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."

talking. Why are you leaving?" Xander called after us, but

walked to the car, and I

something was off with

Brandon. "Do you think Mr. Stephen, whom

slightly. "Why? Do you think

as much

Then he added, "Mae, you

look like a domineering CEO from a

head. "No, don't overthink it. I like men like you. Men with a clean background, simple and

drunk any alcohol that night, but

money, Mae, would

squinted my eyes. "Mr. Howell, when did you

even afford Ellie's surgery and tried to comfort him. "Safety isn't about money." Then, I withdrew

Brandon pinned my hand against the car and

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

door as I swallowed nervously. "Brandon, what

to try the new type of

my previous kiss and the red lipstick had long since faded on his lips.

gave a

you just hum in reply? What

on me." Brandon brushed

my hand moved