Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie) novel Chapter 299

Chapter 299 

“Wayne, Jace is an adult. He has to deal with the consequences of his choices,” I said. 

Whether Matthew kicked him out or cut ties, it was all on Jace. 

“I get that,” Wayne sighed, “but seeing him and Dad at each other’s throats is stressful. And if he leaves the company, it’s definitely going to affect business.” 

I gave him a small, knowing smile. “Isn’t that why you’re here?” 

Wayne looked taken aback. “I’ve never wanted to run the company. That’s why I left in the first place.” 

Only he knew if that was the whole story, but it wasn’t my place to judge. 

Still, I shared my thoughts anyway. “Matthew must have a backup plan. If he’s ready to let Jace go, it’s because he knows the business will keep running without him,” I said, keeping my tone practical. The world doesn’t stop turning for anyone.” 

Wayne just stared at me, speechless. He finally gave a bitter smile. “I guess I’ve been too narrow–minded.” 

“You just care too much,” I said, giving him an out. 

He looked at me. “Rea, you’re different from four years ago.” 

Four years ago? 

He had to be kidding. Even a kid can grow up a lot in four years. 

“That’s called growing up,” I said with a faint smile. 

Wayne sighed softly, his gaze lingering on me with a mix of emotions. “Yeah, Little Rea has grown up.” 

Hearing him call me “Little Rea” tugged at something deep inside. After my parents died and I moved into the Johnston residence, Wayne and Jace used to call me that. It was teasing, but with a warmth that made me feel like I belonged. 

But it had been such a long time since I’d heard that nickname. 

“Wayne, let them figure it out. It’s not good for you to get too caught up in it,” I said, offering more advice than I usually would. Maybe because that old nickname brought back memories I thought I’d buried. 

Wayne nodded. “I know.” 

He looked at me intently and asked, “Are you sure you’re okay? If anything’s wrong, just tell me. I’ll always be your family. II—” 

The door opened, interrupting him. 

Hayden walked in, carrying food containers. He didn’t look surprised to see Wayne there; he just gave him 

a brief nod 

Wayne stood up. “Rea, you haven’t eaten yet?” 

I opened my mouth to respond, but Hayden beat me to it. “We’re about to eat now.” 

It was a polite way of asking Wayne to give us some space. Hayden might come off as distant, but when 

+25 BONUS 

Chapter 290 

he spoke, he always got his point across.