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."

poured the milkshakes while chatting. "Mae, where were you? Bran got

said, "I ran into a friend

and said, "You have so many friends. I want to make more friends,

You'll make lots of friends

tasted her milkshake and said, "This is so good! There are so many flavors. I want to try them all. Mae..." "Mae?" Ellie waved her hand in front of my face. "What's wrong? You look like

answer, Ellie called out to the kitchen.

of 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

on his shoulder. "I just went

that upset you?" he

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

of the situation. But with Emma's condition, it seemed like holding

to look after ourselves, too," I said, holding his arm tighter and glancing at Ellie,

and Ellie took it. "Mae, what's

for me, "She's very