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."

stayed quiet. I could tell she was

face the 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

at your sister-in-law's room?" she

Carline. What do

them up for Ellie," Lisa said. Even though she didn't usually take gifts,

come by," I said, happy

already packed the strawberries, plus some cherries and blueberries. Since Lisa was busy in the operating room, her assistant gave me the fruit. As I struggled with the heavy bags of fruit, a

saw Charles. Before I could say

need help. I can manage," I said, though

but stopped. Then, he asked, "Where are

orthopedic ward on the 12th floor,"

walk you there," Charles said,

Charles for a moment, then asked,

tightened his grip on the fruit. "Still the