Chapter 345

Madison

My phone buzzed with a text. Reflexively, my heart jumped. Alexander? But it was just Jackson.

Jackson: Thanks again for dinner. Next time, my treat for real.

I smiled and typed back.

Me: Deal. And thanks for being understanding about my work schedule.

Jackson: What are friends for? Besides, I’m just as bad. We can be workaholics together.

The idea was oddly comforting. Maybe that was what I needed. Someone who understood my dedication to work without judging it. Someone who wasn’t paying my mother’s medical bills or making my heart race with a single glance.

Me: Goodnight, Jackson

Jackson: Goodnight, Madison. Don’t stay up all night with spreadsheets.

I laughed out loud, earning a curious glance from the cab driver in the rearview mirror.

The apartment was quiet; Mom must have already gone to bed.

I kicked off my shoes by the door an