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

Now, his sudden call must be related to the

his family. Butthey

number?" I didn't like

money from me once to pay for

me marvel at his intellect. He had remembered this number for ten

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

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 me. So, he went with

helped to pay for the phone bill and even

repay him for the bill. So now, facing his

"Yes." He admitted.

along with it. "I'll

"Maddie..." Conrad interrupted.

phone tightly but didn't speak. Neither did

are worried about you. They're very anxious because they can't find you. My mom... fainted from the

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

paused and continued, "Maddie, did Chris

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