Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 76

I hadn't washed my hands, and neither had Conrad

I was fine with that, but I could see that Conrad was embarrassed.

"A little dirt won't hurt," I said to ease the awkwardness.

Brandon walked over, holding some wet wipes.

Conrad tried to take them, but Brandon didn't let go. I ended up taking them before handing one to Conrad and using another to wipe my hands.

"Maddie, who's this?" Conrad was curious about the imposing and unfriendly

Brandon.

"This is Brandon Howell. He's the lighting technician," I introduced Brandon.

Brandon's gaze bore into me, prompting me to introduce Conrad as well. "This is my... brother, Conrad."

"Hello," Conrad said, extending his hand to Brandon.

But Brandon nodded, and Kara quickly said, "Mr. Howell has germophobia."

Conrad smiled slightly, withdrew his hand, and looked at me. "Let's sit down and eat. It won't taste good if it gets cold."

licked her lips. "Can I have

offered some to Brandon, saying, "Mr. Howell, please try some

Brandon

paused mid-bite of her food and then looked at me. "Maddie, why do I feel like Mr. Howell is suffering

gave her a thumbs

and then said, "Mr.

before, a bit aloof but not hostile. Today he seems on edge, like he ate a

Chapter/b

risotto and salad, I didn't eat any more of the food we had ordered,

Brandon to finish.

to eat with Brandon, but he told her to eat first while he

back to work.

at being stood up. It was honestly

amusing.

I was worried you might be upset." Conrad's words brought my

asked as I ate. "I'm not one to go crazy over love. When I'm in love, that person will be my whole world. When

nodded. "Bravo, that's my

are Bree and Zack?"

hadn't called. Had they accepted that Chris and

at me, smiling faintly. "What do

Conrad continued, "They still think that you and Chris are! inseparable. They assume that the both of you are