Chapter 408: Wait For My Return

Madelyn could never forget how tragic Josiah's fate had been in his previous life. Josiah hailed from a prestigious military family; even if his fate had been filled with hardship, it wouldn't have been disastrous. In that previous life, he had always taken the fall for her, shouldering blame for many unfounded accusations, simply because he was always there to help. Back then, Madelyn already had a notorious reputation, and her friends were associated with it.

Josiah's life took a drastic turn after he met her. His fate, like a stone cast into the sea, followed a downward trajectory, ultimately leaving him lost in the ocean's depths. In his previous life, Josiah didn't blame Madelyn; he willingly accepted his fate. However, Madelyn was filled with deep shame. He had no obligation to help her, let alone sacrifice his life.

At that moment, given a second chance, Madelyn couldn't bear to watch him fall again. Josiah had once risked his life for her, sacrificing his own wonderful life. Therefore, in their current life, Madelyn wanted him to shine, to rise to prominence, to achieve great success, and to earn a reputable name.

Madelyn's gaze hardened as she considered his future. She filled her glass and proposed a toast. "Josiah, let me toast to you," she said.

"You?" Josiah paused, looking at her with doubt. "This liquor is strong. Can you handle it?"

"Tsk! I may not be a legendary drinker, but this is nothing to me," Madelyn chuckled. "This is to wish you the strength to forget the unpleasant things. From now on, your life will only ascend, like a cheat code activated. No room for decline. The day you return triumphant and successful, we'll greet you with great fanfare. What do you think?"

A flicker crossed Josiah's eyes. He nodded. "All right." They drained their glasses.

Tristan watched, shouting from the sidelines, "Hey! Madelyn, what's the deal? I'm enlisting too! Why only wish Josiah success and not me?"

Madelyn refilled a glass and held it toward Tristan. "After joining the military, you'll undergo rigorous training. Regardless of your interest, you can't be so nonchalant. You must stop bumming around, okay?" She downed another glass.

Although in her previous life Madelyn hadn't known Tristan well, in this life, as good friends, she didn't want to see him adrift. Since Tristan had come to his senses and was turning over a new leaf alongside Josiah, Madelyn was thrilled.

Everyone continued drinking; some indulged in drinks, others sang, and a few whispered secrets. The atmosphere grew intense. Later, Madelyn wasn't sure how much she'd drunk, but many were tipsy.

A sudden surge of warmth rushed up from her lower body. Madelyn sensed something was wrong and clumsily pushed past others, rushing to the restroom.

Afterward, she saw Josiah waiting, seemingly wanting to say something but hesitating. "You…" Madelyn looked at him, puzzled.

"Will you walk with me?" Josiah asked with a smile.

Madelyn nodded. They left the private room and walked the streets, chatting aimlessly. Occasionally, a cold gust of wind blew, and they instinctively shrugged together.

"I remember when we first met," Josiah said, his tone melancholic. "It was summer in the southern suburbs, street racing. In a blink, half a year has passed, and it's winter."

Madelyn chuckled. "If you'd known meeting me would cause so much trouble, would you still have wanted to?"

"Of course," Josiah nodded slightly. "Even though I've hardly done a few things right, I've never regretted it."

"What about you? Do you regret meeting me?" Josiah asked, looking at Madelyn.

"Are we just friends?" Josiah halted, his gaze on Madelyn, inexplicably filled with tender affection.

For a moment, Madelyn couldn't meet his gaze. She knew those eyes were full of affection; these feelings could shatter their friendship. Hence, Madelyn mustered her courage. "Actually, I've always seen you as a dear brother."

Josiah gave a dejected smile, understanding his place in her heart. Tactfully changing the subject, he said, "No matter how you view me, please take care of yourself."

Madelyn was slightly taken aback.

"When I'm gone, I can't help you. Take it easy, control your temper, don't act impulsively. I know you well; you're kind-hearted, your strength hides vulnerabilities. Many are out to get you. It's easy to dodge an arrow in daylight, but not in the dark. Be careful, hire bodyguards if needed, remember any grudges. Take care. When I return, I'll take revenge for you!" Josiah said.

Unbeknownst to him, Josiah had given many instructions, all heartfelt. Madelyn felt a stinging sensation in her eyes.

Josiah halted, his eyes bright and steady. "Madelyn, I'm not strong enough now to protect you, but I assure you, when I return triumphant and renowned, I will be your safe haven. I will never let anyone hurt you again! Nobody!"