Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 537

Lindey nodded, letting go of my hand. "I'll call and check on him."

While she dialed, I offered a silent prayer, hoping everyone could finally find some peace.

Her voice drifted through my thoughts. "... Wayne, don't lie to me. Is he really okay?... Alright, I'm coming back. Tell him I was at Cloudscape Monastery, and I saw Rea."

She looked back at me as she spoke. "She's... she's doing well. She's fine. Tell Jace that Rea has forgiven. our family.... Yes, I understand..."

I lowered my head, feeling a wave of closure wash over me, finally letting go.

After Lindey left, I stayed, listening to Abbot Levinsky's chanting as dusk settled over the mountain. Only then did I finally start down the path.

Lena picked me up, grinning as she held out a bunch of sunflowers. "Congrats on your fresh start."

She got it-she knew this trip had helped me let go of all the anger and resentment I'd been carrying. I'd finally freed myself.

I hugged her, and later, we headed over to Mr. Seth's pub for a drink. We didn't go crazy, but we stayed long after everyone else had left, just soaking in the quiet. Eventually, we called Mr. Seth over, and the three of us shared another round. "Mr.

an arm around my shoulders. That way, when we're old ladies

have any teeth

a point-he was a whole generation older than

fell silent for a moment, until Mr. Seth raised his glass, clinking it

really

made me think of his late daughter. It seemed he'd found his own

with purpose," I said, lifting

my past resentment finally behind me, I felt like a new person. I'd come to terms with everything- the messy history

work-hard to avoid,

joke about his love life, and I'd jump right in without a second thought. I even went with Ron to this joint cocktail party for the Hart and Johnston families, like it was just

debut as the Hart family's heir, and, of course, he looked insane. Custom suit, that sharp, cool expression-the kind that pulled

Ron sighed. "Ms. Kay,

a total catch, right? Letting him go might be your biggest

Ron had tried to play matchmaker. It's

+25 BONUS

Chapter 537