Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Hello 418

Chapter 418

Wayne's grip on my hand loosened, his expression softening as the tension drained from his face.

"Do you think even less of me now? His voice was low, almost like he'd given up.

"It's not about looking down on you, Wayne," I said, locking eyes with him. "Back then, I chose Jace because he made my heart race, not because you weren't good enough. But now... after everything? I'm just disappointed." "Do you even know why I did all this?" he asked quietly.

I laughed bitterly. "You were so clear-headed when you left four years ago. How did you end up like this, Wayne? Why are you losing yourself now?"

Back then, when I got together with Jace, whatever path there was with Wayne had closed. Even after Jace and I broke up, Wayne and I were never going to be more than 'siblings."

"You loved Jace for ten expected.

1. s. I've loved you just as long." he confessed, and his words hit harder than I

But sympathy wasn't what I felt-it was just a reminder of old wounds.

Loving someone in silence? I understood that. But I still had to be real with him, no matter how much it hurt.

a future with him. But you? You knew it was hopeless and kept going anyway. That's not

stung, but it

and kept the truth hidden-for his own reasons. That's

the word with a bitter laugh. "Yeah,

tone was mocking, but there was a clear sting behind it-like he was calling me

reminder. "You and Jace

he walked over and grabbed my hand,

and Brad's scheme. He had quietly gotten it for me after I'd voiced my suspicions about Wayne's behavior and Tanya's motives. Hayden had done the rest, investigating behind the scenes and showing up

it, but he always handled the stuff that made my life

while, realizing we hadn't found

Hayden said, his

Yuna was still recovering, and a crowded place wasn't ideal. I

+25 BONUS

judgment.

much further?" I asked,

already?" Hayden teased, catching on

hide

me to carry you?" he