Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

"Really? But who could it be? Your parents have been gone for years, and their old friends have moved on completely.

"They've never even mentioned their names. Why would anyone go and pay respects?" Bree asked.

Bree's words struck a nerve.

The notion that 'people move on' hit hard. I hadn't noticed their absence in conversation before, but Bree's blunt reminder left me unsettled.

"Maybe someone made a mistake, Maddie?" Bree suggested again, surprisingly.

I glanced at the tombstone with its photo and name. How could anyone make such a mistake? Her words sounded like something you'd say to a child. "Maybe," I agreed with Bree to stop her from pressing on.

I was certain it wasn't from the Gildon family, nor could it be Mom and Dad's old friends.

There was something suspicious about this bouquet, and I needed to investigate.

"Maddie, don't overthink it. I'll ask Zack later if any of his old friends might have done this," Bree reassured me.

"Okay."

more to make sure

hand and posted it on

post. I was surprised she had time to check social

on?" Lisa

to her, I murmured, "I'm really curious

to the wolves?" Lisa's focus shifted away from the flowers

option, but going worries me

someone to protect you, and it might help Chris and the entire Gildon family to move on," Lisa suggested. Then she

"He turned me down."

Lisa

personality. Why not give it a shot with him for real? Maybe you'll develop feelings for

just not in that headspace right now,

with me, he'd have to be fully committed,

wasn't someone I could easily dismiss. That was the impression I'd gotten from

me well enough not to push it further. She

at least it'll prevent Chris from taking

say yes