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."

up, Bree reminded me once more to make sure we

flowers in my hand and posted it

I was surprised she had time

on?"

I murmured, "I'm really curious who

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

option, but going worries me too," I admitted my

have someone to protect you, and it might help Chris and the entire Gildon family

"He turned me down."

told Lisa what Brandon had

chuckled. "He's got personality. Why not give it a shot with him for real? Maybe

window. "I'm just

was inexperienced in love. If he wanted a relationship with me, he'd have to

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

well enough not to push it

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

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