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

my hand and posted it on Instagram with the caption: "Whose remembrance could

seeing my post. I was surprised she

on?"

explaining everything to her, I murmured, "I'm

to the wolves?" Lisa's

isn't really an option, but going worries me too," I admitted

you'll have someone to protect you, and it might help Chris and

"He turned me down."

told Lisa

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

just not in that headspace right now, you

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

someone I could easily dismiss. That was the impression I'd gotten from the

well enough not to

doesn't change Chris and the Gildons' minds, at least it'll prevent Chris from taking advantage of you." After a few seconds

and say yes to