Epilogue
One Month Later
Katie hosted a fun barbeque with the sheriff’s friends and members of the police department. Sheriff Scott had fully recovered, but was still on leave for another couple of weeks before returning to full active duty. The house was bustling with laughter and good food.
McGaven had manned the grill and was cracking jokes. Denise was making sure everyone had something to drink. Many things can happen without a moment’s notice, but living in the moment and cherishing every second was what counted.
The sheriff was clearly enjoying himself while on temporary leave—he told stories to some of the deputies and seemed to have a new outlook on life. He would be more than okay.
Katie had stepped outside and walked to her back gate. She had hung Buck’s military dog tags there; she would always remember him. He had so much strength, but not enough to go on with his life.
John joined her.
“You’re not having another burger?” she joked.
“I’m waiting for the last one to settle. I didn’t know McGaven could grill up a storm.”
She chuckled. “I think it’s one of his superpowers.”
“The sheriff looks great.”
“He’s definitely as tough as they come. It was scary there for a moment when his heart stopped before everyone arrived.” She hated remembering that and how it had felt, but it made her even more grateful for what she had.
“What was that about Buck’s brother I heard someone talking about?”
“Oh, the DA’s office is looking into his case. His life sentence will be changed to twenty years… and in a few months he’ll be out.”
“That’s good news. But, wow, he’s lost everyone.”
“It’s going to be difficult, but I have a feeling he’s going to be all right,” she said. “And when they begin building the training centers again they’re going to dedicate it to Meredith and Misty with a symbol of the half hearts making one big heart.”
John nodded. “That’s perfect.”
She smiled, brushed his arm. “Thank you for always being there.”
“Just when I think I know everything about you… you go and surprise me again. I’ve never met anyone quite like you.”
Katie looked into his intense, loving eyes and knew he loved her and that he would do anything to keep her safe, even if it meant giving his own life. “John Blackburn,” she said.
“Yes.”
“I’m so in love with you.”
His demeanor changed slightly and he held her tight, kissing her deeply. And then he said, “Katie Scott… I’m deeply in love with you too.”