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."

me once more to make sure we celebrated Zack's birthday

took a photo of the flowers in my hand and posted it on Instagram with

after seeing my post. I was surprised

on?"

I murmured, "I'm really curious who it could

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

going

least you'll have someone to protect you, and it might help Chris and the entire Gildon family to move on," Lisa suggested. Then she asked, "Has Brandon

"He turned me down."

I told Lisa

it a shot with him for real? Maybe you'll develop feelings for him,

out the window. "I'm just not in that headspace right now, you

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

dismiss. That was the impression I'd gotten from the

not to push it further.

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

Hurry and say yes