Epilogue
Four weeks later . . .
Di walked out of the DA’s office with Jarek on one side and Rocco on the other, squinting against the burning July sun. “I can’t believe it’s over.”
“Hey, I told you everything would work out. I knew Gemma Holland wouldn’t press charges.” Jarek hugged her, then caught her hand as they descended the stairs. Rocco trotted beside them. “You never have to hide your past ever again.”
“It feels strange,” she admitted. “It’s been second nature for me to hold back.
” As much as she had appreciated Jarek’s and Michelle’s unwavering support, she hadn’t known what to expect.
Gemma Holland in the DA’s office had declined to press charges, citing the fact that she was a juvenile who’d been subjected to abuse.
Her actions had been deemed self-defense along with the defense of others, regarding her sister. She was free to go.
Michelle had tried to talk her out of confessing at first but then had agreed to go along with whatever Di wanted, supporting her decision.
She was thrilled at how Michelle welcomed Jarek into Di’s life with open arms, whispering, “Thank you for loving my sister,” in a voice that was loud enough for Di to hear.
Not subtle, but sweet. Incredibly sweet.
“I’m glad you were cleared of all charges too.
” She had been upset to learn Jarek had been investigated by the department’s internal affairs division for the actions he’d taken while being off duty.
She’d worried teaming up with her might hurt his career, but it hadn’t.
Ray Bond had survived but remained in jail pending the outcome of the investigation.
Buck Ross was also in jail. Because Jarek had been involved in the crime and was a witness to everything that had gone down in the warehouse, he wasn’t allowed to assist Andrews in making the case against Ray and Buck.
“I wasn’t worried.” Jarek kissed her cheek. “Working as a detective isn’t as important as being with you.”
“That’s sweet, but the world needs more good cops like you.
” Her attitude toward law enforcement had changed.
Going through the process of taking accountability for her actions had provided a different perspective.
Everyone, from Jarek’s captain to the DA’s office, had treated her with kindness and understanding.
The experience had humbled her, making her realize how off base she’d been during the years prior.
“How about a walk through Downing Park? Rocco needs the exercise,” Jarek suggested. “It’s a beautiful day. We may as well enjoy it.”
“Sure.” She was grateful he understood her need to spend time outside, a holdover from her time living on the streets.
She glanced down at Rocco who gazed up at her with his dark-brown eyes.
The morning after the warehouse incident, she’d gone to the emergency veterinary clinic to check on Rocco’s injury.
She’d offered to pay the bill and had been given permission to take Rocco home with her.
No one had argued based on the fact that Buck’s request for bail had been denied.
Having a dog while living in an apartment wasn’t easy, but they were managing. Thankfully, Rocco wasn’t as much of an attack dog as she’d originally feared. The path to Rocco’s heart was through peanut butter treats, which she was going through at an alarming rate. But she didn’t mind.
“We can stop for lunch at that café.” She grinned. “The owner hasn’t held the gunfire against us.”
“He shouldn’t; it was hardly our fault.”
The courthouse was only a few blocks from the park, so they walked. Di allowed Jarek to hold her hand, even though she tended to be shy about their relationship. Rocco lifted his head to sniff the air. He loved taking walks.
“Have you spoken to Rex lately?” Jarek asked. “You mentioned you might have to leave for an assignment.”
“I spoke to him yesterday.” She glanced at Rocco, then at Jarek. “He’s going to ask Cam Walker to take the case.”
“Are you okay with that?” He frowned. “I don’t want you to give up your career for me.”
“I’m fine. Rex has been very understanding. I’ll take the next one. Don’t forget, you agreed to watch Rocco for me when I need to leave town.” A month ago, she’d have jumped at the chance to dive back into the action. Keeping busy had been her salvation. Now, she was finding time to enjoy life.
Specifically summer days with Jarek.
“I don’t mind watching Rocco.”
They fell silent as they entered the park. A warm summer breeze rustled the leaves on the trees, and she lifted her face to the sun. “This is perfect.”
“I’m glad.” Jarek still held her hand and tugged her toward a park bench.
She and Rocco crossed toward it. Rather than taking a seat, Jarek dropped to one knee and held up a diamond engagement ring.
The diamond reminded her of the day he’d given her the nickname.
“I love you. Di, will you please marry me?”
“Marry?” His proposal caught her off guard. But then she realized she should have expected it. Jarek was absolutely the marrying type. She’d never wanted a family, but looking at him now, she could admit that was wrong. This was exactly what she wanted.
Jarek. A family. Kids. Rocco. The whole shebang.
“Please, Di. We don’t have to get married right away; you can take as much time as you need.” His gaze held hers. “But please agree to be my wife.”
“Yes, Jarek.” When he looked surprised, she laughed and pulled him to his feet, not giving the diamond a second thought. Throwing her arms around him, she repeated, “Yes. I’ll marry you. And we don’t have to wait that long,” she teased. “I can’t love you any more than I do right now.”
“Thank heavens,” he whispered. Then he kissed her. Rocco nudged them as if he wanted to be included. She pulled a peanut butter treat from her pocket and held it out for him. He swallowed it in one gulp. With that done, she kissed Jarek again.
When they needed to come up for air, Jarek looked deeply into her eyes. “If you don’t like diamonds, you can pick something else.”
“I love it. My namesake, remember?” She leaned back and offered her left hand so he could slip the engagement ring on her finger. “It’s beautiful.”
“Not as beautiful as you.” He kissed her scarred cheek, then captured her mouth with his. Her heart swelled with gratitude over the way God had pulled her out of the darkness and into the light.
Bringing her and Jarek together, forever.