Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 21

Chapter 721

Tears were still running down Demi's cheeks when the suddenly rented, "Hoses, the starving Grab me risotto,"

"On it," I said quickly, "Want some meat, too?"

She used to be all about meat-then complain about dieting right der

"Meat helps you heal, right? Why not?" she replied with a playful grin, Ne the old Demi was still in there somewhere.

Her smile hit me harder than her tears. How could she act so normal when I knew the wasn't okay? I forced a grin. "Alright. Pork belly sound good?

"Make sure it's marbled, not all lean or fat," she quipped, her usual picky self.

"Got it. Only the best for you," I promised, standing up.

But instead of leaving, I hovered outside her door, leaning against the frame. A moment later, the sound of her quiet sobs slipped through.

I pressed my back to the wall, eyes shut, my chest tightening like I couldn't breathe. After a second to pull myself together, I headed out to grab her food. That's when I ran into Jace.

the image of him coughing up blood-crimson dripping

spotted me too, but neither

me, close enough for our shoulders to brush. No glance, no acknowledgment. Like

four of them as a couple, that's

we were now. Just two people, no strings

risotto, slow-roasted pork belly, and a salad," I told the cashier, rattling off

couldn't eat much, I got her extra-just in case. A dessert,

bag in hand, I left the restaurant. But

car.

ignored me earlier, but now he was clearly waiting. I didn't say anything, just stared. "What are you doing here? Not feeling well?"

was a hospital cafeteria,

- 75 BONUS

up Demi, and Hayden was off-limits, so I lied, "I'm here

the takeout bag. "You're still lying

hesitated, then shrugged. "Fine. It's for Xander. He's

him-Jace was bound to find out sooner

face shifted, but barely. The last time he'd heard Xander's voice-or Hayden's,

up coughing blood. I bet part of him thought he'd have a

back? It messed