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.

he would follow through on his word. However, I'm

Yet, I couldn't ignore the truth about my

and that he was also looking into Arthur. However,

started

the back of my neck, gently pressing down. "Mae, don't overthink it. Things might not be as bad as

even more, feeling like I was about to collapse, so I buried myself in his embrace. I didn't speak, but

that. Brandon

a long time until my emotions finally

"Mae, I made some mushroom soup. Come and try it!" Brandon looked

my brother's recipe and made some

wasn't far behind. After all, she had been living

down and 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

her bowl and went outside. Then she called out, "Bran, come help me with

but I could hear faintly the hushed conversation between the