Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 98

Bree was visibly taken aback for a moment, then she smiled warmly.

"What are you saying, child? You can't lose faith in men just because of that rascal. While there certainly are bad men out there, there are plenty more good ones," Bree said with a touch of humor. Even in her 50s, she spoke with a modern flair.

I laughed. "There are good men. I'm just not interested for now. I need some time to myself," I said to deter her from adding anything else. Some subjects were better left untouched to avoid awkwardness. "I guess so."

I was relieved at her response, but then she quickly pivoted. "Still, it's best to start looking early. The good ones get snapped up fast."

We both laughed before Bree added a compliment, "With how beautiful and kind you are, whoever ends up with you will be the luckiest man alive."

It made me nervous, but I played along. "It's as you said, only the best can match my worth. Until that man comes along, I'd rather wait."

"Exactly, I agree. Never settle for less, and never... just find anybody to settle with because of a little beartache."

Those words were clearly about Brandon.

I responded directly. "I would never enter into a relationship carelessly. If I ever decide on someone, it would be because they're the best for me."

Bree know that my decisions were based on careful consideration rather than

me, not saying anything more. Having watched me grow up over

good to know," she

my meal quietly. When I was almost done, Bree suddenly asked, "

Chapter 90

looked up at

she explained.

did not end up as

"Mmhm." I acknowledged softly.

think of

there when they moved to Hilcord, and there weren't

seconds before speaking. "My dad always talked about it when he was still alive. He said he

this from Bree. It was the truth and

be shared.

find anything meaningful?" Bree

Brandon was the first thing that came to mind, then

have changed," I replied briefly. I didn't go into the