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."

Honestly, half the time, we don't even have real dates. If he moves on, tell him his next girlfriend won't put up with that. No girl

Baxter snorted. "And you're okay with a boyfriend

stuttered.

guy who loved his wife and

along, she replied, "It's

have to provide for their families, hard, you

Baxter let out another

to be," Lena murmured. "My boyfriend 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 your wife must've

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Chapter 768

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

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

as an obstetrician. The most beautiful sound in the world? A baby's first cry. But do you know what we

we can't save them. I'll never forget the 762nd

so fragile, we had to suction manually. One doctor took over when another couldn't

patient, the family isn't the first to cry. We are. Declaring a death feels 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?" "You feel