Chapter 669

"Mommy, someone's knocking." Liam tugged at Madeleine's sleeve when he saw her spacing out and moved to open the door. She quickly stepped in front of him, speaking gently. "Go play with your brother for a bit." Madeleine walked to the door, peeked outside—it was a delivery guy. "Hi there, just need a signature." She signed for the package but didn't take it inside. Instead, she opened it right there in the monitored hallway. Phoebe probably wouldn't try anything dangerous by mail, but still, better safe than sorry. Inside was a carefully arranged box of pears. Frowning slightly, Madeleine couldn't figure out what Phoebe was up to. There was a card inside. The message read: "Separation is the greatest pain. While families gather during New Year, you'll be alone. Beckett's gone. Take care of yourself. The burns, the infection, the resulting organ failure… it was too much. Maybe death was his escape. Sorry for your loss." Her hands froze holding the card—then her whole body started shaki