Ana's POV
Madeline refused to let me take her home, point blank.
She acted like a cornered wildcat protecting her den, bristling at any attempt to breach her boundaries.
Left with no choice, I offered, "I won't step inside. Just let me walk you to your door. Once I see you're safe, I'll go. Deal?"
"Absolutely not!" Madeline burst out, yanking her hand from mine and enunciating each word with fierce determination.
"I can manage on my own!" she declared.
I couldn't possibly abandon her in this state.
What if nobody was home to look after her?
"Is someone waiting for you?" I asked.
Madeline considered my question. After what felt like forever, she gave a small nod. "My aunt takes care of me."
"Can I have her number? I need confirmation you made it home safely. Otherwise, I'm definitely bringing you back with me," I said firmly.
"No!" she shouted once more.
She fumbled with her phone, scrolling endlessly before locating her aunt's contact. "There."
