Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 161

Ever since I wasn't obligated to practice calligraphy with Zack, I hadn't picked up a brush on my own in years. Despite being older now, I avoided doing work if could, just like when I was younger.

"Don't worry, just write freely. Express yourself however it comes," Zack encouraged while handing the brush to me once more. How could I refuse now?

The brush felt considerably heavier in my hand now compared to when I had held it in the store. Perhaps it was the ink weighing it down, or maybe it was the weight of Zack's expectations.

He hoped that I was still able to write skilfully and that I still loved Chris as before. That way, I would still be closely related to them.

I started writing. My hand trembled, so the strokes were uneven despite my best efforts. I knew Zack wasn't really interested in the technical aspects of my calligraphy, he just wanted to glean what I was feeling.

"Live in the moment," Zack read what I wrote out loud. Just like him, I also used my words to express my emotions.

He didn't say anything else and just nodded. Then, he looked at me solemnly and said, "Maddie, I wish you nothing but happiness."

He reached out his hand to shake mine, but I surprised him by pulling him into a gentle embrace. "Thank you, Zack," I murmured.

softly. "I'm sorry. You've been mistreated. It's my fault for

apologized when Bree complained. Yet here he was, apologizing to me. Tears welled up in my eyes

mood, he patted

reddened eyes and said, "I'm aware of Chris' foolish actions, and I've already dealt with it. If he mistreats you again, I'lchase him out of the house. He should know

take care of things, but Zack had addressed it before I could bring it

The ten years we had spent together, even though we were not biologically related, had forged a bond as strong as

you, Zack."

me and protecting me, but also for the love and care he had

"Don't do that. It makes me

head. "You and

I'll tell that Brandon to treat you well. If he doesn't,

the gentle and elegant Zack

patted my head again. "Maddie, no matter your decision, I only have one wish, and that's for

be happy."