Chapter 26. The Gundio
Chapter 36: The Confrontation Call
Everyone who heard Madison’s words didn’t quite know what to say. It was obvious to them that Chloe was serious this time, and it seemed unlikely that she and Julian would ever reconcile
Julian remained silent, his expression growing darker by the minute.
“But it seems like they’re both serious about the breakup this time,” Daniel said, glancing at Julian before turning to address Madison. He recalled everything that had happened between Chloe and Julian and knew the situation was different now.
Madison, however, didn’t take the breakup seriously at all. She believed that Chloe was deliberately playing hard to get, trying to force Julian to lower his pride and chase after her. But there was no way she would allow that to happen.
“Well then, Ella, give her a call and get her over here. Throwing a tantrum for a few days is fine, but what’s she trying to prove with all of this? She’s embarrassing our family!” Madison fumed, clearly agitated, and was about to have Ella call Chloe over immediately.
Julian couldn’t stand it any longer. “There’s no need to call her. I was the one who initiated the breakup. I don’t want to see her, so there’s no point in calling her.
Madison froze, stunned by Julian’s admission.
What do you mean the breakup was your idea?” she asked, utterly baffled.
Ella was equally shocked, not having fully processed what Julian had just revealed. As they thought about it, the length of this disagreement started to make more sense.
Madison left the hospital room, her expression darkening as she pulled out her phone. She couldn’t believe her son’s claim of wanting a breakup. She was certain that Chloe was just trying to manipulate the situation by refusing to take care of Julian,
She quickly dialed Chloe’s number. The moment Chloe answered, Madison’s sharp, accusing tone came through the receiver.
*Chloe, you’ve really let this get to your head, haven’t you? The fact that my son was willing to pursue you and be with you was already him doing you a favor. And now you have the nerve to throw a tantrum in front of him? After all these years, after all the money he spent on you, the nice things he gave you- everything you’ve eaten, drank, or used was the best! And this is how you repay him? You’re worse than a dog, at least a dog knows how to show gratitude to its master! And you? You don’t even have that much sense.”
After berating Chloe, Madison continued, her voice full of contempt. “Let me tell you, throwing a tantrum has limits. You’ve already gone too far. Now, I demand that you come over and take care of my son.”
Chloe had barely had a chance to respond, but as Madison finally finished her tirade, she calmly spoke, I’m sorry, but your son has nothing to do with me anymore. His affairs are no longer my concem.”
Having said that, Chloe ended the call, blocking Madison’s number without hesitation. She saw no reason to maintain contact with Julian’s family. There were boundaries she needed to set for her own well–being.
Madison stared at her phone in disbelief. She had never imagined that Chloe would dare to hang up on her. In the past, Chloe had always been careful and respectful, never daring to act so boldly.
Now CLL
had the audacity to hang up on her?
“Fine, I’d like to see how long she can keep this up!” Madison muttered angrily, taking a deep breath as she pocketed her phone.
Meanwhile, Matthew had been watching Chloe’s expression throughout the call. Seeing her smiling afterward, he couldn’t help but ask “Did something good happen?”
Chloe chuckled, shaking her head. “Not exactly something good. I just managed to resolve a long- standing issue, so I’m feeling a bit lighter”
They spent the rest of the day studying in the library. By the time they left, a gentle breeze had cooled the day’s heat.
As they walked together, Matthew suddenly turned to look at Chloe’s serene profile. There was a certain coldness to her features that created a sense of distance.
After a moment of contemplation, Matthew decided to ask, “The other day, you mentioned we should grab dinner sometime. Today seems like a good opportunity. If you’re not up for it, we can reschedule. What do you think?”
Chloe thought for a moment. Though the timing was sudden, Matthew had been a great help to her recently. Plus, she was in a good mood today. Inviting him for dinner seemed like a nice way to express her gratitude
“No, I’m fine with it. How about I invite you over to my place? I cook pretty well,” Chloe offered with a
smile
Matthew was taken aback. Having dinner at her place felt like a big step. Was that appropriate?
“Are you sure?” he asked, unsure.
“Of course. I just thought that eating at home would be healthier. But if you have a favorite restaurant, we can go there instead. Whatever you prefer,” Chloe said, her tone casual and sincere.
Hearing this, Matthew felt both relieved and a little disappointed. He had overthought it. She was simply being kind.
“In that case, home–cooked food sounds wonderful. I wouldn’t want to trouble you, though,” Matthew responded with a smile.
Chloe laughed softly. “It’s no trouble at all.”
Later, in Chloe’s kitchen, she expertly prepared the meal. Matthew, who wasn’t much of a cook, was amazed by how effortlessly she handled everything. Watching her, he felt as if he were discovering a new side of her.
“Not many people cook like this anymore. You’re really impressive,” Matthew said, genuinely admiring her skills.
Chloe smiled at the compliment. Some people liked cooking, others didn’t. For her, cooking was something she enjoyed. It gave her a sense of calm and control.
