(alternate beginning)

-3 Days Later-

Hope's POV

"One, two," I say counting out loud, trying to make sure I have all the kids, "three," I tap Julie on the head as she tries to duck under me. I huff flusteredly as I look back at my kids. Where was I? "Okay one," I say looking at Christen and mentally checking her off my list. "Two." I say to JJ checking her off as well. "Th-" I look around trying to find-ugh she's gone! "Car!" I letting the nervousness sound in my voice. She looks up from the plane ticket she's reading. "Where's the little one?"

"The little one?" she repeats confused. I look at her unimpressed. Realization springs into her eyes and begins to comb through the lobby in careful search of Mal with her eyes. "Where did she go? She was right here when I got the tickets out!"

"Mama-"

"Not now JJ." says Carli cutting her off. "Where is Alex? Hope you know we have four kids not three right?" She continues to look around the room for the girls.

"Yes I know that." I huff. "I also know Alex will get on the bus. I don't have to worry about leaving her." I scan the room again before finally landing on the small figure that is Mallory Pugh. I narrow my eyes in her direction and walk over. I take her arm roughly making her jump in surprise. "You don't go anywhere without permission." I tell her lowly. "C'mon." I bring her back to our little group and hold her hand tightly in mine. I kneel down and look her in the eyes, "You're stuck with me until you get on your plane. Do you understand me?"

In a small voice she says, "Yes ma'am." I nod and stand back up to talk to Carli. I turn back to where her bags are but find no Carli. Damn I lost her too. I feel a tug on my hand so I turn to Mal. "She's over there." she says pointing over to where she's standing with Alex. Carli drags Al over and glares at her.

"You were supposed to be down here ten minutes ago Alex." scolds Carli. Al rolls her eyes in response.

"No." I say sternly. "Drop the attitude." Alex looks down embarrassed.

"I'm sorry." she sighs. "I didn't mean to be disrespectful. I'm used to not thinking about that."

"You need to start." instructs Carli shortly. "You're staying with us until you leave."

"But Carl! That's not fair!" she protest raising her voice a bit. Carli pops her mouth as a warning. "Ow." she mumbles feeling her lips. Mal hides behind me nervously. I sigh and pick her up placing her on my hip. I kiss her temple as she nuzzles her head into my neck. "I won't be able to see Tobin, Allie and Kelley go."

"Getting to go by yourself is a privilege and you lost it for today."