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."

well. Looking at the moonlight outside, I murmured, "This time, I'll show

and the call had ended. Lisa left me a message, "No one

These past few days,

to go back to sleep when my phone beeped with a.message. Who could be messaging me in the middle

to see it was from Chris. "Come back once.

made me boil

27

was only now that he thought of me? And he still spoke as if I was causing trouble,

off my phone. But now I

the door, and walked into the small courtyard. I

I heard the sound of

around to see Brandon coming out, carrying a backpack and pulling a suitcase. He seemed surprised to see me at this hour. He paused for a moment, and then continued walking without

going?" I

of town," he replied

a daze for a moment before turning and heading toward his room.