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."

reminded me once more to make sure we celebrated

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

my post. I was surprised she had time to

going on?" Lisa

murmured, "I'm really curious who it

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

going worries me too," I

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

"He turned me down."

Lisa what Brandon had

"He's got personality. Why not give it a shot with him for real? Maybe you'll

"I'm just not in that headspace right

he wanted a relationship with me, he'd have to be

That was the

enough not to push it

it'll prevent Chris from taking advantage of you." After a few

say yes to