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.

I'm terrified of what his answer would be if it turned out

expected things to come to this. Yet, I couldn't ignore the truth about my parents' accident just because of my feelings

he was also looking into

mind started

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

so I buried

be that. Brandon had become my

a long time until my emotions finally

before us. When she saw us holding hands, she beamed and said, "Mae, I made some mushroom soup. Come and try it!" Brandon looked at me first. "You should try it. Ellie's mushroom

my brother's recipe and made some improvements," Ellie

an excellent cook, and Ellie wasn't far behind. After all, she had been living on her own, so taking care of herself was

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 to eat, but neither of us spoke. Only

a while, Ellie put down her bowl and went outside. Then she called out, "Bran, come

hear faintly