Twin Cupids at Work Daddy Come Home novel Chapter 523

Madeline stood quietly off to the side, listening, but she couldn’t ignore the uncomfortable stare coming from nearby. Lincoln was watching her, his eyes lingering in a way that made her skin crawl. He didn’t even try to be subtle, just stared right at her.

She frowned. That kind of look was hard to ignore, and honestly, it was just plain rude.

Julian didn’t even bother acknowledging them. He just turned and started to lead her away. Madeline let out a sigh. “Aren’t you worried your grandfather will come after you for getting into it with them because of me?”

Julian shrugged. “It was going to happen sooner or later. And it’s not just about you.”

He slipped his arm around her, steering her toward his room. Madeline stopped short at the doorway, planting her feet.

Julian glanced back. “What’s wrong?”

She pressed her lips together. “I’m not going in. I’ll head back to my own room. You should get some sleep.”

Before she could step away, Julian reached out and pulled her gently back. Madeline stiffened, her eyes flashing a warning. “Don’t get any ideas just because we’re at your place.”

He leaned down, resting his forehead against hers, letting out a low laugh. “Are you really that scared of me?”

Her heart jumped, thumping so loudly she was sure he could hear it. She shoved him away with all her strength.

Julian clearly hadn’t expected it. He stumbled back and hit his shoulder against the doorframe with a muffled thud.

Madeline’s eyes widened for a split second.

Julian rubbed his shoulder and grinned. “You’re stronger than you look.”

She bit her lower lip. “Sorry. I’m going to bed.”

Before he could say anything else, she darted away, practically running down the hall.

Julian watched her go, his dark eyes softening with affection as he took in her flustered escape. He didn’t mind. She was already here, and they had all the time in the world.

Miles could see it clearly now. Julian was putting Ms. Monroe above everything else.

The next morning, Madeline woke up, blinking at the ceiling in a daze before coming back to herself. She got up, went through her morning routine, and got dressed.

Just as she opened her door, she almost ran right into Julian, who was waiting outside. He stopped and gave her a small smile. “You’re up.”

Madeline nodded and stepped out, falling into step beside him.

“How’d you sleep?” Julian asked.

“Pretty well,” she answered.

A slow grin tugged at his lips. “Too bad I didn’t.”