The awkward silence that followed Madeline's confession lingered like a heavy cloud over the dinner table. Sensing the need to break the tension, Madeline's parents turned their attention to Marie's new boyfriend, Ashton. "So, Ashton," her father began, attempting to shift the focus, "tell us a bit about yourself. What do you do?" Ashton, maintaining a calm demeanor, smiled. "Well, Mr. and Mrs. Hawthorne, I'm currently in college, studying computer science. I'm also handling one of my father's companies, although my dream is to start my own programming company someday." Madeline's parents exchanged surprised glances. "That's quite impressive, young man. Hardworking and ambitious," her mother noted. Ashton nodded appreciatively. "Thank you. I believe in working hard for what you want." Curiosity piqued, her father continued, "And how did you meet Marie?" Marie couldn't resist jumping into the conversation, a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "Oh, it's a romantic tale, really. Remember th

Madeline watched him drive away before entering her house with a smile still lingering on her lips. She leaned on the door and sighed she couldn't remember when last she'd had so much fun. Madeline went to Marie's room and knocked. She heard come in so she went in. She sat bedside Marie on the bed. "So how was your night" Marie asked. Madeline blushed and Marie raised her eyes wondering if Madeline and Jake had done the deed. Marie grinned at Madeline's blush, sensing that her sister had enjoyed the evening. "Spill the details, Maddie. I want to know everything," Marie teased, nudging her playfully. Madeline laughed, shaking her head. "Nothing scandalous, Marie. We just talked and laughed a lot. It felt good, though." Marie's eyes twinkled mischievously as she sat up. "You know, Maddie, I've been thinking. Maybe it's time for you to open your heart to someone new, someone who genuinely cares about you." Madeline hesitated, contemplating Marie's words. "I'm not sure, Marie. I don't th

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,

Madeline comes out of the bathroom with the dress on. Stephanie gasp "damn girl, I wish you'd dress like this every day, you look hot." Amanda squealing drags her to the mirror so she could do her make up and get hair. After some hours Amanda is finally finished. Madeline twirls in front of the mirror, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Stephanie and Amanda can't contain their enthusiasm. "Madeline, you look smoking hot! Jake won't know what hit him!". "Seriously, if he doesn't fall head over heels tonight, I don't know what will do the trick." Madeline blushes "Thanks, guys. I just hope I don't make a fool of myself." Stephanie reassures her "Nonsense! You'll be amazing. Just be yourself, and everything will fall into place."As they prepare to leave, Madeline grabs her purse. Amanda teasingly asks "Are you sure you're ready for this, Madeline? Once Jake sees you in that dress, there's no turning back." Madeline rolls her eyes playfully: "Oh, please. I'm not trying to seduc

Jake continues his painful story, recounting how he and Rachel had known each other since childhood, their relationship blossoming during high school. Everything seemed smooth until a new kid arrived, catching Rachel's attention. Jake couldn't ignore the way Rachel looked at him or her persistent attempts to befriend the new guy under the guise of friendliness. One day, suspicions turned into reality when Jake stumbled upon Rachel and the new kid sharing a kiss in an empty classroom. Heartbroken, he overheard their conversation where the new kid asked about Jake. Rachel callously dismissed their relationship, claiming Jake was too nice, and she preferred someone with a rough edge – a bad boy. Madeline listens intently, feeling the weight of Jake's past on his shoulders. She gently squeezes his hand, silently encouraging him to continue with his painful tale. Jake continues, detailing how he left school immediately after discovering Rachel's betrayal. Consumed by a mix of anger and hea