Chapter 73

Madeleine squinted under the glaring headlights of several cars, barely able to keep her eyes open. Her fingers gripped the fruit knife hidden in her sleeve, trembling as she slowly backed away. She wanted to run, but her legs felt like lead—they just wouldn't move. She knew calling Alex was an option. But she didn't. She didn't want to drag Alex into this mess again. "You're really something, Madeleine." Clinton's voice dripped with sarcasm and disappointment. "A woman like you, that any man can have, and Alex still finds you worth it somehow." Madeleine inched back, trying to block out his words. "I told you to leave and never look back," Lucas said, lighting a cigarette casually, leaning against a car, just watching everything coldly. Step by step, Clinton moved toward her. A chill settled over Madeleine, like she'd fallen into an ice hole. "I underestimated you. Managing to get Charlotte thrown into jail? Impressive," Clinton sneered, grabbing her by the hair and yanking her toward