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.

calming my nerves, I drove to a flower shop, bought a bouquet, and headed to my parents'

birthdays and the anniversaries of their

been dreaming of my childhood and my parents. So, I wanted to visit them as

noticed a bouquet by the tombstone. Its wilted petals suggested it

passing, and besides Zack and Bree, no one else

come to pay their respects? If they had, why hadn't

with everything going on with Chris now,

the withered flowers and

heart ached, yet I managed to smile. "Mom, Dad, have you missed me?

and I broke up. I'm sorry I couldn't fulfill your and

the promise you arranged, I think you

...

out my

had passed when the sun

I picked up the withered flowers to throw them away.

Bree, Chris, and I came to mourn