Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

I checked my calendar and realized that Zack's birthday was in three days.

It wouldn't be appropriate to bring up this matter on his birthday. I didn't want to dampen his celebration. So, I decided to deliver the gift early to ensure I wouldn't have to go on his actual birthday. However, before I could take action, Conrad came to find me.

I hadn't seen him since we left the amusement park, and I almost didn't recognize him at first glance.

"Have I changed so much that you can't recognize me?" Conrad joked.

Seeing him like this reminded me of Brandon, and I smiled faintly. "If your mom saw you like this, she would definitely be worried."

"No, she said I look more manly now," Conrad said, trying to make me laugh again.

I pressed my lips together. "Indeed, you do look more masculine."

Conrad touched his face. "I think so too."

Despite his efforts to lighten the mood, I still didn't know how to respond after he spoke.

Zack, I asked him, "How have Bree

lot." Conrad's words stung my

after work, and they saw me daily. But

to visit them today," I said and paused

reason to hide it

surprised. It was

moment, he said, "I've already told my Dad about this, and he's adamantly

here today as a messenger for my Dad. Maddie... please come back

couldn't help but smile. "If you fail your mission

my third year living with the Gildon family, Zack had assigned

It was the first time I

explain himself. But when

realized I should have hidden away to spare him

making fun of me?" Conrad smiled, perhaps

I..." I started to

interrupted, "But I'm not here to persuade you today,