Madelyn followed behind Zach. Just as they left the school gate, she received a call from Ethan. Glancing at Zach's back, Madelyn hesitated before answering, "Hello?"

"You have a long break starting today, right? How about I ask Leyton to pick you up and have lunch together?" asked Ethan.

Madelyn said, "I... need to go to Zach's place. Rosario is ill. I want to check on her."

"I see. Well, be careful on your way. You can stay a bit longer, and I'll come to pick you up in the evening."

"Okay."

After ending the call, Madelyn approached the car. As she was about to open the door for the back seat, Zach's cold voice came through, "Sit up front."

Reluctantly, Madelyn put down her hand and settled into the front passenger seat. Suddenly, Zach, who was in the driver's seat, leaned over and fastened her seatbelt. Madelyn felt nervous and was unable to breathe. She had an ingrained fear of him. It intensified after learning about Julia's death. The car started moving slowly, and neither o