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."

quiet. I could tell she

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 mood. Just then, Lisa

still at your

Dr. Carline. What do you need?" I

up for Ellie," Lisa

by," I said,

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

saw Charles. Before I could say anything,

can manage," I

stopped. Then, he asked, "Where

ward on

there," Charles said, and he started

followed Charles for a moment,

his grip on the