Madison Came Back Alone
Chapter 14 - Madison Came Back Alone
Six months passed.
Daniel rented a small apartment.
He started therapy.
He also left the investment company his father had founded.
For the first time in his adult life, he chose work without considering whether Thomas would approve.
He became a financial counselor for families facing foreclosure.
The salary was smaller.
Daniel slept better.
Madison moved to Chicago.
She stopped speaking to Victoria for several months.
Then one afternoon, she appeared at Eleanor's cottage.
Alone.
Eleanor invited her inside.
Madison placed a small box on the table.
Inside was the wedding ring.
"I don't know what to do with it."
Eleanor poured tea.
"That seems like something you should discuss with Daniel."
Madison looked nervous.
"Do you hate me?"
Eleanor considered the question.
"No."
"Why?"
"Because hate requires too much maintenance."
Madison laughed through tears.
Then she apologized.
Not for her mother.
For herself.
She admitted she had enjoyed believing the mansion would belong to her and Daniel.
She had imagined parties.
Children running through the halls.
Photographs.
A perfect life.
"I never asked what you wanted."
Eleanor nodded.
"Neither did Daniel."
Madison wiped her eyes.
"I still love him."
"I know."
"Do you think he loves me?"
Eleanor smiled.
"I know that too."
Madison looked at the ring.
"But maybe love isn't enough."
"No," Eleanor said.
"It isn't."
Madison looked crushed.
Then Eleanor continued.
May you like
"But honest love can become enough if two people are willing to grow."
The next morning, Daniel found Madison waiting outside his apartment.
