The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning

Chapter 31

Zach studied Madelyn intently, his gaze now surprisingly softened. Normally, his eyes held an icy, disdainful distance whenever they fell upon her. Thus, she recognized the flicker of tenderness mirrored in his look–the same tenderness he reserved for Jadie.

Feeling a mix of surprise and apprehension, Madelyn locked eyes with Zach, her nerves jangling. ‘He’s never been like this before… What could have gone wrong? I can’t recall doing anything out of the ordinary.‘

Breaking the silence, Zach’s voice cut through the tension. “Jadie would be happy if she knew how much you care about her. But what about you? Are you into Ethan?”

“Huh?” Madelyn’s bewilderment deepened, her thoughts racing. “Why is he suddenly bringing up Ethan? Is he on drug or something? This is so strange.”

Zach remained silent; his focus unwavering as he observed her reaction. Then, abruptly, he withdrew his hand and reverted to his usual cold and distant demeanor, as if the fleeting tenderness he had shown was nothing more than an illusion.

“No!” Madelyn exhaled a relieved breath, feeling the weight on her shoulders lift, and an overwhelming urge to flee washed over her. But just as she was on the cusp of making her escape, a searing and calloused hand seized her wrist, anchoring her in place. Her voice trembled as she asked, “Zach… Wh–What’s the matter? Do you need anything?”

hungry. Cook me

was a skill she had yet to master at this point of life, and Zach was well aware of that. In fact, she could turn a kitchen into chaos

could refuse, Zach swiveled around and retreated to the couch, his

semblance of rest.

Madelyn knew he had indulged a bit too much. Resigned to her fate, she made her way to

to herself that, in a way, she was still his sister. Thus, she resolved

warmth stirring within him. Strangely, the sight of Madelyn engrossed in her culinary tasks evoked images of a

simple: cook a plate of pasta for Zach. The dried

knew that Zach possessed an insatiable appetite, so she added a little extra. Fancy and elaborate dishes were far from her intentions; all she sought was

eggs and cheese to make the sauce. When the pasta was cooked, the bacon was ready as well. She drained the pasta and poured the sauce over it, placing the bacon on top. In addition to salt, she

it was properly fastened before delicately carrying

table. She turned her attention to the figure reclining on

called out, “Zach, wake