Following one another, they stepped into the study, Zach closing the door behind them. The tension in the room was thick enough to touch, enveloping them.

Hayson lit a couple of candles in the room, creating an almost sacred ambiance. "Made some new friends recently?"

The sudden question caught Madelyn off guard, her breath hitching as her heart pounded in her chest. "Y-Yes... Father, have I done something wrong?"

Hayson took a seat at his desk, his gaze fixed on her as Zach stood by his side. "Madelyn, do I frighten you?"

Madelyn lowered her gaze, weighing her words before she meekly replied, "No... it's just that you're often too strict. I'm afraid of making mistakes and being punished."

This was unexpected. Hayson studied her carefully. His daughter was changing. The brashness of her youth was fading. "When did you become acquainted with the Arnolds?"

'The Arnolds? I only know one person by that name. Something must've happened. Given Father's tenacious nature, if something ha