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."

knew that all too well. Looking at the moonlight outside, I murmured,

with Lisa. When I woke up again, it was still dark, and the call had ended. Lisa left me a message, "No one in this

I could live without Chris. These past few days, I proved

about to go back to sleep when my phone

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

words made me boil with

27

thought of me? And he still spoke

phone. But

and walked into the small courtyard. I headed

the sound of a

to see Brandon coming out, carrying a backpack and pulling a suitcase. He seemed surprised to see me

are you going?" I

he replied without stopping and left the

a moment before turning and heading toward his room. Surprisingly, the door wasn't