章 68: Chapter 68: All Deep Love is Not a Secret (8)

Over the years, her true nature had never changed. It's just that her eccentric humor and lively spirit were shown to everyone except him. Towards him, she was always gentle, well-mannered, and dignified.

It was as if the time when they were "riding bamboo horses together, playing with green plums around the bed," was merely a unique illusion.

-

Despite it being such a beautiful past, there was an unspeakable bitterness choking him in his throat whenever Steve Burton recalled those times.

Swallowing hard, he slightly moved forward two steps.

Madeleine seemed to notice the movement behind her, and suddenly turned her head. Upon seeing Steve, she subconsciously wanted to call out "brother" but was silenced by Steve's hand gesture.

Swiftly shutting her mouth, Madeleine glanced at Ruby Gregory, who was entirely focused on playing Backgammon with Howard Coleman, and silently stood up to give Steve a seat.

With smooth and almost soundless motions, Steve sat down beside Ruby.