Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 43

had been staying here for a few days and hadn't seen Kelly's children come to visit her. I didn't ask about it. But it felt like she had adopted both Brandon and. me as her own children.

One night, Lisa called me and asked when I was coming back. I told her I hadn't decided yet because I was genuinely happy here. I was happier than I had been since my parents left. I was even considering extending my vacation until I got tired of it.

"Are you reluctant to leave Soldier Boy?" Lisa teased me.

I thought about a few but inexplicably heart-fluttering interactions with Brandon. I replied, "Not reluctant. But his presence definitely makes my heart. feel more alive."

"Wow. It looks like our Ms. Crown is quite resilient," Lisa said jokingly.

I didn't respond. Lisa fell silent for a few seconds before asking, "That jerk Chris still hasn't contacted you? Not even a Whatsapp message?"

I licked my lips and said, "No..."

Lisa snorted. "He thinks you'll never leave him."

the moonlight outside, I murmured, "This time,

dark, and the

past few days, I proved it. I ate well

sleep when my phone beeped

eyes and was stunned to see it was from Chris. "Come back once. you're

me

27

me? And he still spoke as if I was causing trouble, completely unaware of his own

turned off my phone. But now I couldn't

the small courtyard. I headed

then, I heard the

suitcase. He seemed surprised to see me at this hour. He paused for a moment, and then continued walking

going?" I blurted

he replied without stopping and left the

there in a daze for a moment before turning and heading toward