Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 769

The rooftop wind whipped through Lena's hair sharp enough to feel like nature itself was rooting for her demise.

She bit her lip, wondering, 'Did anyone even notice I'm missing? Or nah?"

But she shoved the thought aside if she wanted out of this alive, it was on her.

With a shaky breath, she squared up. "So, if you're set on making me your revenge trophy for your wife and kid, fine, I can't stop you. But could I at least get a word in? Like, when my parents start hunting you down, could you maybe deliver a message for me?" It was obvious the guy had loved his family hard, you don't pull this level of crazy for casual feelings.

"Save it," Mr. Baxter snapped. Yikes.

Lena didn't waste time arguing. Instead, she dove right in. "My mom's not in great health. She had complications after I was born, and if something happens to me... just don't tell her, okay? She wouldn't handle it well.

"And

'And my dad? He looks tough, but he's a total softie. Cries at the drop of a hat. If he finds out I'm gone, he'll break down completely. Please, tell him not to cry. Tell him that in my next life, I'll still be his daughter. Oh, and he's been craving some purslane from back home. I already set up for someone to send it, so make sure he gets it.

"My grandparents, too. They're old and fragile. Don't tell them what happened to me. Say I'm busy with surgeries or off abroad for training."

then smiled faintly. "And... I have a boyfriend. He's super busy, always working. Honestly, half the time, we don't even have real dates.

"And you're okay with

stuttered.

loved his wife and kid this

she replied, "It's not

for their families, hard, you know? Gotta make

out another scoff. "You're way too

says the same." She hesitated; then added gently, "You know, for a man and woman to really be happy, they've gotta understand and support each other. You and

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Chapter 768

weren't for you people..." Mr. Baxter's voice cracked. "We could've been

his words hit Lena like a punch to the gut. She forced herself to stay calm, her tone steady but empathetic. "You're right. We falled

A baby's first cry. But do you know what we dread the most? Silence. A baby who doesn't cry. When that happens, we act fast, slapping their tiny backs over and over, desperate to

how hard we try, we can't save them.

to clear it, but this baby's organs were so fragile, we had to suction manually. One doctor took over when another couldn't keep going.

like being gutted over and over. And the guilt? It's unbearable. Why couldn't we save them? Why couldn't we work a miracle?"