Chapter 358

That night, Beckett had a dream. He was taken back years ago. That summer, Madeleine had just graduated high school. She was like a shining gem—everyone's favorite, top of her class in humanities, the very definition of a golden girl. Her eyes sparkled back then, full of pride and quiet confidence. "Bro, hey—this is my girlfriend," came Clinton's voice, just like before, at the Beach family house. Beckett froze, his expression souring instantly. Even in the dream, he could barely hold back the urge to punch Clinton. Because Clinton had introduced Madeleine with that infuriating, smug pride—like he was flaunting a trophy. "See? My girlfriend's amazing. Sure, I'm not as good as you, but at least I won in this." He had used Madeleine as his bragging rights. "Hi, Beckett... I'm Madeleine," she said softly, a little awkward, her shyness showing beneath all that quiet brilliance. Beckett looked at her, reached out his hand, and gave a small smile. "Beckett." She seemed a bit surprised—maybe