Chapter 525

Phoebe Turner quietly studied Madeleine—watching how she reacted, how much pressure she could handle. These little hiccups? Just tests from Phoebe. She was curious: where was Madeleine's breaking point? What would actually get under her skin? A small smirk tugged at Phoebe's lips. Most people had no idea—she'd minored in psychology and knew all about Madeleine's mental health struggles. "I said, show concrete proof that I'm in a relationship at work. A coworker giving me a ride home? That's hardly evidence," Madeleine shot back calmly. "You're still denying it even now? That's some serious stubbornness." "Yeah, your boyfriend's a real coward. If it were me, I'd own up to it." Someone tried to bait Marcus with a goad. Marcus just grinned and rubbed his nose. "True. If it were me, I'd admit it right away…" Right then, Beckett appeared, face dark, striding over. "Why is no one working? What's everyone standing around here for?" he asked with a frown. "Perfect timing, Mr. Beach. You're the