Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 686

"Returning the favor."

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Xander's reply was blunt, and I immediately caught the hifit of that earlier misunderstanding he had about me.

"So, you just happened to show up when I was in danger? Should I be suspicious you staged the whole thing?" I shot back, using his own accusation against him.

He didn't flinch, his eyes fixed on the road. "I'm sorry. I was wrong about you."

Wait-what? I froze. He'd figured it out that fast?

"Earlier, I overheard that fat guy on the phone. Today's setup was orchestrated by Wayne Johnston of RiverwaveCorp."

I froze. That guy had clearly mentioned Jace...

"You don't believe me?" He glanced my way briefly. "I recorded it."

Without missing a beat, he handed me his phone. The screen lit up, and I tapped the recording.

[Boss, it's done. Ms. Kay thinks it was Jace Johnston...]

My hand trembled slightly, but it wasn't fear-it was disbelief. Wayne had really gone this far?

It all added up now. Jace refusing to let me go must've pushed Wayne to the edge, desperate enough to pull something like this.

Hayden, to that time Wayne's schemes had nearly taken him out. Back then, it was all about eliminating Hayden, Jace, and Steve in one go. I hadn't fully grasped just how far gone Wayne was

have me, would

like him-so extreme-might

Outwardly, Wayne always played the part of the charming, warm guy. But how had he ended up

been this way, just hiding behind a

me silent the

we finally stopped, Xander spoke

was trying to hit you

Wait, what?

off guard. The memory of the car's blinding headlights came rushing back. Honestly, I'd shoved

scene replayed in my head-the car barreling toward me with clear intent. If it weren't for Xander, I would've

try

1/2

Chapter 696

of anyone I'd crossed recently, at least

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out of my thoughts. He stepped out of the car, circled around, and

weight on my still-healing knee, It buckled.

once I'd steadied myself. Then I glanced at him. "Where are you hurt? What department are

find out,"

sighed and trailed

felt... off, like I was the one who needed help. He didn't

treatment room. She gestured for me to sit down and hold out

your finger. We need