Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

I didn't have any big problems with Brandon, just felt a bit uncomfortable about his secrets. But I couldn't tell Ellie about that. Her heart was delicate, and she was quick to worry. "No, everything's fine," I said with a smile. "You see how things are between Brandon and me."

Her eyes were so clear and bright that I almost felt like I would dirty them just by looking.

I put my hand up to gently cover her eyes. "Really, there's nothing wrong. If you're still worried, you can talk to Brandon when you get back."

"Mae," Ellie said, hugging my arm and resting her head on my shoulder, "if Bran ever does something wrong, just scold him or give him a hard time. But don't leave him." She spoke like she was pleading. I nudged her gently with my head. "Okay, I won't."

Ellie nodded and said, "Mae, I'll always support you."

Her worry was surprising. I didn't realize how much I meant to her until now. It was the first time I felt so important to someone.

"Mae," Ellie said suddenly, "if something bad happens to me, and you leave Bran too, he'll be really sad."

"Don't say that," I reassured her. "Nothing's going to happen to you."

Ellie stayed quiet. I could tell she was anxious and scared.

No one would want to face the possibility of death-Ellie and Zack included. Yet, fate was merciless, placing obstacles in their path that they had no choice but to confront. I talked about the concert to change the subject from Ellie's sad mood. Just then, Lisa called.

"Are you still at your sister-in-law's room?" she asked.

"Yes, Dr. Carline. What do you need?" I answered.

"I got some strawberries from someone. Come pick them up for Ellie," Lisa said. Even though she didn't usually take gifts, she shared them with others.

"Okay, I'll come by," I said, happy for an excuse to leave.

When I got to Lisa's office, she had already packed the strawberries, plus some cherries and blueberries. Since Lisa was busy in the operating room, her assistant gave me the fruit. As I struggled with the heavy bags of fruit, a friendly voice said, "Madeline, let me help you."

I looked up and saw Charles. Before I could say anything, he took the bags from me.

"I don't need help. I can manage," I said, though it was clear I was struggling.

Charles started to ask something but stopped. Then, he asked, "Where are you headed?"

"To the orthopedic ward on the 12th floor," I replied.

"Okay, I'll walk you there," Charles said, and he started walking ahead.

I followed Charles for a moment, then asked, "How's your mentor doing?"

Charles tightened his grip on the fruit. "Still the same."

"Do you visit every day?" I asked, feeling concerned.

"Yeah," he answered.

The way he said it made it feel more serious than usual.

I took a deep breath and asked, "Is there anyone else with her?"

He was quiet for a moment, then said, "There are others, but she's been bedridden for nearly two years. The family's patience is running out."

Hearing that made me feel sad. I quickly asked, "Can I visit her now?"