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."

Bran, I wasn't finished talking. Why are you leaving?" Xander called after us, but

car, and I

wrong?" Brandon noticed something was

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

frowned slightly. "Why? Do you

he doesn't seem like it as much as

he added, "Mae, you can't judge a book

look like a domineering CEO from a romance novel, but you're not." "Are you disappointed? Or do you wish I were?" Brandon

"No, don't overthink it. I like men like you. Men

but my mood felt as

Mae, would you feel unsafe?" Brandon

Howell, when did

even afford Ellie's surgery and tried

my hand against the car and slowly

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

the car door as I swallowed nervously.

wanted to try the new

long since faded on his lips. Still, I teased him and

a

hum

to put it on me." Brandon

as my hand moved up to