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."

were you? Bran got worried

a friend on

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

replied, "You're so friendly. You'll make lots of

"This is so good! There are so many flavors. I want to try them all. Mae..." "Mae?"

I could answer, Ellie called out to the kitchen. "Bran, come and check on

of strawberries. He looked worried as he set the fruit down and placed his cool hand on my forehead.

beside me. I leaned on him and rested my head on his shoulder. "I just went to see Emma Finnegan, Charles's mentor." Brandon knew about Emma from before, so he understood

that upset

could tell he was concerned. "Emma's family is giving up on

seemed like holding on might not make a difference. Brandon didn't say anything, but he gently rubbed his cheek

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

my other hand, and Ellie took it. "Mae, what's

very ill and in a persistent