Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Hello 422

Chapter 422

Jace's face froze, his eyes locking onto mine like he couldn't believe what he was seeing. Then, his gaze dropped to my hand, still laced with Hayden's

No one said a word for a few awkward seconds. Finally, Hayden cleared his throat. "Mr. Johnston, morning."

Morning? The sun wasn't even up yet.

That seemed to snap Jace out of his trance. His jaw clenched, and he looked straight at me. "Rea, I need to talk to you."

I could've said no, but I didn't. Some conversations had to happen, even if they sucked.

"Hayden, go on upstairs. I'm in the mood for some milk," I said, super casual, like I was asking my husband to pick up groceries or something.

He gave a small nod, adjusting the coat around my shoulders. "It's cold this morning."

He stepped into the elevator, leaving me alone with Jace, who just stared at the floor numbers like he was trying to burn a hole through them. When the doors finally shut, Jace turned back to me. "When did you buy the apartment?"

I used to think he bought the one above mine on purpose, just to mess with me. But from the look on his face, I realized I might've been wrong.

did," I replied, watching his expression shift. Something dark flickered in his

"Tanya didn't tell you to

but

flaunt her thing with Jace in my face or

out the game before

to talk?" I asked. "You gonna

eyes flickered again. "Let's

started walking, slow enough that I could follow easily, like he was afraid I

in over a day," he said softly when we stepped out

he meant. He wanted

already ate."

his face, followed by a quiet, "You won't even eat with me

It wasn't about the meal, but I didn't want him thinking I still cared,

the flowerbeds, I suggested, heading for the small garden nearby. No way was

car.

+25 BONU

jacket was draped over my shoulders. It was still warm

collar around me. "You're not gonna reject this too, are