Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 923

"Because this love didn't give me the happiness I imagined," Lena explained with a faint smile. "It's like going to the supermarket, picking out a snack you're excited about, and then finding out it doesn't suit your taste. After that, you just don't like it anymore and won't

bother with it again."

Her metaphor was strikingly apt.

"And what does the happiness you imagine look like?" Aaron asked, as though playing the role of a persistent interviewer.

Lena, softened by the alcohol, answered obediently, "I don't know. But whatever it is, Nate didn't give it to me."

Aaron observed the peaceful resignation in her expression and pressed further. "Do you still believe in love? Do you still want to start a new relationship?"

"Of course," Lena said, finally lifting her gaze to meet his. Her eyebrows arched into a cheerful expression. "I'm not the kind of person who gets scared off by a bad experience. If I meet someone who makes my heart race again, I'll love them boldly and passionately." As she spoke, she raised her hand from the shoe cabinet, intending to make a welcoming gesture toward her imagined happiness. But the alcohol muddled her balance, and she stumbled forward.

Aaron instinctively reached out to steady her. His injured arm limited his movement, so he could only brace her gently. She ended up collapsing against his chest.

"Uncle, I feel so dizzy," she murmured, her breath brushing against his chest through the thin fabric of his loungewear, seeping into his very core.

Aaron froze, his entire body going stiff. Fighting to maintain control, he said softly, "You're drunk. Let me take you to your room to sleep."

she said suddenly, tilting her head to look up at him. Her voice was soft, but her question was clear. "Earlier, you said you had someone

her full attention to

her petite figure leaning against him, soft and

Lena blinked, her eyes wide

delicate features filled with curiosity, "She's silly. She's obviously smart, but when it comes

"That sounds awful. Why do you like her, then? She doesn't deserve

+25 BONUS

Chapter 923

Aaron said quietly. "What should

Maybe after spending some time together, you'll realize you're not

her," Aaron admitted, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "I'm scared I'll frighten

deliver it for you-just like when girls used to ask me to give you their love letters in school." Aaron chuckled lightly. "You

"So you knew all along,

allowed it because even

softly, "can you tell me why you intercepted

want them to like you, and I definitely didn't want you dating

breath hitched. "Why didn't you want me

Lena hesitated, searching for the words. "Because I was afraid if

"You were afraid I wouldn't