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."

milkshakes while chatting. "Mae, where were you? Bran got worried and went looking for

a

a milkshake and said, "You have so many friends. I want to

so friendly. You'll make lots

good! There are so many flavors. I want to try them all.

called out to the kitchen. "Bran, come

kitchen with a bowl of cherries and a plate of strawberries. He looked worried as he set the fruit down and placed his

pulling him to sit beside me. I leaned on him and rested my head on his shoulder.

upset you?"

"Emma's family is giving up on her, and Charles is really upset. It's

on," I thought, feeling the heaviness of the situation. But with Emma's condition, it seemed like holding on might not make a difference. Brandon didn't say anything, but he gently rubbed his cheek against

his arm tighter and glancing at Ellie, who was now watching us and had set

and Ellie took it.

spoke up for me, "She's very