Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 345

Zack looked at me with gentle eyes. It was the kind of look a father would give his daughter. "To me, you'll always be the kid who never grows up. But I must say, being strong-willed and stubborn may serve you well in your work, but it's not always good for you in life."

I comprehended his perspective, yet individuals were endowed with their own unique tenacity and character. As the adage stated, nature was indeed more powerful than nurture.

"Maddie, being a bit muddled can bring happiness, especially in life. You don't need to have everything figured out, okay?" he advised me like a concerned father.

Seeing his worried look and thinking about his illness, I nodded in agreement, even though I still held onto my principles.

"Maddie," Zack called out to me.

"Yes?"

He shook his head slightly. "It's nothing."

"No, there's definitely something on your mind." I could tell that he wanted to say something but was hesitating.

"Nothing

Conrad, you can tell me. I promise to keep it secret," I said,

the garden earlier, I teased, "Like maybe you've got a woman and a

"What nonsense are you

to one side, feigning a

shook his

they say that birds of a feather flock together? Well, that's what I'm thinking about

eyes widened as if he hadn't expected me to know

it from him. "I played with his

but that doesn't mean I agree

just joking. I know you and Bree have

to tell you that my illness this time is serious.

promise me you'll be brave and strong.

with life, washed over me. My eyes stung, and my throat tightened. I grabbed his arm. "You're going to be fine, nothing's going to happen..." Zack's hand gently stroked my head,