Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Hello 390

Chapter 390

Hayden's tone was serious, and for a second, my teasing mood completely evaporated. I looked at him closely-he seemed worn down, probably from dealing with Yuna's recovery and now this drama with me. I softened a bit, pulling him closer. "Steve and I are just friends, that's why I can joke about him. There's literally nothing to worry about."

The second the words left my mouth, I realized they came out wrong. I didn't mean to say there was nothing to hide-it wasn't about hiding anything. I just didn't care because it wasn't that deep. Hayden's face relaxed a little. "I know," he said quietly, "but it still bothers me."

And yeah, I got it. If he were talking about some girl non-stop, I'd probably be annoyed too. Heck, I might've kicked him out of the car by now.

"Sorry, that was wrong of me," I apologized quickly, feeling a little guilty.

Hayden's expression softened, but there was still a glint in his eyes. "Saying sorry isn't enough around here," he said, his tone teasing but with that hint of something more.

T

I caught on right away and leaned in closer, lowering my voice. "I'll make it up to you room."

His Adam's apple bobbed, and his ears went red. Yeah, he definitely got the message.

ater-back in the

playful side kick back in.

you," he shot back without even thinking,

a crowded hotel lobby, and while he might've been all about that grand gesture, I wasn't ready for it. "No, I was just teasing.

could finish, Hayden swept me off my feet-but instead of carrying me, he plopped me right on top of the suitcase and started

out laughing. I'd never been pushed on a suitcase

wished he'd do something silly like push me on a suitcase. But I never asked. It felt too childish. Too silly. Now, with Hayden, I didn't even have to ask. He just did it, making me feel like a carefree kid as he pushed me through the lobby,

elevator, I started to slide off, but Hayden held

be able to

it," I

know if we don't try?" he said, flashing that stubborn side of

but grin back.

else. I laughed, realizing how easily my teasing had thrown him off

+25 BONUS

Chapter 390

as I was enjoying the moment, the elevator doors slid

Jace was standing there.