Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

I froze, staring at him in shock.

Brandon's father was the driver. If there were an issue with the brakes, it would be his responsibility.

For a moment, neither of us spoke. We just stood there, looking at each other.

After a while, Brandon's hand on my shoulder moved slightly. "My father was the driver. If the brakes failed, whether it was due to human error or a mechanical issue, he's responsible."

A chill ran through me, not from the weather but from the emotions swirling inside me.

If things between Brandon and I hadn't progressed to this point, it would have been easy for me to hold his father accountable. Now that Brandon was the closest person to me, I had no idea how to handle it if h responsible for the accident.

"Mae, you know I've been investigating my father's death. This is connected. Once I uncover the truth, I'll give you a clear answer," Brandon

said with unwavering sincerity, not once faltering even though it involved his father.

Brandon was straightforward, and he would follow through on his word. However, I'm terrified of

to come to this. Yet, I couldn't ignore the

said he would investigate and that he was also

mind started to spiral

my turmoil, Brandon placed his hand on the back of my neck, gently pressing down. "Mae, don't overthink it. Things might not be as bad as we fear." He

so I buried

let it not be that.

a long time until my emotions finally

she saw us holding hands, she beamed and said, "Mae, I made some mushroom soup. Come and try it!" Brandon looked at me

recipe and made some improvements," Ellie

After all, she had been living on her own, so

took a sip of the soup. It was warm and comforting. After being out in the cold and going through such emotional turmoil, it was exactly what I needed. Brandon also sat down

went outside. Then she called out, "Bran, come help me

soup, but I could hear