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."

hanging up, Bree reminded me once more to make sure we celebrated Zack's

photo of the flowers in my hand and posted

surprised she had time to check

going on?" Lisa

to her, I murmured,

Isn't that like throwing yourself to the wolves?" Lisa's focus shifted away from the flowers as she

an option, but going worries me too," I

accompany you. Even if something goes wrong, at least you'll have someone to protect you, and it might help Chris and the entire Gildon

"He turned me down."

I told Lisa what Brandon

not give it a shot with him for real? Maybe you'll develop feelings for him, and it

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

inexperienced in love. If he wanted a relationship with me, he'd have to be fully committed, and

easily dismiss. That was the

me well enough not to push it further. She

if it doesn't change Chris and the Gildons' minds, at least it'll

say yes to Brandon.