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

let alone me. Now, his sudden call must be related

Butthey still informed each other

did you get this number?" I didn't like

me once to pay

marvel at his intellect. He had remembered this number for

of service and wanted to top up the balance. But I had no money and was too embarrassed

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

the end, Conrad helped to pay for the

facing his call, I

"Yes." He admitted.

with

"Maddie..." Conrad interrupted.

my phone tightly but didn't

voice sounded again. "My parents are worried about you. They're very anxious because they can't find you. My mom... fainted from

severe. Guilt and concern constricted

paused and continued, "Maddie, did Chris

this question again. I guessed that everyone who knew about our situation