Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 299

I said frankly, "Chris is an adult now, Conrad. He's responsible for his own choices."

If Zack threw Chris out of the house or disowned him, was because of the latter's own doing.

Conrad countered, "I know, but I can't stand seeing the wedge driven between him and Dad. Besides, if her left the company, the business would suffer."

My lips tightened. "Not entirely. You're still around to hold the fort."

Surprise flickered in his eyes. "Maddie, I never wanted to run the company. I wouldn't have left if I did."

His desire, or the lack thereof, to run the company was a secret only he knew. However, I did not remark

on this

After a beat, I said, "I'm sure your father has plans for the company. He wouldn't have kicked Zack out so readily if he didn't think the company could survive without him."

even threw in a kerel of wisdom. "The world moves on no matter

and he sputtered bitterly, "I suppose I haven't thought of things on such a grand

your wits' end," I allowed in

matter.

with an assessing stare. "You're different from four years ago,

Four years ago?

would have outgrown his juvenile traits in four years. I

"Yes.

and Chris took to calling me 'Little Maddie. They meant to tease me, but I could sense their affec It had been so long since either of them had

softening after

grimly.

sure you're alright? You can tell me if you need anything.

on the other side. He was bringing in the takeout and didn't seem surprised to see Conrad. He even offered the latter a nod of greeting. Conrad rose to

answer when Brandon did so on my behalf. "She's about to eat." He was as good as chasing Conrad out of the

already looked stoic to begin with. When he spoke,