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."

reminded me once more to make sure

a photo of the flowers in my hand and posted it on Instagram with the caption: "Whose remembrance

after seeing my post. I was surprised she had time to check

on?" Lisa

murmured, "I'm really curious who it could

Isn't that like throwing yourself to the wolves?" Lisa's focus

option, but going worries me too," I

to protect you, and it might

"He turned me down."

told Lisa

him for real? Maybe you'll

window. "I'm just not in that

with me, he'd have to be fully committed, and I couldn't just brush him

was the impression I'd

to push it further. She

I come with you? Even if it doesn't change Chris and the Gildons' minds, at least it'll prevent

Hurry and say