Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 30

"Kid." The voice on the other end was rich and resonant. It sounded familiar yet

strange.

A familiar face flashed before my eyes, and I called out, "Conrad..."

I had thought that changing my number would allow me to avoid the Gildons. But I hadn't expected Conrad to know this brother, let alone contact me.

"I see you've saved my number and haven't forgotten me," Conrad said with a hint of teasing.

He was only two years older than Chris and looked after me before he went abroad. He always liked to call me "kid".

I was at a loss for words. To me, his words carried a tinge of resentment.

In the first two years after he left, I occasionally contacted him to ask about his situation. Later, we gradually lost touch.

9

family, let alone me. Now,

Butthey still informed each other of important

didn't like

from me once to pay for the

number for ten years

relic. One day, I discovered it was out of service and wanted to top up the balance. But I had no money and

worried I'd use the money for something bad. When he asked me what it was for, I told him but he didn't believe

pay for

to repay him for the bill. So now, facing his call, I jokingly asked, "Are you calling me

"Yes." He admitted.

with it. "I'll transfer

"Maddie..." Conrad interrupted.

my phone tightly but didn't speak. Neither

"My parents are worried about you. They're very anxious because they

this severe. Guilt and concern

and continued, "Maddie, did Chris do

had to answer this question again. I