Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 533

Jace looked wrecked-pale, hair a mess, rough stubble shadowing his jaw. I'd never seen him this messed up, like he'd had a night just as brutal as mine.

He must've found out about Matthew. Why else would he keep blowing up my phone?

Weirdly, I didn't feel the anger I'd expected. Instead, I felt... nothing. Like something in me had finally just burnt out. Maybe I was numb.

The doorway wasn't the place for this. I said, "Come in."

Jace walked in and dropped onto the couch across from me. "My mom told me everything... Rea, I'm so

sorry...

I didn't answer. I knew he hadn't just come here to apologize.

"Look, I know sorry's not enough. But I came here to ask... no, to beg... His voice cracked as he looked at me, his face full of something raw. "Please, just... can you spare my dad? Just for whatever time he has left?" Beg? Hearing that word from Jace was rare.

his recklessness, he'd always been fiercely loyal

he owes

could never repay. But please, let him go. Let me pay back that debt instead."

debt. The words hit me, reminding me of all the times I'd given my blood to him. Like maybe he

Jace droppe

do whatever you ask." But that was the problem-I didn't know what I wanted

looked at me, defeated. "Rea, I know... no matter what we do,

my parents-real, living people. All I have now is a cold gravestone to call Mom and Dad.""

fought to keep it together. "Jace, do you

my own arm. "I hate that I have the same blood

the color draining out like he'd taken a

should hate the most." I spat the words, every memory of

my happiness, my reason to get up

irony

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