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

of the flowers in my hand and posted it

my post. I was surprised she had

going on?" Lisa

explaining everything to her, I murmured, "I'm really curious who it could

you really going to Gildon estate? Isn't that like throwing yourself to the wolves?" Lisa's

an option, but going worries me

you, and it might help Chris and the entire Gildon family to move on," Lisa

"He turned me down."

I told Lisa what Brandon had

with him for real? Maybe you'll develop feelings for him, and it could

blankly out the window. "I'm just not in that

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

someone I could easily dismiss. That was the impression

understood me well enough not to push it further. She got worried

come with you? Even if it doesn't change Chris and the Gildons' minds, at least it'll prevent Chris from taking advantage of you." After a few seconds of thought, I said, "I

say yes to Brandon.