Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Over the years living in the Gildon estate, I'd come to understand Zack's character and temperament.

He always kept business and personal matters separate. If Chris made a bad decision or made a mistake, Zack would punish him just the same.

Given the latest reports I'd received, it seemed Chris was still aggressively poaching clients from my current company. He was trying to crush us entirely. I couldn't help but say, "It seems Zack's warning didn't work."

Conrad noticed the concern in my voice. "Is Chris still at it?"

"Yes, he's determined to destroy my company completely," I said in a trembling voice.

I couldn't stay calm anymore.

This affected not just my company but also our clients, and it was a heavy burden to bear.

"He's going too far. I'll talk to my dad about this," Conrad said angrily.

"I'll handle it. I have a birthday gift for Zack anyway. I'll see if he likes it," I said, and Conrad's eyes brightened.

"Great! Are you going today? We can go

together. "Yes,

smile remained,

said, and Conrad's smile

and

for me, and Bree had mentioned it too. It was better to let him face the truth now. I had to dispel any false hopes he had and help

"Brandon Howell."

darkened

going to say, but I wouldn't joke about my happiness, nor would I act out of spite," I said, though it pained me to

"But I can't believe you've moved on from Chris

If he knew this,

feelings for me likely

he stayed away for

painfully. I turned away from him and said coldly, "Conrad, you're mistaken. I won't waste time on someone or feelings that aren't worth it." After a pause, I added, "Besides, Brandon is better than

on me, and my

you've only known