Chapter 81: Taking the kids to school

Madison asked, "Do you know why Emma and I have such a strong bond?" "Let me guess." Mark pondered for a moment before responding. "Given Emma’s temperament, I'd say it's because other children were bullying you, and she couldn't stand by and watch. She stepped in to protect you, didn't she?" Madison marveled at Mark’s insight as he had accurately described how she and Emma met. "You guessed it right; that's exactly how it happened." Mark smiled knowingly. "I had a hunch. Emma has always struck me as that kind of person." "Had it not been for her, I shudder to think how much longer those children would have bullied me. Ever since Emma came into my life, such incidents have ceased to occur." As Madison recounted her past, Mark felt a surge of sympathy. He lamented inwardly, wondering why such a kind soul had not been treated with the kindness she deserved. Burdened for too long, Madison was in dire need of a confidant. Having shared so much today, she felt a signifi