Maris, if you’re up there, you have to know I love her. And the child she’s carrying. I know I’m not the man you would have chosen for Chrysabelle. I know this isn’t the life you wanted her to have, but I’m not leaving her. Ever. I also know I don’t deserve her any more than I deserve this second chance, but I’m not going to waste it.

If you could have gotten to know me… He shook his head. This was stupid, talking to a woman who wasn’t there. Who probably would have done everything in her power to keep him away from her daughter. Including trying to stake him.

He lifted his eyes to the sky again. I will protect them with everything I have until the end of my days. I promise you that.

Thunder rumbled, long and hard enough to shake the car. Lightning shattered the Western horizon but the rain held off. The corners of his mouth turned up with a hint of a smile.

Chrysabelle came jogging back. “I think it’s about to pour.”

“Did you say everything you wanted to?”

She nodded, but her eyes were sad. “I wish she was still here.”

“Me, too.”

Surprise replaced the sorrow. “You do? Even though you know she probably wouldn’t have liked you very much.”

“I could have changed her mind.” He reached for the car door.

Thunder rumbled over their heads. She glanced at the sky. “There’s a storm coming.”

He nodded, his gaze traveling to her belly. “There always will be. And just like always, we’ll weather it.” He opened the car door just as the first fat drops of rain pelted them.

She slid into the car, but he hesitated, flicking his gaze skyward once again. No matter what Maris thought, no matter who came after them, no matter what price he had to pay, he would keep Chrysabelle and his child safe.

It wasn’t a question of if. Trouble would find them again. And until it did, he’d be waiting. Watching. Prepared to fight. Ready to protect.

From this day forward, last blood would always be his.

Always.

The End