Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

11

Chapter 701

Chaptér 701

Wayne's patience had been tested plenty over the past decade, but that didn't mean I didn't enjoy messing with him now and then.

"Sorry, Wayne. Got held up with something," I said, plastering on a half-apologetic smile as I sat down.

"No worries. As long as you're here, I don't mind waiting."

His overly sweet tone was borderline cringe-worthy. I ducked my head, pretending to rearrange the utensils so I wouldn't have to meet his gaze.

Wayne waved a waiter over, motioning for me to order first. But honestly, I was still stuffed from the saucy braised meatballs I'd devoured earlier. Not wanting to seem rude, though, I picked a couple of random dishes off the menu. When the food arrived, it wasn't just what I'd ordered. Wayne had taken it upon himself to add a bunch of extra dishes to the table.

"We're just here for a simple meal, to eat and be full. Ordering this much is a bit much," I said, gesturing at the spread. "We're probably wasting food."

what I know you like," he replied, his tone easy. "Just try a little of everything. Whatever's left,

since he'd already gone overboard, arguing was pointless. I decided to

some red wine?" Wayne

act, even claiming total memory loss afterward. Facing Wayne's expectant gaze-his eyes sharp with curiosity-I forced a

waiter to pour us

didn't have much to talk about, but Wayne came prepared. He steered the conversation toward childhood memories, even bringing up how Jace and I used to ignore him back

I couldn't help but wonder-was it just

Jace lately?"

he saw me, he'd probably go out of his way

+25 BONUS

Chapter 701

put on an awkward expression. "In the end, this is all because of

for not cherishing you. If anyone's to blame, it's me..." His gaze was filled with affection. "It's my fault for not controlling my feelings." Back when I was clueless about his feelings, his looks didn't faze me. But now, every time he stared at me like that, it sent

at me like that. Even Cole had given me similar glances. But somehow, Wayne's gaze made me