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."

her lips. "Can

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

risotto," Brandon declined and walked

her food and then looked at me. "Maddie, why do I feel like Mr. Howell is suffering from premenstrual

thumbs

and then said, "Mr. Howell has quite a

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

Chapter/b

we ordered arrived. After eating the risotto and salad, I didn't eat any more

Brandon to finish.

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

back to work.

see Kara's disappointment at being stood up. It was honestly

amusing.

worried you might be upset." Conrad's

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

"Bravo,

and Zack?" I probed

they hadn't called. Had they accepted that Chris and I were

me, smiling faintly. "What do you

eating. Conrad continued, "They still think that you and Chris are! inseparable. They assume that the both of you are just upset with each other. for now.