Chapter 57 Congratulations

Samuel's breath seemed to linger by Madeline's ear, and the heat in her cheeks refused to fade. She looked up at him. His eyes were so warm and intense that she didn't know how to respond. "You—" Madeline started, but Samuel cut her off. "Alright. I'm done teasing you." He straightened, his tone easing back into its usual gentleness. "It's late. You just finished a long day. Go home and rest." Madeline finally let out the breath she'd been holding and nodded quickly. "Okay. You should head back early." She turned to walk into the complex, but Samuel called after her. "Madeline." Madeline turned back, looking at him in confusion. He always called her "young lady". Hearing him say her name like that felt strangely unfamiliar. "No matter what happens, you can lean on me," Samuel said seriously. "I'll wait for you to trust me. Whenever you turn around, I'll be there." Something stirred in Madeline's chest. She met his gaze and said softly, "Thank you." This time, she didn't refus