Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 26

"Maddie, I've prepared a very special celebratory dinner for you two. I've even invited friends and family. You must come back by six tonight," Bree said, catching me off guard.

I hadn't expected that she didn't know we hadn't gotten the marriage certificate. It seemed that Chris hadn't told her. Considering their attitude last night; Chris was probably afraid of being scolded. Hearing the joy and anticipation in Bree's voice, I felt reluctant to break the news. But the fact that Chris and I couldn't get the marriage certificate was already a settled matter. It couldn't be hidden for long. Besides, it couldn't be hidden even now. If the friends and family Bree invited all showed up, it would be even more embarrassing for Bree.

"Bree..." I called her.

"Why are you still calling my name? You should be calling me 'mom' now. Is it because I didn't pay you to change my stance?" Bree teased.

My heart, which had been feeling numb, suddenly felt heavy. "Bree, I'm sorry. I... I may never have the right to call you 'mom' any longer."

Truth be told, there were many times that I had wanted to call Bree "mom" over the past ten years. I never thought that this wish would never come true.

"What... What do you mean?" Bree couldn't seem to catch the message.

not comfortable with calling me 'mom?' If so, then don't. You can just

and we never will..."

"What?" Bree was shocked.

What's going

wave of relief wash over me. It was

long time. I began to worry she might not be able to bear

like her daughter. And I knew how much she had hoped for me to become a real member of

looked so happy. She waited

and

voice was

thoughts flashed through my mind. Finally, I said,

competing for a man with another woman. But

other inside and out. You love him, and he cares about you. How

her like this, my heart felt as if it was being crushed.