Epilogue
Nine months later, the West Quay skyline sparkles through our apartment’s bulletproof windows, the city’s hum a soft backdrop to the life Connor and I have built.
I’m curled up on our couch, Swift in my lap, my laptop open just ahead of my darling stuffy as I type notes for my new investigation—a corruption scandal in the city’s port authority.
This time, I’m working hand-in-hand with Robert, my boss and former Night Ops Guard, his gruff voice a constant on my secure line, ensuring I stay safe.
Haynes’s trial ended in a life sentence, no parole, his cartel network exposed by my articles and the flash drive’s evidence.
The fallout was seismic—Mallen’s cartel imploded, rival factions tearing it apart until a new syndicate swept in, leaving no trace of the threat that once hunted me.
I’m free, truly free, and it’s because of Connor, Robert, and the fire that kept me going.
Connor’s just back from a mission with Cole and Henry, his gear bag by the door, his red puppy-and-kitten pajamas swapped for one of his classic issue black t-shirts. He’s sprawled beside me, his hair mussed, his hand resting on my knee, that Daddy warmth making my heart skip.
“You’re working too hard, Little Scoop,” Connor says, his voice teasing but soft, his eyes sparkling as he steals a sip of my iced coffee. “Save some energy for our vacation. Bahamas, tomorrow. You, me, sand, no trouble.”
I giggle, leaning into him, Swift’s beak brushing his arm.
“No trouble? With me and you int town?” I say, my Little side bubbling up.
Connor laughs, a deep rumble, and pulls me closer, his lips brushing my forehead. “Good point,” Connor says, chuckling. “We’re gonna tan, swim, and keep those peli-corn drawings away from the water. But trouble? No, not this time. I hope!”
I smile, my heart full, thinking of our first vacation together—white beaches, turquoise waves, just us, no cartels, no hit lists.
Three years ago, that kiss under the streetlight wasn’t right.
I ran, scared of what we could be.
But now, this moment—Connor’s arms around me, our apartment a true home, my story changing the world—it’s perfect, a moment that’ll last a lifetime.
My journalist fire still burns, but with Robert’s guidance and Connor’s love, I’m unstoppable, safe, loved.
“Love you, Daddy,” I murmur, my eyes heavy, Swift clutched tight, my laptop safely tucked away.
“Love you too, Little Scoop,” Connor says, his voice thick, real.
As I drift, the city’s glow fading, I know we’re a perfect match—his Guard duty, my truth-chasing, our silly pajamas, all our love.
The Bahamas await, and with Connor by my side, I’m ready for anything, trouble or not…