Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

"The milkshakes are here," Brandon said as he entered, holding some fruits.

He didn't ask any questions, but I could tell that he knew something was wrong.

I was too upset to explain, so I just followed him into the room.

Ellie's face brightened when she saw me. "Mae, the milkshakes are here! I've been waiting for you to try them."

Brandon went straight to the kitchen with the fruits, and I watched him for a moment before going over to Ellie.

"Mae, I've got everything ready. I was just waiting for you to help with the milkshakes," Ellie said, putting several cups on the table.

I wasn't in the mood for milkshakes. "You don't have to share them. You can have them all to yourself."

"Really?" Ellie's eyes sparkled. "But I don't have that big of a belly."

where were you? Bran got worried and went looking for you

ran into a friend on my way

handed me a milkshake and said, "You have so many friends. I

so friendly. You'll make

milkshake and said, "This is so good! There are so many flavors. I want to try them all. Mae..."

answer, Ellie called out to the

the kitchen with a bowl of cherries and a plate of strawberries. He looked worried as he set the fruit down and placed his cool hand on my forehead. His

okay," I said, taking his hand and pulling him to sit beside me. I leaned on him and rested my head on his shoulder. "I

something happen that upset you?"

is giving up on her, and Charles is

condition, it seemed like holding on might not make a difference. Brandon didn't say anything, but he

ourselves, too," I said, holding his arm tighter and glancing at Ellie, who was now watching us and had

and Ellie took it. "Mae, what's

"She's very