CHAPTER NINETY FIVE: ACCEPTING JAKE

Madeline reached Jake's house with a mix of nerves and nostalgia, contemplating whether to knock on his door. Moments of hesitation nearly led her to leave, but just as she turned, Jake swung the door open, catching her by surprise. " Madeline? What are you doing here?". She laughs nervously "Oh, hey Jake. I was just in the neighborhood, you know, thought I'd drop by." Jake smirking leaned on the door Post " In the neighborhood? We both know that's not true. What's really going on, Maddie?." Madeline sighs and smiles Okay, fine. I missed you. There, I said it." Jake grinning pulled Madeline into a warm embrace, his arms wrapping around her as if to shield her from the world. In that moment, words seemed unnecessary—there was a silent understanding between them that transcended the need for explanations. "I've missed you, Madeline," Jake confessed, his voice carrying a mixture of sincerity and warmth. Madeline, her heart responding to the genuine connection, replied, "I missed you too,