Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie) novel Chapter 161

Chapter 161 

Ever since I wasn’t obligated to practice calligraphy with Zack, I hadn’t picked up a brush on my own in years. Despite being older now, I avoided doing work if could, just like when I was younger. 

“Don’t worry, just write freely. Express yourself however it comes,” Zack encouraged while handing the brush to me once more. How could I refuse now? 

The brush felt considerably heavier in my hand now compared to when I had held it in the store. Perhaps it was the ink weighing it down, or maybe it was the weight of Zack’s expectations. 

He hoped that I was still able to write skilfully and that I still loved Chris as before. That way, I would still be closely related to them. 

I started writing. My hand trembled, so the strokes were uneven despite my best efforts. I knew Zack wasn’t really interested in the technical aspects of my calligraphy, he just wanted to glean what I was feeling. 

“Live in the moment,” Zack read what I wrote out loud. Just like him, I also used my words to express my emotions. 

He didn’t say anything else and just nodded. Then, he looked at me solemnly and said, “Maddie, I wish you nothing but happiness.” 

He reached out his hand to shake mine, but I surprised him by pulling him into a gentle embrace. “Thank you, Zack,” I murmured. 

Zack patted my back softly. “I’m sorry. You’ve been mistreated. It’s my fault for not keeping a closer eye on my son.” 

Earlier, Zack hadn’t apologized when Bree complained. Yet here he was, apologizing to me. Tears welled up in my eyes all of a sudden. 

Sensing my shift in mood, he patted my head before gently pulling away. 

He looked at my reddened eyes and said, “I’m aware of Chris‘ foolish actions, and I’ve already dealt with it. If he mistreats you again, I’lchase him out of the house. He should know better.” 

Initially, I was here to complain about Chris and to ask Zack to take care of things, but Zack had addressed it before I could bring it up. 

He knew me well. The ten years we had spent together, even though we were not biologically related, had forged a bond as strong as any blood relation. 

“Thank you, Zack.” I bowed. 

I wasn’t only thankful for his siding with me and protecting me, but also for the love and care he had given me over the past decade. 

Zack reached for my hand. “Don’t do that. It makes me feel like… you’re planning to sever ties with us.” 

I shook my head. “You and Bree will always be family.” 

Zack smiled. “Yes. When I go downstairs, I’ll tell that Brandon to treat you well. If he doesn’t, I’ll make his life a living hell.” 

This was the first time the gentle and elegant Zack threatened someone. I smiled as well. “I’ll definitely remind him.” 

Zack patted my head again. “Maddie, no matter your decision, I only have one wish, and that’s for you to 

Chapter 161 

be happy.” 

He was every bit the father figure I had never had. Tears welled up in my eyes once more, and I nodded.