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.

earlier, there was no way he wasn't

well.

up after dinner anyway. As

don't have to clean up. Go freshen up," Xander said,

smelled in ages. It was familiar, yet unsettling, flashing memories of him smoking and hiding his true self

I hugged him, burying my face in the

away. "What's wrong?" he

shirt, I murmured,

finally broke the silence.

hapter 718)

couldn't miss the faint mark on his Adam's apple. My bite. Perfectly placed,

myself to focus. "She wasn't

"No," he said firmly.

thought of Demi's words the last time I saw

say." My gaze met his. "I want to see her. Can you

like him to get into

especially interested

man I love-Hayden-was hurt by