Sierra quickly pulled her hand back from Madison's mouth, glancing at Theo with a hint of embarrassment.
"Mr. Gray, you're truly impressive—there's nothing more attractive than a man who helps with housework," Madison complimented, flashing him a big thumbs-up.
Theo briefly pursed his lips before grabbing the warm milk he had prepared earlier. He poured a fresh cup for Sierra and brought it over to her.
"Thank you," Sierra said as she took the cup from him.
The warmth of the milk spread through her hands.
"Mr. Gray, why didn't you pour one for me too?" Madison teased.
"There's more in the kitchen. Feel free to help yourself," Theo responded casually, his voice carrying a hint of distance.
"Now, that's what I call special treatment," Madison teased with a satisfied smile, emphasizing each word.
This was what a man should be like when he genuinely cared—keeping a respectful distance from other women while giving his full attention to the one he valued.
With that, Madison stood and walked toward the kitchen.
Sierra glanced up at Theo, whispering, "Thank you for everything today, Uncle Theo."
"It's no trouble," he replied in his calm, deep voice. "I'll be on my way now."
"Alright." Sierra nodded, her voice gentle as she added, "Uncle Theo, please drive safely."
Theo nodded slightly and leaned in close to Sierra's ear, his voice filled with quiet tenderness. "Don't forget—I'll be waiting for your answer in one week."
A flush of heat spread to Sierra's ears. She tightened her grip on the cup, at a loss for how to respond.
Meanwhile, Madison crouched by the kitchen doorway, sneaking glances with a playful grin.
They were so perfect together.
Sierra gave her a resigned look. "Let me guess—Uncle Theo called you here in the middle of the night?"
Madison shook her head, waving a finger. "Nope, it was Adrian. But I have to admit, Mr. Gray really knows how to keep his distance like a true gentleman. As long as he treats you well, I don't mind what he does—he could block me or even beat me up, and it'd still be worth it!"
"You're being ridiculous."
"Not at all! For you, I'd risk my life if I had to."
Madison hooked her arm around Sierra's, leaning against her affectionately. But as soon as she remembered Theo mentioning her injured foot, she straightened up.
Her gaze shifted to Sierra's feet, her face now filled with concern. "Cee, Mr. Gray said you hurt your foot. What happened?"
Sierra's smile faded slightly as she gave a brief account of what had happened at Gray Manor earlier that day.
The more Madison listened, the angrier she became. "Benson is a complete scumbag! Teaming up with your sorry excuse of a father to force you into marriage? Seriously, what the hell is wrong with him?"
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