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.

follow through on his word. However, I'm terrified of

couldn't ignore the truth about my parents' accident just because of

also

mind started to

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

collapse, so I buried myself

not be that. Brandon

for a long time until my emotions finally

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 soup

recipe and made some improvements," Ellie said

excellent cook, and Ellie wasn't far behind. After all, she had been living on her

out in the cold and going through such emotional

while, Ellie put down her bowl and went outside. Then she called out,

drinking my soup, but I could hear faintly the