Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 636

Yara's question hit me sideways. I hadn't dared let my mind go there.

I hadn't dared to entertain such a thought,

I mean, I saw him collapse, heard the doctor say the surgery didn't work, and yeah, I even held his ashes. That's as final as it gets.

Sure, I've dreamed about him coming back. But those were just desperate little fantasies.

Life isn't some cheesy movie. Hayden died. End of story. No rewrites, no miracles. I hated it, but the truth didn't care about my feelings.

"I wish he wasn't," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.

"Then why are you here, grilling me if you've already made peace with it?" Yara shot back.

I studied her for a moment. "Because something feels off," I said finally.

Her eyes narrowed. "What exactly feels off?"

way too calm. Not even a little wrecked-that's what feels off." Yara didn't even blink. "Who says I'm not devastated?" she replied flatly. "But being heartbroken

myself the same thing a hundred times just to keep

bothering you?" she

the words stuck in my throat. It was all just a hunch-nothing I

her bag

"What

a look," she said, nodding

the paper, I stared at the words contusion twisting into

broke the silence. "The ring was ready months ago. The jeweler tried calling Hayden, but when he didn't pick

Why are you showing me this now? Trying to mess

you. I was just there to keep people from asking questions. If you don't believe me, check the

me when you

just the thought of it

made it for you. And

down at the paper

flicked to my wrist. "Nice

comment, but Yara laughed anyway. "That red string you've tied