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."

she said, patting the spot next

imagined she'd be distant and aloof, someone with

beside her. Sometimes, being close helps

We conce.

to ask for your help to save my life," I said bluntly. I didn't hold back,

I 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 thing they're after- disappear. You're the only one who can

Chaider 257

hands, rolling them between her fingers. Her face stayed calm, her expression unchanging, even as I

wasn't shocked.

She couldn't stop them, so she'd chosen to live a life of quiet reflection, perhaps as her

her words simple

asked cautiously. The protection I needed wasn't something she could offer with just a

smiled faintly. "I know. Whatever you

f

me off guard,

wouldn't resort to this if

In the dim room, her face seemed to glow-not from light,

what to say. Then she asked, "Just

willingly made