Madelyn mused, 'Zach's willingness to go to any lengths to achieve his goals is almost frightening.'

However, a glimmer of optimism surfaced as she considered, "Yet, with Ethan's support... Maybe I can study overseas after high school. It seems like a better plan. I won't have to wait for Ventropolis' annual foreign exchange program."

"Ethan..." Madelyn's uncertainty grew as she grappled with how to broach this topic. Her rapport with Ethan was still developing, and she wasn't sure if she coul