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 be related to the canceled marriage between

rarely communicated with his family. Butthey still informed each

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

money from me once to pay for the

number for ten years simply

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,

what it was for, I

helped to pay for the

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

"Yes." He admitted.

with

"Maddie..." Conrad interrupted.

phone tightly but didn't speak. Neither did Conrad

They're very anxious because they can't find you. My mom... fainted

it'd be this severe. Guilt and concern constricted my breath. "Is Bree alright?" "She's fine. She just has high blood pressure

paused and continued, "Maddie, did

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