Chapter 7
Upon returning, Maddie found out that the events from the gathering had been exposed on the Boston University forum, causing everyone at the school to buzz about it.
“Who does this pathetic attention–seeker think she is? Now she’s spreading rumors about Andy. Does she have no self–awareness? She’s not even worthy to tie his shoelaces!”
“Mr. Loreine is the heir of Boston’s elite society. The woman he loves belongs to the Jimmerson family from Boston. He’s been loyal to her for years–how could he ever be involved with some poor nobody? She must be delusional!”
“I heard she’s actually seeing a man in his fifties. She concocted this lie when her classmates discovered the truth. She’s vain and shameless. Having someone like her as a classmate is a disgrace to Boston University!”
As Maddie read the endless sarcasm and abuse online, it felt as if a dark cloud had engulfed her heart, plunging her into deep despair.
Her roommates tried to defend her, but their voices were drowned out by the overwhelming backlash.
Left with no other choice, she deactivated all her social media accounts and kept reassuring herself that this would eventually pass.
As time went by, Maddie completed her graduation process and went to inform her recuperated mother about her plans to study abroad. –
Preoccupied with her own affairs, she hadn’t seen Andy for several
0.00%
14:46
Chapter 7
11
days. Upon returning to the villa, she found him sitting on the couch, waiting for her.
“Where have you been these days? You’ve been completely absent.”
“Something came up at school,” Maddie said, lowering her eyes and offering a casual excuse.
“School? Aren’t you about to graduate? What could possibly be keeping you busy?”
Maddie wanted to keep her study abroad plans a secret from Andy, so she could only say, “Just busy with graduation stuff.”
Andy frowned, sensing that something was off.
Before he could question her further, Maddie’s phone rang. She took the call and exited the room.
Hearing a faint male voice, Andy’s expression darkened. He closed his phone and trailed after her.
A male student was handing over the school–issued visa and documents to Maddie on behalf of Larissa.
After thanking him, she turned to find Andy staring at her intensely.
“Who is he? What does he want with you?” Andy asked.
Maddie held the bag behind her, her smile fading as she softly explained, “Just a classmate. He helped deliver my graduation certificate.”
Seeing her avoid his gaze, Andy’s expression turned even colder.
“Which classmate was so considerate to deliver it in person? Is he
38 40%
14:46 2
Chapter 7
11
interested in you?”
Maddie paused, puzzled by the implication.
“He was just doing a favor while passing by. We’re simply regular classmates. I have no idea who he likes, but it’s definitely not me.”
Andy regarded her intently, his voice cold.
“Regardless of your relationship, you are not to have any further contact with him.”
Maddie instinctively began to protest, “Mr. Loreine, I have the freedom to choose my friends…” but he cut her off.
“When you agreed to this arrangement with me, you gave up the freedom to make friends as you wish. I won’t allow any complications. If you become involved with someone like him again, you won’t remain by my side.”
At that moment, Crystal appeared, elegantly attired, and cheerfully took his arm as they prepared to get into the car.
“Andy, I’m ready. Let’s go.”
As Maddie watched the sports car zoom off, she shut her eyes.
At that moment, she craved freedom more than his company.
Their arrangement was nearing its end.
