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

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

his family. Butthey

I didn't like beating around the

once to

number for ten years simply because he paid for the

of service and wanted to top up the balance. But I had no money and was too embarrassed to ask Chris' parents. So, I

asked me what it was for, I told him but he didn't believe me. So, he went with

for the phone bill and even

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

"Yes." He admitted.

I went along with it. "I'll transfer

"Maddie..." Conrad interrupted.

tightly but didn't

his voice sounded again. "My parents are worried about you. They're very anxious

didn't think it'd be this severe. Guilt and concern constricted my breath. "Is Bree alright?" "She's fine. She just has high blood pressure from the

"Maddie, did Chris do

I had to answer this question again. I guessed that everyone who