Daphne

For the first time in what felt like forever, I felt free.

Logan and I had settled into a beautiful routine. Every night, we'd snuggle with the kids, their sleepy warmth a comforting reminder of the family we had built together. And every morning, we'd wake up before anyone else, sharing quiet breakfasts and stolen moments of intimacy. Those early hours became my favourite part of the day, a peaceful interlude before the house came alive with activity.

Rebecca had been a constant presence lately, her happiness infectious. Ever since I asked Logan to find work for William here at the safehouse, she'd been glowing like never before. Seeing her so happy and complete filled me with a sense of contentment. She was always busy now, helping William settle in, and it was clear that her love for him brought her a deep, fulfilling joy.

I had plans to teach the kids some survival skills—knowledge from my past life that I wanted to pass on to them. Logan had errands to run, so it would just be me and Ryan. I looked forward to our time together, hoping to share some of the skills that had kept me alive for so long.

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As we reached the back of the garden, I turned to the kids, who were practically bouncing with excitement. "Alright, everyone, today we're going to learn some important survival skills. Who's ready to build a fire?"

Their hands shot up, and they shouted in unison, "Me!"

Ryan laughed, ruffling Liam's hair. "Alright, champ, let's see what you've got."

It has been awfully long since me and Ryan have done anything together. And the kids love him! 

I smiled, feeling a rush of affection for this time together.  It had been too long since I'd spent quality time like this. We divided the tasks, with Ryan helping the kids gather sticks and tinder while I showed them how to use flint and steel.

"Can I try, Daphne?", Jamie asked, his eyes wide with curiosity.

"Of course," I said, handing over the flint. "Just remember, it's all about striking it sharply."

The kids took turns, their faces lighting up with joy whenever they managed to create a spark. Ryan and I exchanged a smile, enjoying the moment. Next, we moved on to shelter building. The kids raced around, gathering branches and leaves, their laughter echoing through the garden.

Ryan and I worked side by side, seamlessly coordinating our efforts. We showed them how to construct a simple lean-to, and the kids eagerly jumped in to help. It was messy and a bit chaotic, but their enthusiasm was infectious.

As we moved on to orienteering, I handed out compasses and maps. "Okay, everyone, let's see if you can find north," I said, watching as they fumbled with the compasses, giggling and pointing in different directions.

Ryan nudged me, his eyes twinkling, laughing, "Jamie has potential but Ava and Liam.... so clueless".

I laughed, nodding. "Ava would probably get us all killed if she led us, out there in the real world".

The rest of the morning flew by. We foraged for berries, practiced tying knots, and even tracked a few animal prints. The kids were full of questions and jokes, their energy never waning. Ryan and I shared stories from our past, reconnecting in a way that felt natural and easy.

By the time we finished, the kids were tired but happy, their faces smeared with dirt and berry juice. As we headed back to the safehouse, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Not only had we taught them valuable skills, but we'd also created memories I knew they'd cherish.

Ryan clapped me on the shoulder. "Thanks for this, Daphne. It's been great."

I smiled, feeling the bond between us strengthen. "It really has. We should do it more often."

The kids ran ahead, their laughter ringing out as they raced to the house. Watching them, I felt a profound sense of peace. This was my family, my home, and I couldn't be happier.

I sent Liam and Ava upstairs to have their baths, and Jamie helped Liam get dressed while I tended to Ava.

Once Ava was dried off and dressed, she looked up at me with her big, innocent eyes. "Daphne, can I have a glass of juice?"

"Of course, sweetie. Go downstairs and wait for me near the kitchen. I just need to collect Liam's dirty clothes."

As Ava skipped off, I made my way to the boys' room. Liam and Jamie were still reeling with happiness from our day out. "You boys did a fantastic job today," I told them, smiling as their faces lit up with pride.

Suddenly, a scream pierced the air, followed by a loud tumble. My heart dropped. "Ava!" I sprinted towards the stairs, my mind racing with fear.

OH NO!! OH MY GOD! AVA! I AM COMING!

At the bottom of the stairs, Ava lay there, screaming in pain. I stopped short, panicked. "Don't touch her!" I shouted, the fear in my voice making everyone freeze. "She might have broken a bone."

Ryan, his voice calm, as he hovered near Ava, "Daphne, take a deep breath. Panicking won't help."

I quickly apologised, pushing the fear aside. "I'm sorry. Ava, it's okay, I'm here." I rushed downstairs and I knelt beside her, trying to calm her down. "Where does it hurt, sweetie?"

"My leg," she sobbed, clutching it.

I carefully checked her leg, relieved to find no obvious signs of a break. "Can you try to move it a little for me?"

She managed a small movement, and I let out a breath I hadn't realised I was holding. "It's not broken. Thank goodness." I scooped her up gently, holding her close. Tears stung my eyes, feeling helpless as she whimpered in pain.

I would do anything to make the pain go away, gem. Stay strong.

Liam and Jamie rushed downstairs, their faces pale with fear. "Is Ava okay?" Liam asked, his voice trembling.

"She's going to be okay," I reassured them, stroking their hair. "She's just hurt her leg a bit." Rebecca, held their hands to comfort them.

Ryan placed a hand on my shoulder. "Let's get her into the living room. We'll get some painkillers and check her over properly."

A flashback of the time when they had to stitch Ava's leg hit me, and I felt a wave of trust again. Nodding, I carried her into the living room, everyone rallying around to help. We tried to cheer Ava up, and she started to smile through her tears.

"Well, at least I got down the stairs faster," she joked, a small grin breaking through.

My beautiful, sweet, brave Ava. Still funny, no matter what. I love you.

We couldn't help but laugh, wiping away my tears, I choked, "You sure did, my brave gem".

As the others brought painkillers and gently checked Ava for any other injuries, I turned to them, feeling a mix of guilt and gratitude. "I'm sorry for shouting earlier. I was just so scared."

Rebecca, squeezed my hand. "It's a normal reaction, Daphne. We're just glad she's okay."

We all took turns comforting Ava, making sure she knew she was safe and loved. Despite the scare, the day ended with a sense of relief and an even stronger bond between all of us.

As everyone gathered around Ava in the living room, Jamie and Liam suddenly dashed off upstairs. A few moments later, they returned, each carrying a stack of books.

"Look, Ava!" Jamie said, flipping through the pages to show her the colourful pictures. "These are our favourite stories. They'll make you feel better."

Liam joined in, holding up another book. "Yeah, and this one has the best pictures. You'll love it!"

I smiled, feeling a surge of emotion. These boys were the sweetest, most caring kids in the world. Their strong bond with Ava was heart-warming, and I couldn't help but get a little teary-eyed watching them.

They are so brave. I fucking admire them both for being brave, strong and smart. 

After a while, Ava looked tired, so I came up with an idea. "Hey, boys, why don't you get some paper and crayons and make a get well soon card for Ava? I bet that would keep her happy."

Their eyes lit up, and they rushed to the table, eagerly grabbing the supplies and starting to draw. A few minutes later, Ava spoke up, her voice still a bit shaky but determined.

"I want to make a get well soon card for myself too," she said, a small smile playing on her lips.

I giggled at her response, feeling a wave of affection for her. "Alright, sweetie. Do you think you can move over to the table?"

She nodded and carefully got up, limping cautiously to the table. "I feel better already," she said, settling down with the crayons.

I watched her with pride, her resilience shining through. "That's my girl," I said softly, feeling a sense of relief and joy wash over me.

The boys were already engrossed in their drawings, and I joined them, offering suggestions and encouragement. The room filled with the sound of happy chatter and the scratch of crayons on paper. Despite the earlier scare, the atmosphere was warm and filled with love.

Ava held up her card, a colourful mess of scribbles and hearts. "Look, Daphne! There's me, Liam and Jamie."

I chuckled, my heart swelling with pride. "It's beautiful, Ava. You're so strong and brave."

As the boys continued to work on their cards, I sat back and watched them, feeling incredibly grateful for this little family. No matter what challenges we faced, moments like this made it all worthwhile.

Liam lifted his card up, waving it around, "There's Wheels and Ava inside it!".  Ava glanced up at his card, feeling special, "I love it Liam!! Can I add Wheels to my card too?"

Liam giggled. "Yes, then we'll have two Wheels!"

Meanwhile, Jamie was engrossed in creating a card that spelled "Get Well Soon" in bubble font. I was impressed by his attention to detail and creativity. "Jamie, that looks amazing. You're quite the artist."

He beamed at the compliment, continuing to carefully colour in his letters.

Just then, Rebecca walked in with a cup of tea and handed it to me. I smiled gratefully and took a sip, savouring the warmth. "Thanks, Becks. Sit down, join us."

She settled next to me, looking around at the kids with a soft smile. I took the opportunity to ask, "How are things going with you and William?"

Her face lit up, a glow of happiness radiating from her. "I finally understand what you and Logan share. I can't stop thinking about him, Daphne. And he gave me this," she said, showing me a pretty locket around her neck.

I reached out to touch the locket, admiring its delicate beauty. "Rebecca, I'm so happy for you. You deserve this."

She blushed, her eyes sparkling. "Thank you, Daphne. It's all so new and wonderful."

We sat together, watching the kids draw and laugh. Liam and Ava were now both busy adding Wheels to their cards, giggling and chatting animatedly.

Ava held up her updated card, showing off her handiwork. "Look, Daphne! Now there's two Wheels!"

I laughed, feeling a deep sense of contentment. "It is perfect, just like you gem."

Rebecca and I shared a look of mutual understanding and happiness. In that moment, surrounded by love and laughter, I knew that despite all the challenges, we all had something special.

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The kids were in high spirits, building a fort in the living room. Despite Ava's limp, she was right there with them, her laughter ringing out as Jamie pretended to be a monster. Their giggles and shrieks of joy filled the room, a testament to their resilience and ability to find happiness in the simplest of things.

Jamie, growling and stomping around, declared, "I'm the monster, and I'm going to get you all!"

I crept up behind him, my own growl matching his. "Or maybe I'm the monster!"

Jamie's eyes widened in mock fear before he bolted towards the fort. The kids screamed with laughter, diving into their makeshift hideout. We all had a blast, the living room echoing with our playful chaos.

Logan rushed into the room, looking slightly alarmed. "Where is Ava?" he called out, scanning the fort.

Ava limped out with a big smile on her face. Logan immediately went to her, kissing her forehead and checking her leg. "Does it hurt anywhere else, sweetheart?"

Did he just call her a sweetheart? That's fucking adorable.

Ava shook her head, still beaming. "Just my leg a little bit, but it's okay."

I couldn't help but admire the love and care Logan showed for Ava. It warmed my heart to see how much he adored her. Jamie and Liam came out of the fort, proudly showing Logan their get well soon cards. "Look what we made for Ava!"

Logan was impressed, his eyes lighting up. "These are fantastic! How about we all have some custard and cake?"

Ava's eyes sparkled. "I want you to pick me up, my leg is hurting."

Logan lifted her up effortlessly, and we all made our way to the kitchen. There, Harry, one of the kitchen crew, served us all plates of custard and cake. The kids eagerly dug in, their earlier excitement spilling over into their meal.

As we sat down, I turned to Logan. "How did your errands go?"

Logan took a spoonful of custard before answering. "I had to check the imports at one of the docks. We've secured a cargo of textile materials and leather goods from Pakistan."

I nodded, not surprised. "Pakistan has always been good at manufacturing."

Logan grinned. "Did you know that all the FIFA footballs used to be made there?"

I smiled at the fun fact, enjoying the lightness of the moment. "I didn't know that, that is actually interesting."

We continued chatting, the atmosphere in the kitchen warm and filled with love. As I watched Logan interact with the kids, my heart swelled with gratitude. 

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As the kids devoured their custard, they quickly ran back into their fort, eager to continue their play. I followed them, laughing at their energy. Logan kissed my cheek, saying he would join soon but needed to make a phone call to start distributing the materials. I smiled at him and joined the kids, ready to dive back into their world of imagination.

The kids were having a blast. Ava, always the inventive one, pretended to sleep, claiming she was a patient. Jamie and Liam took on the roles of her doctors. Suddenly, Ava let out a loud fart, stinking up the fort. The boys bolted out, their faces scrunched up in exaggerated disgust.

I laughed so hard my sides hurt. "Ava, you need to eat less baked beans!"

What a stinker!

Ava giggled, her eyes twinkling. "It's only a fart. Everyone does it."

She walked over to me, looking up with her big, innocent eyes. "I still want that orange juice, Daphne."

I realised I'd completely forgotten. Hugging her tightly, I whispered, "I love you, Ava. I'm so proud of you for being brave. That orange juice is coming right up."

Ava hugged me back, her little arms squeezing me tight. "I love you too," she said before dashing back into the fort. She resumed her role as the patient, delighting in the game with Jamie and Liam.

I headed into the kitchen and poured a glass of fresh orange juice. As I did, I struck up a conversation with Harry. He was still young and seemed shy. "How's your day going, Harry?" I asked.

He shifted uncomfortably, "I don't really like talking to people, Daphne. It's why Logan put me on kitchen duty. No disrespect"

I nodded, respecting his honesty. "If you ever want to talk or need anything, I'm here for you."

Harry appreciated my offer and thanked me. Just then, Jamie ran into the kitchen, grabbing my hand. "Come on, Daphne!"

I grabbed the orange juice and followed him back to the living room. As I entered, something felt off. Liam stood by Ava, looking concerned. "Ava isn't waking up. She needs to wake up so we can swap. I want to be the patient." A few others, gathered around the fort waiting for me to inspect her.

Jamie quickly grabbed Liam, urging him to wait and quiet down. I froze for a second, unable to process what was happening. I put the glass aside, laughing nervously. "Ava is a prankster. She'll wake up."

But as I touched her, feeling her cold skin, a chill ran through me. Frantically, I shook her, desperately trying to wake her up. 

Nah she'll wake up. Everyone's stressing for no reason. No chance, she's just dreaming. She had painkillers, she's probably just drowsy. Her cheeks are still warm. She is fine. A heavy sleeper, my gem is.  I will wait till you wake up.

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Logan

Someone brought me over, and I rushed into the room, my heart pounding. "What the hell is going on?" I demanded, my eyes scanning the room until I saw Daphne, frozen in place.

I walked slowly behind her, my steps heavy with dread. "Daphne, what's wrong? Talk to me."

She didn't move, just stared at Ava with an emotionless expression. My stomach twisted as I knelt beside Ava, checking her pulse. My heart sank, and a sad gasp escaped my lips as tears began to fall.

I glanced around, locking eyes with Rebecca. Without words, I conveyed the devastating truth: Ava was no more. Rebecca moved to comfort Daphne, but Daphne pushed her away, her voice steady. "She literally just asked for a glass of orange juice 10 minutes ago. She will wake up. I will wait here."

My Queen, she is not going to wake up... she's gone. Ava is gone. I can't believe this, how could she be gone? I need to be strong, for Daph, for the boys, for our little Ava - she wouldn't like to see us upset... but my heart keeps breaking non stop..

The room filled with sad sobs, especially from Rebecca. Daphne, her eyes still fixed on Ava, asked, "Logan, why are they crying?"

I reached out for her hand, whispering softly, "My darling, she's gone."

Daphne pulled her hand away and snapped, "I fucking told you she is still here. She's just dreaming. Everybody here knows she's a heavy sleeper."

Daph.. please don't do this. You'll make it harder for yourself...

I looked at her, heartbroken by her denial, then at little Ava, perfectly still with her golden locks framing her face. Burying my head in my hands, I broke down softly, knowing I'd never see her blue, round eyes again.

I love you so much, I will always remember you. I will promise to look after Daph and the boys. I will not let you down, my angel. I love you, you just wait for us. Wait for all of us. I never used to believe in happy endings but because of you, our true ending, it will be together, reunited. It has to be. I promise you, this is not the end, Ava. Just wait for us.

I kissed her forehead, as tears fell from my face, helplessly and slowly pulled away as I watched the colour drain from her face. Desperate to keep some semblance of normalcy, I called for Liam and Jamie. "Come sit nearer to Ava."

Jamie understood immediately, running to Rebecca and crying in her arms. Liam, however, still pleaded with Ava. "Wake up, Ava. I want you to be my doctor."

Noah picked up Liam, trying to distract him. I looked at Daphne again, still frozen, lost in her grief.

A few minutes later, Ryan rushed in, tears streaming down his face. "Let me see her," he cried, his voice breaking.

I stood up, understanding how much Ryan and Ava meant to each other. He helped Daphne raise her, and his pain was difficult to watch. Ryan cried, then turned to Daphne, trying to reach her, but she remained unresponsive.

Ryan's attempts to talk to her were met with silence. He looked at me, his eyes full of anguish and helplessness. I could do nothing but stand there, feeling the weight of our loss pressing down on all of us. The room was filled with the heart-wrenching sound of our collective grief, each sob a painful reminder of the bright light we had lost. Daphne like this made it even worse. We were all shattered, trying to come to terms with a loss that felt impossible to accept.