Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

I chuckled. "Brandon, I've made myself clear. Since we have different goals, let's call it off, then."

"But don't you need a boyfriend?" Brandon pressed.

"Yes, I do, but I can't handle a military guy like you. I'll figure something else out."

My response seemed to darken his gaze even more.

I half-expected him to protest or compromise, but he surprised me by saying nothing at all. I had overestimated myself.

"Well, then, I'm sorry for overstepping," I said.

Turning away, I hurried into my car as though eager to escape the scene.

It wasn't until I was sure Brandon couldn't see me that I finally stopped the car. After taking a deep breath, I regretted the reckless impulsiveness of last night's drinks.

I should have asked Derick to pretend to be my boyfriend instead of getting involved with Brandon.

But it was too late for regrets now.

shop, bought a bouquet, and headed to my parents'

occasions like their birthdays and the anniversaries of their passing, I rarely

So,

bouquet by the tombstone. Its wilted petals

passing, and besides Zack and Bree, no one

respects?

going on with Chris now, perhaps Bree had simply

flowers and

at the youthful faces on the tombstone, my heart ached, yet I managed to smile. "Mom, Dad, have you missed me? I've

I couldn't fulfill your and

more than fulfilling the promise you arranged, I think you just

...

their grave, I poured out

had passed when the sun

leaving, I picked up the withered flowers to throw them away. I noticed they weren't lilies.

mourn