Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

I didn't have any big problems with Brandon, just felt a bit uncomfortable about his secrets. But I couldn't tell Ellie about that. Her heart was delicate, and she was quick to worry. "No, everything's fine," I said with a smile. "You see how things are between Brandon and me."

Her eyes were so clear and bright that I almost felt like I would dirty them just by looking.

I put my hand up to gently cover her eyes. "Really, there's nothing wrong. If you're still worried, you can talk to Brandon when you get back."

"Mae," Ellie said, hugging my arm and resting her head on my shoulder, "if Bran ever does something wrong, just scold him or give him a hard time. But don't leave him." She spoke like she was pleading. I nudged her gently with my head. "Okay, I won't."

Ellie nodded and said, "Mae, I'll always support you."

Her worry was surprising. I didn't realize how much I meant to her until now. It was the first time I felt so important to someone.

"Mae," Ellie said suddenly, "if something bad happens to me, and you leave Bran too, he'll be really sad."

"Don't say that," I reassured her. "Nothing's going to happen to you."

I could tell she

possibility of death-Ellie and Zack included. Yet, fate was merciless, placing obstacles in their path that they had no choice but to confront. I talked about the concert to change the subject from Ellie's sad

you still at your sister-in-law's

do you need?"

someone. Come pick them up for Ellie," Lisa said. Even though she

I said, happy for an

blueberries. Since Lisa was busy in the operating room, her assistant gave me the fruit. As I struggled

could say anything, he took the bags from

can manage," I said, though it

something but stopped. Then, he asked, "Where are you

on the 12th

I'll walk you there," Charles

moment, then asked, "How's your mentor

grip on the