Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

They had a peaceful meal because Stephen didn't show even a hint of being a boss.

Brandon only spoke occasionally to serve me food or ask if I wanted water. He acted so aloof, and it was as if he were the boss.

After the meal, Stephen quietly left in a low-profile Maybach.

Xander, having had some drinks, called for a designated driver.

While waiting for the driver, Xander draped his arm over Brandon's shoulder and asked, "Bran, how was it? Are you satisfied with today's meeting?"

Brandon shrugged off his hand. "You've had too much to drink."

"Not that much. I know you're worried I'll say something I shouldn't, but don't worry, I'm in control." Xander raised his hand again to pat Brandon on the shoulder.

This time, Brandon grabbed his wrist. "Mr. Roulder, I don't like people patting me on the shoulder. It's best if you avoid doing it to others too. There's a saying in mysticism that everyone's shoulders carry their fortune. A pat like that might just knock someone's good luck away. Got it?"

I almost laughed. I didn't expect Brandon to care about such things.

Xander was taken aback but then laughed. "Bran, when did you become such a nag? I remember you used to..."

"Your ride's here," Brandon cut him off just as the driver arrived.

Before the driver could ask anything, Brandon spoke up. "It's his car. He called you."

Then, Brandon put his arm around my shoulders. "Let's go."

are you leaving?" Xander called

to the car, and I remained silent the entire

wrong?" Brandon noticed something

Brandon. "Do you think Mr. Stephen, whom we met today, seems like

frowned slightly. "Why? Do you think

seem like it as much

Brandon replied. Then he added, "Mae, you can't judge a book by its

to caress his face. "Yeah. You look like a domineering CEO from a

like you.

any alcohol that night, but my mood felt as if I

day I had money, Mae, would you feel unsafe?" Brandon asked

"Mr. Howell, when did you

answer. I remembered how he couldn't even afford Ellie's surgery and tried to comfort him. "Safety

my hand against the car

that night. The faint odor of alcohol on his breath, mixed with the night air and

car door as I swallowed nervously. "Brandon, what are you

I knew he wanted to try the new type of kiss I'd taught

kiss and the red lipstick had long since faded on his lips. Still, I teased him and said, "Brandon, you

gave a hum in

"Why do you just hum in

put it on me."

asked as my hand moved up