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."

threw in a kerel of wisdom. "The world moves on

at first, and he sputtered bitterly, "I suppose I haven't thought of things on

I allowed in solace, hoping he

matter.

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

Four years ago?

in four years. I smiled and said wryly, "I suppose

and gave me an unreadable look. "Yes. Our Little

moved in with the Gildons following my parents' death, Conrad and Chris took to calling me 'Little Maddie.

out, Conrad," I advised gently, my tone softening after hearing

nodded grimly.

then appraised my face and asked, "Are you sure you're alright? You can tell me if

bringing in the takeout and didn't seem surprised to see Conrad. He even offered the latter a nod of greeting. Conrad rose to his feet. "Haven't

about to answer when Brandon did so on my behalf. "She's about to eat." He was

of few words, and he already looked stoic to begin with. When he spoke, he did not mince words,