Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

The moment my fingers brushed the fabric of the coat, I knew it was expensive. She handed it over so casually, and a wave of emotion hit me-gratitude tangled with guilt. I had come here with a calculated purpose, yet she responded with nothing but kindness and concern.

"Ma'am, this coat is far too valuable. I can't take it," I said.

"It's just a coat. There's no such thing as 'too valuable," she replied, her voice calm and steady, her easy dismissal of material things only deepening my guilt over my intentions.

But I couldn't back out. If I didn't follow through, Hayden's life-and mine-could be at risk.

I stood frozen, unable to move or speak, just staring at her.

"Is something wrong?" she asked, noticing the shift in my mood.

Pressing my lips together, I finally introduced myself. "Mrs. Drago, my name is Keira Kay."

She nodded slightly. "I know."

Her response surprised me. Before I could ask how, she explained, "I've seen your photo before."

That only added to my confusion. She sat on the edge of the bed and continued, "Some time ago, my son expressed interest in pursuing you. Naturally, I looked into you. But the moment I saw your photo, I knew he didn't stand a chance." So that was how she knew.

Her kind, approachable expression made it easier to breathe. I took a deep breath and said, "I came here because I need your help."

down and tell me," she said, patting

imagined she'd be distant and aloof, someone with an untouchable elegance. Instead, she was warm and approachable, a complete

didn't overthink it-I sat beside her. Sometimes, being close

We conce.

my life," I said bluntly. I didn't hold back, laying out

finished, I looked her in the eye, every ounce of my sincerity on display. "If Mr. Drago and Cole can't get what they want, they'll make me-and the

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prayer beads in her hands, rolling them between her fingers. Her face stayed calm,

shocked. She wasn't

was clear she knew what her husband and son were capable of. She couldn't stop them, so she'd chosen to live a life of quiet reflection, perhaps as her own

she said, her words simple and firm, without a hint

cautiously. The protection I needed wasn't something she

know. Whatever you need to

f

caught me off guard,

Drago, I wouldn't resort to this if I

face seemed to glow-not from light, but from the calm and serenity she

to say. Then she asked, "Just tell

cooperate so willingly made