*Seven months later*

A lot has changed in the last seven months. Well, I guess that is an understatement. Compared to the shitfest before, everything has changed in the last seven months. Including our cake-baking skills.

The cake made it to our oven safe and sound. As long as I didn't forget about it while we're getting ready, it should turn out to be one very sexy cake. Why was I baking a cake? First of all, cake is amazing. Second, Luke and I were hosting a house warming party for his family. We needed a kickass desert after the kickass barbeque.

Between Luke working, him going to therapy, and me going to therapy, we've been pretty busy lately. And that was after we moved into our new house. It left us with little time to see the family, so we figured a cook-out would be nice. The preparation began after I got home from therapy at about 1:30 this afternoon. So far, I started the cake, thawed the meat, showered and got ready. Luke just got home from work, so he had a little catching up to do before his family arrives.

Standing in front of our dresser mirror, I was in a nice red sundress with floral print around the edges. It fluttered gently against my knees from the open window's summer breeze. Hair down, my wavy black curls draped around my shoulders. My necklace was in place, engagement ring secured on my finger. Spraying a little perfume to finish, I caught Luke's eyes in the mirror. He stood behind me, staring at me with a soft smile while he undid the buttons of his uniform.

Turning, I walked up to him with a smirk and finished undoing the buttons for him. "What are you looking at, officer? You creepin' on me again?"

His eyes met mine with amusement. "Don't pretend you don't like it, pretty girl." He shrugged off his uniform vest, undershirt, and utility belt. "You love your creep."

"I cannot deny that," I smiled. "So, perv, how was your day of fighting crime and saving the world?"

Yes, guys. Luke decided to remain a police officer. He strived for purpose and knew he was a damn good police officer. Plus, he wanted nothing to do with his family's money anymore that had dirty origins, so he needed to continue making a living. However, he was conflicted over his decision – and occasionally still was.

He goes to therapy weekly from all he's been through. Continuing as a police officer was a main issue. He felt like a hypocrite after breaking so many laws. You know, from our days of kicking ass and taking names. But his therapist was helping him. She actually was the one who encouraged him to continue in law-enforcement. She believed remaining a cop would help with the guilt. Which it has slowly. Though he was still conflicted, Luke was doing better each day.

"Today wasn't bad. They are still pushing me to go for a higher rank, but it will be a while until I'm ready. Also, Ramper was demoted to desk duty for the day so that was fun to watch," he chuckled, moving to our dresser. He snagged a muscle shirt from his drawer, pulled it over his bare chest, and glanced back to me sweetly. "How was your session?"

Well, time for my shameful update. Unlike Luke (and most normal therapy-goers), I went to a psychiatrist more than once a week. And more than one hour a day too. That's right guys, I wasn't acting all dramatic before for no reason. I was one hell of a fucked-up little mess.

Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, I drove to a mental health facility about half an hour away. During my sessions, I speak to one of my three therapists. For four hours each of those days, we talk – and talk and blah blah blah. Yeah, I know; I'm dedicated, and you should feel sorry for my ass for having to go through that three days a week. Honestly though, it wasn't too bad.

If you couldn't guess, I hated it – loathed it – when I first started going. But after several months of going, I became used to it. I can even acknowledge, and embarrassingly admit, that it has helped me significantly. My nightmares were still frequent; I was still fairly paranoid, but not to the level I was before. There was still a lot I needed to work on, but I was doing better. Especially with my self-image. From talking a lot about my past, my mother, my father, the cult, and all the trauma and death... it made me really open my eyes. I won't bore you with the girly and emotional details. Just know I was doing better, okay losers? I was doing much better and was anxious to keep improving.

Unlike past times I've been in therapy, I didn't screw with my therapists' by making up dumb stories. Sure, it wasn't as fun, but taking my sessions seriously has gotten me far. That only meant I had to make up for it though by screwing with everyone else.

Like my sweet and lovely fiancé.

"The session went good. We talked about some really interesting stuff today actually," I said, nonchalantly nearing him.

He stripped off his heavy work pants and tossed them into the hamper next to the dresser. Leaning down in just his muscle shirt and boxers, he pulled out a pair of khaki shorts from the bottom drawer. "Yeah? What did you guys talk about?"

I quickly stepped forward, reached around him, and snagged the shorts right out of his hands. Then, backed up to the middle of the room. Like a fucking ninja, folks.

Turning to face me, his lips spread wide. "Oh, so you guys talked about how it's okay to steal from your amazing and wonderful fiancé, huh?"

"Wow, you're good, how did you know?" I held the shorts out in front of me, wiggling them teasingly.

"Did you also talk about how, in return, your fiancé will take you down without a fight?"

"No, we talked about the art of blackmail after that."

Laughing, he marched up to me, swiped an arm around me before I could get away, and pushed me onto the bed. Rolling away with his shorts did no good. He grabbed my leg and quickly climbed over me. His beautiful smile grew flirtatious as those green eyes stared down to mine. The breeze from the window to our right brushed against our close faces and ruffled his hair. "Blackmail me and see how it goes now," he chuckled.

"The art of blackmail is out of the question in this position." Smirking up to him, I wrapped a leg over his and leaned up closer.

"Is that right?"

Playfully rubbing his chest over his shirt, I whispered against his lips, "Now, we must discuss the art of you... taking me in your arms... turning me on," I trailed off seductively, kissing him gently before continuing. "...Rubbing your body against mine...."

"Now we're getting somewhere," he chuckled though a moan. Body relaxing over me, his hand slid up my thigh and under my dress, stroking my skin in desire.

Damn, I might have to wear dresses more often. "You willing to do those things to me to get your precious shorts back?"

With his other hand, he cupped my cheek and kissed me deeply. Our lips and tongues meshed together. Instinctively, my hands slid around his strong back and held him tightly down to me. With the flirty and seductive air mixing between us, he pulled back and whispered, "I'm more than willing, baby." Just as he lowered his lips back though, he stopped and said in a normal voice, "Unfortunately, your cake is going to burn though if you don't pull it out of the oven. And you know our bad rep with cakes, sweetie."

"Fucking asshole," I laughed, pushing him off me. He was right. Checking the clock next to our bed, I had to pull the cake out in one minute. Stupid cock-blocking cake.

We both stood up from the bed, straightened our clothes, and I surrendered the shorts to him. Before I could run downstairs and attend to the cake though, he grabbed my hand and pulled me into a big and sweet kiss. Breaking away, he gave my ass a playful squeeze and said, "I'd be more than happy trying out such an elegant art later though."

"If you're lucky," I teased with a wink before I headed downstairs.

The house we decided on was beautiful and isolated. It was a two-story house with light blue siding and plenty of windows – which I had a hard time with at first. Once I managed getting past the paranoia of having so many windows though, the view was worth it. Surrounding our home just a beautiful lawn and woods, blocking us from the road. And yes, being completely hidden was very much on purpose. So was living about thirty minutes away from the area I lived all my life until a few years ago.

The interior was gorgeous. The first floor had a lot of space, so we needed a little catching up on décor. Other than that, it was perfect! No sisters buried in the backyard, no bullet holes in the walls. The only work the interior needed when we moved in was a paint job and hardwood floors, which we accomplished about two months ago. This summer we planned on tacking the outside work. Like building a larger deck.

Our current deck was too small for today's cook-out. So, we were setting up in our large backyard fenced by trees. After I spread the yellow frosting over the cake (which turned out perfectly by the way), Luke and I headed outside to prepare. We moved the patio table and the chairs to the grass. While I was spreading out the plastic tablecloth over our table, Luke dragged out the cooler we already filled with ice, pop, and beer.

He positioned the cooler next to the grill, which was under a shade tree a few yards away from the patio table. "Anything else we need to do? Besides each other," he scoffed as he neared me.

After weighing down the tablecloth with a citronella candle, I glanced to him with a smirk. "Actually, I think we have everything ready."

Standing beside me, tucking his thumbs into his short's pockets, he looked over our set-up with me. "We made good time. They're all coming at around 6:00, right?"

"Yeah, but that doesn't mean much to Franny boy." Francis had no problem showing up whenever he felt like – which often was dramatically early.

"I know, it's almost 5:30 and I'm shocked he isn't here yet." Turning, we both started walking back up towards the house. "Are you going to tell him the news first before everyone gets here?" he asked with, poking my side playfully.

Yeah, yeah, yeah, you heard right. There was some news to share with everyone when they get here! All I can say is that it was nice to finally have peace with something I was unsure about for a long time.

Luke knew I was excited, but I could hold my tongue until everyone gets here. "Naw, I'll wait and tell everyone at once. Maybe I'll tell them when we're eating. It will be a good distraction from the shit food." Last time we grilled, Luke burned the hotdogs and burgers. You better believe I'm not going to let him live it down until he redeems himself.

Over a chuckle, he exclaimed, "Excuse me?! Would you like to do the grilling this time?"

"Wouldn't you like the chance to win back your manhood?"

A high pitched voice interrupted our teasing. "Hi guys!"

Almost at the house, we stopped walking and glanced up. Brooke was running towards us from around the side of the house. Her long hair was down, blowing behind her as she ran through the grass in pure excitement. And though she always reminded me of Emily, she was her own little person already. Growing more and more into herself every time we saw her.

Literally too. She didn't slow down, and body slammed me with a big hug. If she does that a year from now, I might end up on my ass. "Brooke, what is up?" I grinned, stumbling slightly and hugging her back.

"So much is up," she said, leaving my arms and giving Luke a big hug too. After releasing her uncle, she looked up to him with innocent eyes. "Uncle Luke, dad said I have to help you grill today because you did a bad job last time."

He rested his hands on his hips, tilting his head as he looked down to her. "Your dad and Albany sure have a great memory, don't they?" he asked her, smiling. "Brooke, I would love your help!"

After Luke gave his niece an enthusiastic high-five, Francis entered the backyard from around the house as well. Clad in a 'best dad ever' graphic tee-shirt and jeans, he walked up to us with a care-free smile. Running a hand through his hair, he looked between us. His hazel eyes glinted with mock arrogance behind his thick frames. "No need to worry now, the life of the party has arrived," he said, moving in and giving Luke a hug.

"Joy to the world," I mumbled with a smirk.

Stepping back, he waggled his brows at me in a challenging manner. Then, he pulled me in for a hug too. Such a sweet and fun person. For how involved Francis had been in our life-threatening adventures, him being alive and here still felt like a miracle. He did it all for us. Though we've been back to our normal lives, I never failed to hug him a second longer than usual. Which often earned me some teasing.

He tilted his mouth towards my ear and whispered. "Now, now... your fiancé is right there...."

Laughing, I shoved him away. "Shut up."

Since we were all done setting up, the four of us headed up to the house and walked through the sliding backdoor. I made sure I entered last so I could lock the door behind us. Yes, bad paranoid habit, but at least I didn't need to keep all the doors locked constantly like before.

Stepping onto the wood floors, Brooke ran into the living room (probably to investigate the toy bin we kept for her). With the kitchen directly to the right of the sliding door, Francis booked it to the fridge. Closing the fridge door, Francis turned to us and cracked open a beer. He moved to the island in the middle of the kitchen and plopped down in one of the bar stools. "I'm curious. How is this a house-warming party? You guys have been moved in for months now."

Luke sat next to him at the island. "Because we wanted a barbeque and a house-warming party was the best excuse. Plus, I like family get-togethers. Even if you have to come," he said jokingly.

I rounded the island and stood across from them, propping my hands against the counter. Francis scoffed. "You don't need an excuse to have a barbeque." When he set his beer down after a sip, his eyes stopped on our mail a few feet in front of him. "No way," he whispered, dragging the top envelope in front of him. His eyes shot up in surprise to me. "It's official?"

He must have noticed my name on the envelope. It didn't read the fake one I've had for the last several months. I smiled with a sigh. "Yeah, as of last week."

"You okay so far with being Miss. Albany Higgins again?"

Remember how paranoid I was about people coming after me and killing me? I was scared, I felt like a sitting duck. And that was before I moved in with Luke. Having a permanent residence made my paranoia much worse. Thankfully, it got better once the FBI helped me. I know, that's a fucking first!

After everything that went down, the FBI were very grateful to me. Yeah, being a kickass superhero has its perks. In other words, they wanted to repay me for taking down a cult and its leader they've been after for so long. So, I asked to go back to my life with a temporary fake name and identity. Let me tell you, it shaved off a good chunk of paranoia and made me feel safer.

Recently, I decided to finally go back to my real name. I can't say I was ready. I was still on edge about it, but in the long run, it will help validate that I truly am safe. Not to mention, it was nice to be rid of yet another ugly sounding name: Margaret. Yeah. Not a great way to end the string of fake names. Morgan, Peggy, and finally, Margaret. Who the fuck comes up with these?

I shrugged. "I'll admit, I am more on edge because of it. That was expected though and it will overall help me."

Luke's eyes found mine and he offered a sympathetic smile. "With her real name back, we found out quickly she has plenty of fans."

"Yeah? That's pretty sweet," Francis said.

I rolled my eyes. "90% are apology letters. From the dumb fucks I used to go to school with. This is the first time living here since news got out years ago that – shocker – I wasn't insane. Apparently, the assholes I went to school with still 'feel bad' about harassing and abusing me."

Francis nodded. "Did you write any of them back?"

I snorted and stood up straighter, running my thumb along the edge of the granite. "If they feel guilty, they deserve it. I'm not holding a grudge or anything, but I'm not going to forgive them." And I was absolutely fine with that. Maybe not forgiving them will be enough for them to grow up. Call me stubborn, but I'm sure their precisions little lives will be fine without my forgiveness. Even my therapist was on my side.

"Daddy, can we go exploring?" came Brooke's cheery voice and fast footsteps. She ran into the kitchen and peered up to her father. "Please? We can try to find the berry bushes again!"

"Sure princess," he said, taking one last sip of beer. He stood up, grabbed his daughter's hand, and neared the sliding door.

"Oh Francis?" Luke called with an amused smile. He looked behind his shoulder to where they stopped in their tracks. "What did we learn last time...?"

"Yeah daddy, remember. We can't eat the berries."

Luke nodded. "That's right, you don't want to get sick."

Francis unlocked and slid open the door. "Then maybe Albany should do the grilling today," he said, making Brooke laugh before they stepped out and slid the door shut.

Chuckling myself, I stepped back a few feet and clapped my palms together. "He got you good."

"You know... maybe he is right," Luke said, standing up and nearing the sink. Next to the sink was the platter of raw meat ready to be grilled. His teasing eyes didn't leave mine as he gestured down to the food. "Maybe you should do all the cooking. Maybe it's my turn to be served. You know what, that sounds wonderful, that—"

"Wow, you would do that to your perfect fiancé?"

"No, you're right, I wouldn't." He moved to the left and opened the top drawer next to the hand towels. "Because my fiancé wouldn't know what she's doing."

Beyond our banter, I noticed what he was doing and walked over to him. "Listen copper, if we ever had a cook-off, I'd whoop your ass," I laughed, holding out my hand.

He pulled out the gun, shut the drawer, and dropped it into my waiting hand. "You're lucky I like you," he said flirtatiously. "And make sure you get the other two guns."

Smiling, I nodded and left the kitchen with the gun. Heading upstairs for a quick minute, I grabbed the second gun we had hidden under our bed. Tossing those on the bed, I grabbed my purse and dug through it. Though Brooke wouldn't go through my purse, you can't be too cautious. I pulled out my little concealed pistol. Yes, I carried that thing around in public. Believe it or not, I actually had a license to carry now. Because unfortunately, when you live with a cop, you eventually need to start doing things the legal way.

I locked the guns in the safe in the back of our closet. It bothered me to lock them up and not have easy access to a gun. But when curious and innocent Brooke was around, her safety was obviously more important than my paranoia.

***

Nothing was better at a cook-out than the smell. So damn good. Luke grilled burgers, hotdogs, and chicken. Next to the grill, we had a small table set up with potato salad, fruit, and some other sides. After the first batch of meat was done, most of us started eating around the patio table. Luke continued grilling a second batch of food while having a beer and visiting with Shannon's husband, Rick.

Since I met him, I've learned Rick was a really sweet and down-to-earth guy. It was still crazy knowing she was married – and has been for a few years now. Shannon enjoyed reminding me that I was next. Honestly, I think she had more plans for my wedding than I did.

"So, have you guys picked a color scheme yet?" she asked from where she sat across from me at the rectangular table. She speared a piece of chicken from her plate and took a bite.

"Honestly, I'm not even thinking about the wedding yet. We know we want a small outside wedding. That's the extend of my planning so far," I chuckled.

"Shannon, how many times do you need to be reminded," Mike muffled through chewing his burger. Sitting to her left, he rolled his eyes and flailed the hand that wasn't holding his burger. "They don't plan on getting married for at least a few more years. They don't even have a date. Let the kids relax for a bit."

"You're one to talk. You and mom were only engaged for a few months before getting married."

"What can I say, I was excited for the honeymoon," Mike said jokingly, winking to Jan and making her snicker.

On Shannon's other side, Francis rolled his eyes. "You guys are disgusting."

Seeing the love in Mike's eyes for his wife, I couldn't help but smile. Mike was doing amazing compared to a few months ago. He had more wrinkles around his eyes, more grey in his hair, but recently (especially today), it was easy to look beyond those changes. His brown eyes were full of more life, energy, and love. He seemed to be back to his joking and witty self. No doubt the new job was helping with that.

The success and wealth Mike achieved throughout his life... was built by the money his father made from selling Hailey. So when Mike learned the truth, he quit the company immediately – and had nothing but tremendous guilt. Enough guilt that he wanted to give away his life savings, his retirement, all of the money he made from that horrible place. However, without a job, he had no choice but to hold onto that money. He needed to continue providing and he needed to continue paying for Hailey's expensive treatment. It kept them afloat, but mentally he was drowning. Until about two months ago.

Thanks to his experience as such a successful businessman in the past, he managed landing a prestigious position at a completely different company. Mike was now making just as much money as he was before. Since he had a secure income now, he donated the majority of the dirty money he made from the last place. It relieved a lot of his guilt – and even more because he donated the money to the women who are now finally free of that cult.

I would soon learn Mike's new job wasn't the only reason he was doing so much better.

Grilling finished, the last two men finally joined us at the table. Sitting next to me, Luke set his plate of food down and his beer. Then, he turned to me with an amused smile and rested his hand on my leg. "Did you tell them yet, sweetie?" he asked, purposefully louder than usual to grab their attention.

Smiling and shaking my head at his demand for attention, I elbowed his side playfully. He knew I was excited, but he also knew I didn't like making announcements. An update on my life felt like bragging if it's good news. And believe me, this was one hell of an awesome life update. Can you guys guess what the announcement was?

I took another bite of my burger and deliberately chewed slowly, delaying my response just to tease Luke.

Francis smirked. "Must be really good if it deserves an announcement. Please share with the class."

Everyone was looking at me. Waiting. Just to tease them, I continued chewing slowly, putting up a finger for everyone to be patient. Finally swallowing (that's what she said), I said, "I like building suspense." Taking a quick swig of my water, I met the eyes of everyone around me. "It's honestly not that big of a deal, it's just exciting for me. I have finally decided that this fall, I will be going to school. I want to be a social worker. Well, I am going to be a social worker."

That's right! After so long of not knowing what I wanted to do with my life, after all that has happened, it finally hit me. I wanted to be a social worker! And yeah, yeah, I know some of you suckers though the news was that I was pregnant. Isn't that a little cliché though? Come on guys. Plus, Luke and I talked about it. I didn't want kids until after we are married for a while. But yes, Luke and I have talked about it, and kids are on the table for our future.

"Oh Albany, that is fantastic!" Jan said from where she was sitting on my right. She turned to me and gave me a half hug.

Among everyone's happy wishes, Mike chimed in. "Wow, good for you kiddo!"

Sitting back up straight, I took a deep breath and smiled. "Thank you."

Having a future, having a career, wasn't a possibility most of my life. When it was, I didn't know what I wanted to do. But after all that has happened to me, it clicked. I had nobody to save me from my upbringing, nobody to save me from bullies, nobody to help me get out of a toxic home when I was growing up. Social work would allow me to give what I never received. As sappy as this shit sounds, the thought of helping people was overpowering. Because I know what it's like, I know how bad it can get, and I can be the person to stop it this time.

"When do you start your classes?" Francis asked.

"August 28th."

He cocked a smirk and raised an eyebrow. "Any chance you will need your school bodyguard again?"

Referring to when he used to accompany me to school, I chuckled. "I have a feeling I will be okay this time around."

Luke wrapped a supportive arm around my back and smiled. "After you graduate, this could potentially mean free at-home therapy sessions for me," he joked, winking down to me.

"Yeah, we can just ignore the conflict of interest," I chuckled, taking a bite of my burger.

We continued eating dinner as we talked. After sharing more about my upcoming classes and career, subjects shifted. Side conversations formed. Before dinner was over though, there was other exciting news. Way more mind-blowing than mine.

When there was a natural break in everyone's conversation, Jan brought up a subject very dear to all of us. "So, I think everybody would like to know. We went to see Hailey."

My eyebrows rose. Damn right everyone would like to know! Updates on Hailey were seldom.

We've all visited Hailey since the time she was admitted. Believe it or not, that included Luke too. Since he no longer felt as responsible for her going missing, he did go see his little sister. It's not like we could go often though. Mike and Jan went to see her the most, but even that wasn't much. Seeing family frequently would be counterproductive for Hailey. The last time I knew of a visit was over two months ago.

For the first couple months in the treatment center, she didn't do well. Despite being shown the truth, she was still convinced it was her father that sold her, not her grandfather of the same name. She wanted nothing to do with us. She wouldn't speak much, but when she did, she called us all liars.

By the time summer neared though, she started to budge. She started speaking, conversing, even if she was spewing painful accusations. There were a few calm and healthy conversations between her and her parents surprisingly. Though none of those conversations ended with her accepting the truth, it was still progress. Which was more than what I expected.

That was two months ago. So hearing that there was a visit since then... it narrowed everyone's focus. "When did you go?" Luke asked.

The warm sun peeked through the shade and highlighted a glint in Jan's gaze. An exciting loving glint. She looked between all of us. "Last week. Actually, the people at the treatment center were the ones who encouraged us to come see her. It was the first time they've reached out and asked for us to come, which was both exciting and astonishing."

Finishing his last bite, Mike dropped his dirty napkin on his plate. He lounged back in the chair and smiled. "Yeah, things have changed a lot. You guys ready to hear this?" he asked, looking between all of us as we waited in silence. "Hailey has made a shit load of progress since the last time we saw her. She... she finally saw reason and accepted the truth. She told us herself and...." He trailed off, starting to become emotional. To hide it, he faked a coughing fit and gestured for Jan to continue.

Unlike her husband, Jan's eyes watered with no shame. She smiled and took a deep breath. "She told us herself that she understands the truth now. She knows she was brainwashed. She knows it wasn't our fault for her being taken."

What?! There was a sigh of relief, exhales of peace, and stunned stares. I couldn't look away from Jan. Did I hear that right? Hailey... realized she was brainwashed? I was frozen, still listening, but the amount of relief internally was indescribable. And that's just coming from me! I couldn't imagine what Luke and the rest of them were feeling. They were burdened by guilt, grief, and heartbreak most of their lives. So, to get this news.... Wow.

"She wasn't bullshitting us either. It was real," Mike said after his 'cough' subsided.

"Yes, the folks taking care of her confirmed it with us. They broke through to her a while ago and have made progress the last few weeks. They didn't call us sooner because they weren't sure if it would stay that way, but it has. She's still recovering, still conflicted, but... she recognized the truth," Jan smiled with a shaky voice.

"Shit man," Francis whispered. Glancing over to him, his eyes watered too. "She's really...?"

Jan nodded, letting out a gleeful laugh. "Yes. Actually... they are hoping to have her released to us by Christmas this year!"

Reactions varied around the table. Gasps, laughs of joy, and just smiles. I turned in my seat to Luke, staring up into his wide eyes. Grabbing his hand that was limp against the table, I grinned. "Oh my god, oh my god, Luke!"

When his eyes slowly found mine, they watered. The muscles in his body were numb. He leaned back in his seat, as if the news pushed him back. "Did... did she say Christmas?" he asked me, lips spreading in a huge smile.

Biting my smile, I nodded. "Yes, baby."

I could feel the relief at the table. Could see and feel the weight lift from their shoulders. More than anything, I was happy and relieved for all of them. However, I will say I probably felt the most shock out of everyone at the table. Call me a pessimist, but I had the lowest expectations of Hailey recovering.

Sure, I had hope. I wanted terribly for her to snap out of her brainwashed state. I honestly did not think it would happen though. After all, I was in Reid's care for less than a few weeks. That's all it took to fuck with my head. Imagine if I was in his care, with less knowledge, for the majority of my life. That's why I was just stunned and shocked. Jesus... maybe I need to ditch my therapists and check into the miracle worker place she was in.

Kidding aside... my shocked state couldn't keep me from enjoying the tremendous news. After all this time, she was not only alive. She was found, saved, and will be coming home. Fucking coming home!

For the remainder of our meal and even after, we all spoke anxiously about the possibilities. About the accommodations Jan and Mike would make to accept her in their home. About how we would all shower her in love, show her a new life, show her the world. Show her what she was deprived of. We would show her things she missed out on in life. Like a fun-filled summer, new experiences, holiday and birthday celebrations. She missed out on having friends, feeling secure and safe, and having family to love her. It was satisfying to know it was somebody else's turn to receive what I was once given by these very people.

***

Throwing two logs into the wheelbarrow, the smile couldn't leave his face. "I can't even imagine it. Her being back in our lives," Luke said, happily stuck on the news about his young sister.

"Honestly, I can't either," I smiled, grabbing another log from our wood pile.

The sun was sitting low, just barely peeking over the trees. Everyone was seated around the bonfire we started a couple minutes ago. Our firepit was at the end of our backyard, near the fence of pines and maples. It was too far from our wood pile stacked on the side of our house. So, we were loading up our wheelbarrow.

From my left, he threw one more log into the wheelbarrow. "Okay, that should be enough," he said, signaling me to stop.

When I stretched and turned to face him, his lips were still tilted up. Damn, I loved how giddy he was! It made my smile grow into a wide grin. "I love seeing you this happy and excited. I love seeing everyone so happy and excited," I said, nodding behind him towards where everyone was seated around the fire. "It's long overdue, but her coming home... it's what all of you need."

Stepping closer to me, he grabbed my hand and looked down at it as he mindlessly played with my ring. "I just can't believe it. It's all because of you."

"What can I say, I'm a badass."

Chuckling through his grin, Luke looked back up to me. But immediately, his eyes jetted behind me and his smile dropped. Face going blank, his hand fiddling over mine stopped. What was he looking at? I looked behind me and froze. My heart dropped at the visitor standing a few yards behind me. Jackson.

We did not expect him. Yes, to be fair, we always knew he would return someday. We just didn't know when. Considering how long it's been, seeing him stunned me. The last time we saw him was just after I moved back to Ohio. Through everything was finished with the cult at that time, there was a lot of cleaning up to be done. A lot of terrible people to be located, a lot of sects to be shut down. A lot of information to uncover, and a lot of kidnapped and brainwashed girls who needed help and a home. Jackson was helping the FBI wrap up all those loose ends.

Clearly, Jackson must be finished with his work with them. And for a moment, I could only stare at him. My heart was sinking and flying, my nerves and muscles on edge. Not because I miss him (even though I do). Not because seeing him brought back so many memories (even though it did). I was anxious and uneasy because I made a decision regarding Jackson in my life. For months now, I knew that whenever he returned, I would have to tell him. Now that it was time, it fucked with my insides.

He stood there, standing straight, shoulders back as always. His hair was slicked back. This time, the longish strands were all black. Not one ounce of brown hair-dye. Other than that, it was the usual picture of him. Jeans, black shirt, and a stone-cold demeanor with amusement in his eyes and warmth.

From the three years he lied about who he was, to the life-threatening shit we've endured, I was still unsure of how I to feel about him. Yet, his words triggered my immediate response.

Catching my eyes, he offered a smirk he couldn't hide. "Sorry to crash your barbeque."

Turning to fully face him, I half shrugged. "Sorry you have nothing better to do."

His smirk grew. "I'm sorry you think that."

I really did miss bantering with him. You know, before I learned the truth about him.

"I take it your time helping the FBI is up?" Luke asked from behind me.

Jackson nodded. "They were as happy to be rid of me as I was of them."

While I was happy to see him, I was also conflicted – and it justified my need to share what I've been wanting to tell him for months. Luke was aware of my need as well. That's why he turned to the wheelbarrow, grabbed the handles, and asked me, "You okay if I run this out to the fire and let you two catch up?"

"Sure sweetie," I said back to him.

Luke retreated to the fire with wheelbarrow. Now, it was just me and daddy dearest! Who never had a problem sharing his stupid opinions. "I still don't like him, but I like him a little better than I did before."

"Funny, I feel the same way about you," I joked.

I wanted to speak with him more privately. So, we walked around to the front of the house. We sat next to each other on the second step of my wooden porch. It faced the curved driveway along with the trees blocking the house from the road. It wasn't that long ago that we would both sit on his porch and talk about whatever.

I'm sure that's what he still wanted. That friendship we once had. Honestly, I wanted it too. And for a good half an hour, that's what we got. Putting what I wanted to tell him on the backburner, we talked about everything. Updated each other on life, laughed, and went on about random stuff. Months apart clearly did us some good. But it wouldn't heal me of all the wounds.

We talked until the only light was from the blue and greying night sky above us. Crickets sang against our words until a natural silence fell between us. Looking up from where I was perched next to him, I sighed and met his eyes. "What do you plan on doing now?"

He was leaning back with his elbows propped on the next step up. "Probably head back east. Because if I tell you that I plan on staying in Ohio, it would make you say what you've been needing to tell me."

My heart jumped and I sat up more. "Tell you what?"

"That you can't have me in your life."

He had me pinned. I decided a few months ago that I could not handle having Jackson in my life. That's what I planned to tell him. It was a hard decision, but a healthy one. God, I'm already sounding like a damn social worker.

His accurate guess made me stand, step off the porch, and face him. "How do you know I was going to tell you that?"

He sat forward, resting his arms on his bent legs. He hummed a tune of amusement. "Because I'm not as retarded as you think I am."

We both were not good with showing emotions. Especially to each other. The only way I managed saying these words was with my eyes on the ground. "I can't forget what you caused, what you did, what you lied about, how you ruined my life," I started softly. "And I can't forget what you did to protect me and save it."

Jackson stood up with a sigh and stepped off the porch. Standing before me, he simply said, "I know."

Standing in the front lawn, facing each other, I looked up into his eyes. "I can't have you in my life for my sake. I'm doing so good right now. I know you wouldn't cause any harm or anything like that, I- I'm just... I'm healing. I'm still healing. I'm still uneasy about all you've done and confused about how I feel about you. One thing that is for sure though is having you here wouldn't make my recovery any easier."

"I know. I understand and it's okay. I don't want forgiveness. I just want you to be safe and happy," he said, partly in a mumble. "You're just... you're my daughter," he said, clamping his lips shut before he could show any emotion. "Is there any chance, even far into the future, where I can come back into your life?"

I looked away, feeling a lump form in my throat. He was my only family. Only real family I had – and we went through so much together. I didn't expect his question, but my answer was immediate. "I don't know. I hope so."

"So do I."

Silence entered the cricket-filled air between us again. He took a deep breath and said, "I'll let you get back to your bonfire." He stepped closer, as if wanting to hug me, and instead rested a hand on my shoulder. He took a long second to speak. "Keep kicking ass and making me proud, okay?"

"I will."

He turned to walk up towards the driveway. I didn't want to be weird or awkward, but I couldn't help myself. After only a few steps, I grabbed his arm and pulled him back into a hug. A very tight hug. He didn't hesitate to wrap his arms around me in return. And though it wasn't spoken, that hug told me he loved me very much.

When I stepped back after our arms slowly dropped, he smiled to me. A very proud smile that I returned to him. No other words were exchanged. He walked up to his truck behind the other vehicles and was gone shortly after. Though I would miss him greatly, there was a sense of peace. Peace in myself and peace in knowing wherever he goes, Jackson would be okay.

The warm night air surrounded me as I walked around the house, nearing the bonfire at the end of our long yard. The flames illuminated everyone sitting around it. Including Luke, who must have seen my shadow enter the backyard. He stood up and neared me, quickly becoming just a figure in the dark. I rolled my eyes and smiled. Either the sweet man was watching for me or he acquired kickass night vision.

He reached me halfway there, making me stop in the middle of the grass. Under the open night sky, he cupped my side. "How did he take it? How are you?"

"For both those questions... surprisingly good." With his arm around me, I rested my cheek against his shoulder. It allowed me to gaze out towards the fire. "That's one hell of a sexy fire. Looks good."

"Thank you," he said, kissing the side of my head.

With his arm around me, I turned inward and pressed myself against his chest. Wrapping my arms around him, I stared up into his beautiful green eyes. It was the most incredible feeling – and would always be. I was home when I was pressed close to him. "You're amazing," I whispered up to him.

Holding me close, he brushed our lips gently together, and whispered back, "You're pretty awesome yourself. More than that. Because I can't seem to stop falling deeper in love with you."

Heart tumbling in my chest, I let out an uneven breath. Until my breath stayed hitched when he pressed his sweet lips against mine. Moving my lips gently against his, I quickly got lost in him. His arms, his warmth, his scent....

I don't know how I ended up with such a beautiful man. The man was once my stepfather, once my opponent, once someone who didn't believe me. And once he did believe me, it was nothing but an uphill battle. Of bullets, my crazy mother, a gang, and a cult. Not to mention three years of separation, ambushes, a few hostages here and there.... I mean come on guys, the chances of us getting this far... it was insane. We should be dead, but instead, we were alive – and living a beautiful life together.

For that, I truly believe this: I am the luckiest girl in the world.

So, for how long you losers have been listening, take something away from this.... Not sure what, don't really care. You had to be listening for some reason so you can figure that out on your own. The only thing I really cared about was the man of my dreams I was kissing and the future we had together. And pizza of course.

Under the warm night sky, I continued meshing my lips sweetly against Luke's. Getting swallowed in his scent and strong chest. His arms around my back tightened, allowing me to get completely lost in—

"Jesus, I figure you guys would learn after the first five fucking times I caught you."

Breaking from our kiss, Francis was nearing us with a smirk – and past us heading up towards the house. We didn't hear him approach. Then again, as you guys know, we never do.

*The End*

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After all this time... Albany and Luke finally have their ending! I'm sorry this last chapter took longer. I honestly wanted it to be just right because I've wondered about this chapter for years now (yes, YEARS) so I wanted to get their ending as best as I could. It's a weird feeling, writing this now, being done with this story. I've been writing this series since I was 16. I'm 23 now. Anyway, if you guys are emotional, you aren't alone. I loved writing this story, loved writing for Albany. Please read the authors note I have after this chapter. 

And if you don't, just know you reading this series... has meant so much to me. You guys have been on this ride with me for so long and now, it's finally complete. I cannot thank you enough for reading a story that I hold so dear to me. Thank you for taking time out of your day to see through Albany's eyes and follow her story with me. Thank you so much.