Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 707 Chapter 707

26 BONUS

Just when I thought he was going to take one of the rings off-maybe to give it back to me. as some kind of answer-he surprised me.

"But they look good on you. Unique, too," he said, letting go of my hand.

I blinked, stunned by his reaction, before a small laugh slipped out.

He still wouldn't admit it.

I understood why he might hide his identity. It was probably for his safety, a way to protect himself. But why couldn't he be honest with me? Did he not trust me? Or was he trying to protect me, too? It didn't really matter. As long as I knew who he was, that was enough.

"If you're free today, come with me to see someone," I said, recalling my promise to Yuna. "You know, I need you to pretend to be Hayden."

He didn't hesitate. "Alright," he agreed easily.

Then he gestured toward my untouched breakfast. "Hurry up and eat."

I smiled faintly, digging in. He'd gone out of his way to make this, and it was exactly how I liked it. Skipping it wasn't an option-especially since I'd barely eaten last night. Drinks didn't count. While I ate, Xander stepped out onto the terrace. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw him standing there, his back to me. He was probably smoking.

all his calm earlier, there was no way he wasn't rattled by

well.

ache, but I busied myself cleaning up after dinner anyway. As I carried the plates into the kitchen,

clean up. Go freshen

and his scent hit me-a combination I hadn't smelled in ages. It was familiar,

I hugged him, burying my

away. "What's

murmured, "You smell good. Really

he finally broke the silence. "Your friend was referred

hapter 718)

his meaning-Demi. Standing so close, I couldn't miss the faint

myself to focus.

"No," he said firmly.

the last time I saw her. "She wouldn't do that willingly," I

something she couldn't say." My gaze

like him to get into

seem especially interested in

man I love-Hayden-was hurt by Wayne, and Wayne and DracoLux