Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Thinking that my parents' car accident had happened over a decade ago, I let out a mocking laugh. "Is this necessary?"

"In case anything comes up, it'll be easier to contact you," he replied. His response was unexpected.

What could possibly come up after all this time? Still, I left my phone number as he had requested and then left.

With the death confirmation certificate in hand, I still needed the cremation certificate. I could only turn to Zack, but he was still ill, so I had to go to Bree instead.

"Maddie, what brings you here?" Bree was more surprised than pleased to see me.

"Bree, I have something to discuss. Let's talk inside," I said. I didn't know if it was from running around so much lately because of Ellie or my period, but I felt weak and a bit dizzy today. "Oh, sure. Let's sit over in the gazebo; it's stuffy inside," Bree said while linking her arm with mine.

I went along without thinking much of it. She had already called the housekeeper. "Xena, bring some fruit and the oatmeal I just made over to the gazebo."

Xena acknowledged, and Bree turned to me. "Maddie, you don't look well. Are you sick?"

"It's my period." I used that as an excuse.

you up nicely. I'll ask

said as she stood up. "Maddie, sit

here today for a casual chat, so I stood up as well. "Bree, I have something to take

of my bag. "Bree, I need to close my parents' records, but I

Bree's eyes, followed by a look of sympathy. "Why do you need

off on it once I've completed all these procedures." Bree didn't say anything. After a moment, she hugged me and said, "Maybe

me for a while before letting go. "The document is in Zack's drawer. I'll go get it for you. Wait here for me." Bree patted my head and

and grab the document before leaving immediately.

housekeeper came in with some fruit and oatmeal. Bree instructed her, "Add a few more spoonfuls of brown sugar to the porridge. It will make it taste better. Maddie's not feeling well because of her period." The housekeeper nodded

will be upset. She treats you like her own

scolded by Bree,

2/2

with the brown sugar, added it to the oatmeal,

sugar tasted great. I had plenty of