Love's Redemption

Redmption 42

This was the first time I had said something so bold. Brandon paused, then responded in a cool and detached manner. “You’re overthinking it.”

I felt a bit awkward.

He turned around and started cutting the watermelon. He arranged them neatly on a plate as if they were soldiers waiting for inspection. Watching him, I suddenly felt a strong urge to explore his room again.

“Why aren’t you eating? Just looking at it won’t satisfy you,” Kelly teased me.

I realized that Kelly was no ordinary person. She could scold with her hands on her hips. But she showed care with warmth and told a risque joke without missing a beat.

was just waiting for you. You’ve worked hard standing up for me,” I replied playfully, handing her the biggest piece of watermelon.

Kelly didn’t hesitate and took a bide. “It’s sweet. But I can’t eat much because of my high blood sugar.”

I started eating the watermelon too. But Brandon went back to his room and didn’t come out again. When it was time for dinner, he left. I wanted to ask if her wasn’t going to eat. But he walked so fast I didn’t get the chance.

Kelly snorted beside me. “Brandon is quite aloof. It’s only because you caught his eye that he treats you this way.”

Treats me how? I didn’t ask, but his massage did help. After a good night’s sleep, my foot didn’t hurt anymore.

The next morning, the courtyard was unusually quiet. It was as if no one was

there.

I walked out in my slip dress and immediately locked eyes with two pairs of eyes at the table. Brandon’s eyes met mine for a few seconds before he quickly looked away. I noticed his ears were red again.

I looked at my outfit, and my face flushed as well.

I quickly turned back into my room. But Kelly called out warmly, “Maddie, why

are you going back inside? Come and have some oatmeal.”

By the time I came back out dressed, Brandon had already left. I glanced toward his room. “Why isn’t he eating already?”

“He got scared off by you,” Kelly said. She then scooted closer to me and said, ” You have some pretty high–level tactics, young lady.”

I ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

Her suggestive winks made it clear what she was implying. But I hadn’t done. anything on purpose.

“Mrs. Rhodes, having such thoughts at your age isn’t good for your health.” I

teased back.

She looked at me. “What did you say? What thoughts? Have I been too nice to you these past few days, letting you insult me indirectly?”

I laughed. “No, no. I was complimenting you. At your age, you’re still sharp–eyed and quick–witted. Nothing escapes your keen perception.”

“So, there is something between you and Brandon?”

I looked at my pale feet, thinking of another man who had once massaged them. “Mrs. Rhodes, I’m really not in the mood for romance now. It hurts too

much.”

“It hurts, huh?” Kelly clicked her tongue. “The best remedy is to find someone and heal those wounds.”

Kelly’s thoughts were quite forward.

I pressed my lips together. “Not now. I just want to be alone for a while.

Kelly sighed. “There are some people you might miss for a lifetime if you miss the chance. But do as you wish…”

She got up to wash her bowl, leaving me alone to finish my oatmeal.

After breakfast, I left on my bike. I didn’t see Brandon, not knowing if he had. already left or was still inside his room.

When I returned in the evening, Kelly was humming a tune in the courtyard, looking quite cheerful.