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 celebrated Zack's birthday

the flowers in my hand and posted it on Instagram

surprised she had time to check social media

going on?"

her, I murmured, "I'm really curious who

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

an option, but going worries

have someone to protect you, and it might help

"He turned me down."

I told Lisa what

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

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

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

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

me well enough not to

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

and say yes to