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.

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type. He seldom contacted his family, let alone me. Now, his sudden call must be

Butthey still informed

get this number?" I didn't like beating around the bush and

me once to pay for the phone

number for ten years simply because he paid for

parents' accident, my dad's phone became a relic. One day, I discovered it was out of service and wanted to top up the balance. But I had no money and was too embarrassed to ask Chris' parents. So, I borrowed

was for, I told him but he didn't

to pay for

the bill. So now, facing his call,

"Yes." He admitted.

he wasn't, but I went along with it. "I'll transfer the money to you

"Maddie..." Conrad interrupted.

didn't speak. Neither did Conrad

about you. They're very anxious because

for a second. I had anticipated his parents to worry but didn't think it'd be this severe. Guilt and concern constricted my

and continued, "Maddie, did Chris do

I guessed that everyone who