Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 305

I did tell Brandon that, but what did a personal matter have to do with a business trip?

As if sensing my confusion, Brandon clarified, "I told Mr. Roulder."

"Oh," I said.

I didn't think there was anything odd about this until I had eaten a few mouthfuls of pancakes.

"Wait, when did you and Mr. Roulder, get so friendly? You're telling me he agreed to let me take time off just because you asked, after which he came and politely informed me about a business trip?" Brandon slowly chewed his food and swallowed. "We're not that friendly."

I sputtered. "Could have fooled me. Why do I feel like he owes you a favor or something?"

If I didn't know better, I would think Xander was intimidated by Brandon, for he could never say no to the latter.

"Something like that," Brandon replied. "He needs me to develop new products for the company and fatten up his purse, which is why he's so eager to please me."

thought but did not say aloud. I supposed Brandon's arrogance was warranted,

vital role in the company. It wasn't so much arrogance as it was confidence

postpone the date of signing," he said, ever

rushing me." "As a gentleman, it's my job to dote on you and allow you all the tim

and quickly packed my things, though I groused, "You could have given me a heads-up last night, you know.

exactly give me a

skittering through my mind. My face

as he watched me pack in a flurry, remarking calmly, "Take your time packing. If you leave anything

me that earlier, I would have

and instead pointed out, "I like

gaped at him, he added with a shrug, "I get

prosaic day-to-day of running a household and that makeup, clothes, and the ability to flirt were just bonuses.

I received my boarding pass that I was certain this business trip was happening, even as

we're going to pick her up?" I asked, thinking about Ellie in her long, teal

"I didn't tell her.'

she might get too worked up and