Chapter 729:

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“I know. But I haven’t. And you don’t need to explain to me the things that have changed in you.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“You love him.” I swallowed hard and straightened up. “I can see it right through your smile—how your eyes light up every time you hear his name. But like I said before, I’ll wait for you, Madi.”

“Greg—” He pressed his index finger gently to my lips.

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“I’ve waited for you for eight years. I’m willing to wait another eight, or longer, if that’s what it takes.”

I took his hand in mine. “Greg, I don’t know how to put what I feel into words for you.”

“Madi, just let me do this, please. It’s all I can do for you—stand by your side whenever you need me. At the very least, let me be the friend you need. I’m still here, Madi.”

Since I couldn’t find the words, I just hugged him again.

“Don’t feel pressured by any of this, okay? I’m not saying it to make you feel like you have to do something, or to push you away. I just want you to know you can have me as a friend, or… something else, if that’s ever what you want.” He shrugged, and I punched him lightly in the shoulder.

“Thanks again, Greg. You have no idea how lucky I feel, having had you as a friend from the very start.”

“Ouch. I’m just your friend?” He pretended to look wounded.

“Greg!”

“Kidding. So, can I go?”

“Yes, but be careful. And thanks for the drinks.” I winked at him.

He chuckled. “No problem. Goodnight, Madi.” He kissed my forehead.

“Goodnight, Greg. Take care!” I waited until his car pulled away and disappeared from sight.

Then I walked to the front door. All the lights were already off, but I had my own key, just in case it was locked. I was humming to myself as I stepped inside, dropping my key back into my purse, phone still in hand. I’d barely taken my first step when a thunderous voice erupted from the living room, and the lights flicked on. There, glaring at me, was the furious face of my “husband.”

“Where have you been?”

I gasped, hand flying to my chest, nearly dropping my phone in shock.

For God’s sake, why is he still up at this hour? I wondered, staring straight at him.

“I just went out with my friends,” I answered casually, once I’d gathered myself.

“Out with your friends, Madi? At this hour?” he yelled. I honestly couldn’t believe he was actually shouting at me.

“Hey, hold on, dear husband—why are you angry?” I asked, laughing sarcastically.

“Why am I angry? Are you seriously asking me that, Madielyn?”

My eyes widened at that.

“Wow. So now I’m Madielyn to you, dear husband?”

“Are you drunk?”

“Me, drunk? No! Maybe just a little tipsy… but drunk? Nah.”

“I am not drunk. And excuse me, I’d just like to go rest.” I tried to walk past him, but he caught my hand.

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