Chapter 163

"Your skin's amazing. Got a secret routine?" William leaned in, fingers brushing at Madeleine's hair like he had every right. Every muscle in her body tightened. Her heartbeat pounded so loud she thought he might hear it. That suffocating feeling hit hard again. Her stomach churned. God, she wanted to scream. But she couldn't. She had to keep it together—for Beckett. If she wanted to draw William out, she had to make him feel smug and in control. "Expensive skincare, mostly." Madeleine's voice trembled, but she forced herself to stay chill. William chuckled as he inched closer, misreading her discomfort as flirtation. "Word is, you know half the rich boys in Pinebrook. Not bad, Miss Landry." He gave her a pointed look. "Free this weekend? How about dinner?" Madeleine gave a faint nod. "Sure…" A crisp knock came from the door—three sharp raps. William's face instantly darkened, obvious displeasure at being interrupted. No doubt, he found Madeleine's looks and polished presence appealing