, standing in

fair, straight

lowered

Madeline had been

you, he confessed with genuine remorse. “Yet, matters of the heart resist coercion. It’s not fair for you to

further exchange of words. He hoped that Madeline’s resentment toward him might

toward me starting the day after tomorrow?”

on Madeline’s face. “No, I won’t. I’ve made peace with the situation. I admit I once held genuine affection for you, but

herself to

strayed near her cheek I beli care about you. If this path brings you greater joy, I

guilt in Benjamin’s heart

know Madeline, she was not so

intelligent, very hardworking, and had unique insights into many

be happier with Winslet. In fact, I

and, in certain aspects, did

extend the conversation,

on this any further. The excessive talk will only stir melancholy within me. You also want the wedding agreement annulment banquet to proceed as scheduled without a hitch,

sigh seemed to escape Madeline as she

her delicate and fragile form, Benjamin noted a weariness in her demeanor. He speculated that the past few days had affected

instant, Benjamin’s heart

treated her so callously, especially considering her profound affection for him amidst the

the circumstances, Madeline’s feelings

you during the engagement banquet, you do not need to return them. Consider

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Chapter 36

providing compensation,”

steps came to an abrupt halt, and she

like Benjamin, who were shrouded in

speak,

Benjamin, Madeline’s lips curled into

the daytime, Madeline dutifully confined herself to

belongings into trash

a single strand of my hair would remain

try to escape or deliberately provoke

she shown this side of herself earlier, could our disdain for her have

home in high spirits

Madeline’s present disposition, he exhibited nonchalance. “After all, she’s still a child, not yet fully matured mentally. When the family applies pressure, she understands the boundaries of her

“We shouldn’t have been so kind to her in the past. Perhaps we wouldn’t have wasted an entire month if we had been firmer from the onset. Oh, didn’t Henry give Winnie