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.

smiled. "Nothing

promise to keep it secret," I said, raising

I teased, "Like maybe you've got a

words. "What nonsense are you spouting?

I cocked my head to one side, feigning a serious expression as

Zack shook

of

if he hadn't expected me to know about Arthur's

him. "I played with his little daughter in the garden downstairs. She's

that doesn't mean I agree with everything he does. I have my own thoughts and

I was just joking. I know you and Bree have a great

staring at the white wall. "Maddie, I want to tell you that my illness this time is serious. I'm not sure if I'll

one day I'm gone, promise me you'll be brave and strong.

of parting with life, washed over me. My eyes stung, and my throat tightened. I grabbed his arm. "You're going to be fine, nothing's