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

some to Brandon,

having risotto," Brandon declined and walked

looked at me. "Maddie, why do I feel like Mr. Howell

her a thumbs up. "You're spot

exchange and then said, "Mr. Howell has

before, a bit aloof but not hostile. Today he seems on edge, like he ate a bowl of chili peppers." Kara's mouth

Chapter/b

didn't eat any more of

Brandon to finish.

happy to eat with Brandon, but he told her

back to work.

being stood up. It

amusing.

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

over love. When I'm in love, that person will be my whole world. When the love is gone,

nodded. "Bravo,

and

they hadn't called. Had they accepted that Chris

me, smiling

paused while 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. So they've decided to give you both some time to sort things