Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 853

+25 BONUS Chapter

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"If I don't move out, my mom will probably show up at the hospital tomorrow with a banner," Lena sighed.

"Then just move. Let her chill. We'll figure the rest out later," Aaron said, clearly on her side with this one.)

Lena flashed back to her school days, when he'd cover for her every time she slacked on homework or skipped studying. Who would've thought, years later, they'd end up in the same dynamic? "Lena," a familiar voice called out.

She turned to see Nate jogging toward her. He nodded politely at Aaron, but his eyes locked on her. "Dinner tonight?"

"Nope," Lena said, not missing a beat. "I already made plans with Uncle Aaron." She didn't even flinch as she used Aaron as her human shield-just like old times.

Classic Lena move: human shield in action. Back in the day, she'd dodged every awkward confession or cringy love letter by pulling the Aaron excuse.

glanced at Aaron. "Then, Mr. Ace, mind if I join

didn't hesitate. "Yes,

a real shot at winning her back. So, he plastered on a calm smile and nodded. "Alright, Lena. Another time." "Nate." Lena's voice softened. "If this is about work, catch me during office hours. Outside

chest tighten. "Even if we're not together, can't we

it's better if we don't. Exes being friends? It's never real-it just gets messy. And honestly...

Who'd want to date someone still tangled up with

on, finding someone else,

say something, anything, but Aaron's presence and his own pride stopped lim. He came here to win her back, but her cold rejection left him reeling. "Alright then," he said, volce

before turning to Aaron. "Uncle Aron, let's

Chapter 853

+25 BONUS

Nate stayed rooted to the spot, the distance

his chest was sharp, a mix

his work stealing time they should've spent together. He thought fixing that would fix them. So, he rearranged his life,

than