Chapter 4

The outcome, as expected, was a torrent of scolding from my parents and teachers, a cascade of laughter from my classmates for my perceived hubris, and a cold shoulder from those I held dear.

I can still recall the vivid memory of that day when Charline stood beside my desk. "Madeline Cooper, do you realize how wrong you are?"

I mustered a weak smile in response, but my fingers tightened around the doll in my hand, slicing it into even smaller fragments.

"You gifted this to me on my tenth birthday. Are you pleased now?"

Awaking from the dream, I found that Charline had already departed for work.

"Charline is such a wonderful child. Despite her complaints yesterday, she's full of vigor and arrived early at the company today," my mother remarked with pride.

"Is that so?" I replied.

I swallowed the sandwich in one gulp, so my words were muffled by the food. "That's good."

I must confess that a part of me was relieved that she hadn't resigned, fearing that all my meticulous planning would have been for naught.

Today, I was scheduled to visit Charline's company to discuss a potential collaboration. Prior to leaving, I took extra care with my appearance, applying a makeup regimen rumored to be irresistible to men.

Even my attire deviated from my usual rigid workwear, opting instead for a light apricot short skirt suit that hinted at a softer, more approachable side.

"Madeline, are you heading out on a blind date after work?" my colleagues teased with playful curiosity.

"Madeline, you look absolutely stunning today!"

I paused by their workstations, chuckling at their chatter.

"Gather your materials and let's go; today's the big day."

Standing at the threshold of Charline's company, I breathed a sigh of relief. My spirits were lifted.

A thrilling spectacle would unfold.