JACE

JACE

I sail to Alodia. The boat treads the Black Sea. The moon casts glittery shadows atop it. I wonder if this is a metaphor. Or am I taking something simple and complexing it? The light prevailing within darkness speaks volumes. Does this mean the negativity will cease and allow positivity? Will life become easier? Have I made it through the rough patch? I hope so. Madi and I deserve bliss. Maybe isolating ourselves from America will bring peace? 

The Mafia situation is under control as long as everyone evades America. I'm the only one allowed to visit due to my guardian satellite. I need to scan everyone's fingerprints, so they're added to its database. I'll have to meet with NASA to discuss this. Until then, I have to focus on getting home. I have to get to her. 

We have so much to sort out. The well-being of our families. My mother's one-on-one talk. I believe our relatives will bond on the island. My mother usually keeps her word.

The wedding has to be discussed. It's now 5 days away. Most importantly, the venue. I know the perfect spot. A stone arena built into the side of a mountain. It has a dreamland view of the sea and endless space. Perfect for the ceremony. Madi told me she wants a tent involved. The reception can be held within one. A castle tent fit for a queen. I love spoiling her. 

The ship automatically anchors onto the beach. I descend and stride to the main house. My family will be here tomorrow. I'll have to tell Madi about the visit. I enter the mansion. All of the lights are off.

I have no trouble navigating. I know this palace like the back of my hand. I could walk around blindfolded. I wonder which room she's in. Mine...or a guest room? I would check each one, but there are guests here. We're not alone. It'd be rude to wake my company in the dead of night. 

I travel to the kitchen and begin climbing the back staircase. I only take a few steps. A noise stops me. The back door. It opens....someone is entering. I climb down the steps.

Every bone in my body rattles. I know it's her. I can make her out through the night's shadows, even from this distance. My little angel. My light in the darkness. She halts by the door. I swear I see her navy eyes clear as day. Can she see mine? A few moments pass. I'm skeptical if she's moved on. Has she called off the wedding? Did the meeting with her crew go wrong? Have I lost her? 

Madi steps forward little by little. There's hesitation in her movements. I sense her uncertainty. I walk her way, planning to meet her halfway. My baby jets to me, wrapping her arms around my neck and digging her face into my chest. My veins electrify. The oddest goosebumps I've ever had jolt my body. There's no magnet in the room, yet every inch of hair on my body stands. 

I lift her into a tighter hug. "We need to talk." She grabs my wrists and tug, signaling me to release her. I lower her to the floor. "Let's go for a walk."

"Whatever you want."

She twiddles her thumbs while walking to the back door. I follow. The moon is huge tonight. The pale light bathes the ultra-green grass. I realize she doesn't have on any shoes. Her slim, bare feet scrape across the lawn. "So...I told my mom and my girls. Lily is with me...I think. I hope." My darling stares ahead. Her eyes are the color of crystals under the moonlight. 

"What makes you say that?"

"I'm not as important to her as Jess is. I doubt she'd go against her. Jess will have to pause her company until we find a solution...which isn't fair. I'd hate to force her to do that. She's not on board. Lil will probably leave with her. I wish I could say I'll be fine with my mom by my side...but she isn't taking this well either." There's strain in her voice; Madi sounds exhausted. "No one is being honest...they're tiptoeing instead of telling me the truth." She stops walking to look up at me. Her droopy eyes prove that she's fighting off sleep. I don't like that. "It's a mess...I don't know how we're going to do this." 

I stare at the wedding ring on her finger. Her eyes fall on it too. "We'll have to take it one day at a time."

"And if that doesn't work?" She whimpers.

"It will." I smooch the top of her head. "Don't worry...I have a solution."

Madison leans her head back to peer up at me. "What is it?"

"The guardian satellite. I'll have to add everyone's bio-code for 100% protection." I find this to be the perfect time to mention our visitors. "Including my family. All of you will be here until I settle the adjustment with NASA."

"Your family's here?"

"Not yet...they'll land in the morning."

"Good. I don't want them hurt...despite us getting off to a bad start." Her big heart grounds me. I've never felt so much at home than I do right now. The longing stare we share is similar to sign language... the only difference is our eyes speak. There's no need to say the three words, we both know.

Her drowsy eyes amplify the nonverbal confession. It's adorable. I laugh at her will to stay awake. "You need rest, stop fighting it."

"I'm not fighting it...there's a lot on my mind."

"Don't stress about it...it'll work out." I swoop her into my arms and carry her inside.

"It's bad luck to carry me across the doorway!"

"Relax." I'm amused by how fast she knocks out. I laid her down and went to change for bed. No more than two minutes passed when I found her soundly asleep. I get into bed and pull her close, resting my nose against her hair. The smell of clouds stain my nostrils. 

I love it. I never want to part from the scent.

Somewhere along the night, Madi spooned me. She holds me from behind. Arms around my chest and legs around my waist. I never thought I'd like the clingy type. I found it annoying before...now it's precious. Maybe because it took a while to get to this phase. Or because I put a ring on it. 

My cell buzzes. It's on the nightstand. I can't move...she has a tight grip. My arms are pinned. My legs caged. I'm not the type to blow off a call...so this is frustrating. I inch my way to the nightstand little by little. I feel like a fish caught in a net. I practically flop like one too. "Don't..." She grumbles in her sleep. 

I give a long huff. "I have to answer."

"Noo..." Her groggy voice is so damn sexy. "Let's stay in bed all day." Madi bites my earlobe.

"We will soon." I wiggle towards the phone.

"Don't you ever sleep in??"

"Only when you drain me..." My voice simmers. This causes her to swallow hard. I love when she does that. Her grip on me lessens. I incapacitated her mind. Good. I flip around, so I'm on top of her. She keeps the same curled hug around my body. It's hotter now. It's no longer spooning...this is a sex position. Madi's navy eyes dare me to hump her. It's incredible how I can read them so well. The naughty way her eyes slit. The thirst. The craving. "You have to wait 5 days." 

Her legs tug me closer to her waist. "Do I?"

"Yes."

"Even if I beg?" She thrust her chin up and close her eyes. Madi imitates the act of being pleasured. The desire is believable. "Please..." Her voice extends the word to a titillating moan. "Please."

"You're getting yourself in trouble."

Her lustful eyes provoke me. "That's what I want."

"I know...but not here..." My hands go to her legs to flatten them to the bed. I do the same with her arms. "Paris. 5 days." I kiss her wedding ring.

My phone chimes. I didn't notice it had stopped. I was preoccupied. This time I get up to go to it. It's Alonso. Oh shit! Did something happen? I press the green button. "What's wrong?"

"I have intel. We need to talk."

Hmm, I wonder what it is. I knew the call was important. "My office, 5 minutes." I hang up.

"Who?-"

"Alonso," I answer before she finishes the sentence.

"Is it something bad?"

I don't know yet. It could be. But I sugarcoat my response to keep her happy. "No...don't worry." I return to the bed, digging my hand into the mattress and bending to smooch her.

Her eyes sparkle. She's high on me. "Hurry back."

"I'll try my best." I peck her lips once more. "Sugar devil." 

I dress, then make my way to my office. I can't appear dominant if I'm wearing pajamas. No one would take me seriously. I don't choose to be formal today. I want to be relaxed. A ribbed polo shirt and dark jeans. I'm shocked to find Paul sitting in the chair before my desk. Alonso stands when he realizes me. This is a show of respect. Something he's done for his previous commanders. I'm baffled at how he's withstanding the pain from his arm. It's wrapped in a cast. 

I close the door and go to sit. Alonso takes a seat only after I do. "The Bacia family has left America. Most likely because of your family's departure."

"Arrange a sea border."

"Already done. 300 of my men are on ship patrol."

"Good."

"They're also monitoring submarine missiles."

Paul double-takes at the news. "Missiles??"

"Nothing should be ruled out. This isn't a low-level mafia. The family has 14 charters throughout the globe." Alonso states.

"And if they deploy missiles??" Paul stresses.

"Then we'll neutralize...and return the gift." He sounds badass and smooth. His saucy accent heightens his words.

"We won't remain in this high state for long."

"Why?" Madi's father stares my way.

"The guardian satellite. It counteracts all hazards. My fingerprints are in its database. Every move I make is tracked. Anything within 200 miles is detected. It's fully weaponized and quicker than the speed of sound. I'll program everyone's bio-code. This will guarantee protection."

Paul nods. "How long until we're in the system?"

"Three days. I'll need permission from NASA to upgrade the satellite."

"That's a load off...we'll be able to enjoy the wedding."

"The day won't be ruined. Trust me."

Alonso brings a finger to his earpiece. I freeze. Expecting the worst. Has Bacia launched something our way? "Your family will land in 30 minutes."

I look to Paul. "My mother agreed to make amends. It seems she's turning over a new leaf..."

"I hope so." Paul grimaces. "We deserve an apology."

"Are there any questions you have for me?" I prefer to end the meeting with complete transparency. Paul can ask anything; he's involved in our council from now on.

"Yes..." He glances at me, then Alonso, there's confusion in his eyes . "I don't understand why this family hasn't been taken out. I get that their crew is worldwide, but something has to be done."

"There's a plan," Alonso speaks for me. "This sort of situation requires precision. A blunt show of power will have millions at our doorstep. Patience and determination will lead us to the final solution."

He sighs, rubbing his head. "Alright... until then, I want to be involved in every decision."

"Of course." I say.

"One last question." Paul shakes his head. "Have all the wedding guests been vetted? Because that's the perfect ploy to get close to Madison."

"That has crossed our minds. The guests will arrive by ship, where each will be screened before de-boarding."

"Good... that's comforting." He stands. "I'll let you know if I have any more questions."

I go back to my room after the meeting. But Madi isn't there. I go downstairs. She's with her posse. They're outside on a floating raft complete with furniture. I'm assuming this is wedding business. I decide to go out. It's rude to not greet them. Madi must have told them I'm here. I walk to the door and open it. They're chatting about wedding favors. "White M&M's and Reese's." My baby types on a laptop. "The favor boxes have to be cream...I think peach will be too bold." 

"We can test out both." Lucy offers a neutral option.

"Right..." Madi types on. "What about the time schedule? I'm not sure how early or how late the wedding should run."

I cross a floating bridge to reach the raft. Lily notices me before anyone else. There's a flicker of hesitation in her brown eyes. Madi said her sister wasn't fully on board. I spot it. She and Jess must be bickering.

Lucy musters a faulty smile...it's different from the ones she's given me before. I think they're lying to Madi to appease her. Her big day is soon. My fiancé isn't backing out...neither am I. I'm sure all of this tension will die down once I tell them the plan. 

"Oh, there you are." Madi grins. "How was the meeting?"

"Productive," I reply truthfully. "How is everyone?"

"We're holding up... despite the circumstances," Lucy says in a mumble.

"I know a lot's going on, but it's only temporary."

My bunny nods. "I told them about the satellite."

"I'm willing to stay until NASA green lights the request." Lil is optimistic.

Jess stares off at the garden, she's quiet. The idea must be eating at her. This isn't good. All of them need to be happy in order for my baby to be. "Please, Jess..." Madi pleads.

"I'm with you...I just don't enjoy closing my business."

"Only temporarily...it's not forever." Lil looks on the bright side.

I wonder if this is about the money she'd lose or if it's about her passion. Does Jess devote her heart to styling?? "Yes...only for three days. This ban will expire before the wedding."

"You can focus on tailoring my dress until then." Lucy uses an uplifting tone.

Jess stares away from the garden to Lucy. "Yeah...I can do that." She musters a warm tone, although her pale eyes are bleak. Lily holds her girlfriend's hand, comforting it with a rub.

"Let's just focus on the present." My love goes back to typing. "The timeframe and music are the last things on the list. Is noon too early?"

"Not at all, there's so much for the guest to do. The rec rooms, the mall, the beach." Lucy leans closer to view the computer screen. "Noon is fine."

"Okay...now how late is too late? I don't want people here longer than they want to be."

"There's enough room to accommodate guests." I give a solution to her dilemma. "Some may choose to stay or sail back to the states."

"That's true..." She nods. "I think 8 pm is acceptable."

Lucy ponders. "Are we hiring a DJ?"

"That would be best... and will save us from making a 9-hour long playlist." Lil complains.

"From noon to 2 pm, the DJ could play beach songs. 3 pm to 5 pm classic oldies." Madi logs this into the laptop. "6 pm is best for the wedding ceremony. It'll look perfect at sunset."

"What song will you walk down the aisle to?" Lucy asks her daughter.

"An orchestra version of Young and beautiful." Madison gives me a suspicious stare. "Jace won't tell me the song we'll dance to."

"Because it's a surprise...and it has to be played by a live band."

Lil squints at me. "How do we know it's not a bad song?"

"It's not."

"You could tell me so I can preview it and give advice."

"Nice try, Lil."

She shrugs. "It was worth a shot."

MADISON

I wish Lily's scheme would've worked. I want to hear the song even more now that a band will be performing it. He's really keeping it hushed until the wedding. I start a timer on the computer. 4 days and 17 hours. "We have 4 venues so far...but I don't love any of them. They're nice and all, but I'm not feeling a connection."  

"There's a stone arena on the other side of the island. It's very ceremonial." Did my lovebug just solve the problem? I guess I'll see. We all dress and head to a chopper. I'm excited about the arena. Those are usually enormous...and used for concerts. The large guest list will fit perfectly! I need to treat Jace for this...his recommendation turned me on. I place on a headset to speak to him. "You'll be rewarded for this later." My voice sizzles sensually.  

"Oooo, I can't wait, babe." Lil flirts back.

I crack up. "Take off the headset." She winks at me before removing the set from her ears.

Jace looks between us. He's trying to hide his arousal. I make sure no one else has on a headset before seductively eyeing him. "Will the reward be better than what I just heard?"

"Yep, a threesome with Lil and Jess."

"Hmmm."

"Don't moan in public."

"What are you going to do about it?"

"You'll see tonight." I blow him a kiss.

The overview of the arena is marvelous. It's built into a mountain with a gorgeous view of the sea. The ledges are huge enough to hold thousands. The paved stairs stretch down to an open space, perfect for a wedding ceremony.  

There's so much designing we can do. The chairs can be styled so glamorously. Candles and lanterns come to mind. The runner rug would have to be extremely long. I count five flights of steps, perfect for my entry. The instrumental is slow, so the walk down the aisle has to match.

The copter lands on the flat center. Us girls rush out, stoked about the venue. Jess is hyped about designing the layout. She's feeling better. That's good. "Chairs, probably 5x3. All along the steps. Hanging flowers as the centerpiece....and candles." 

"Lanterns can line the walkway." I plan with her.

Jess's eyes light up, she loves the idea. "Yes! Good thinking. Oh, that would be so aesthetic at night!"

I want to practice my walk so my feet pace up the stairs. It takes a good three minutes to reach the top. I play the epic instrumental on my phone and count four times before each stride. I can't walk too fast. I continue the pace. The instrumental is 5 minutes long, my walk won't come in until the 3-minute mark. 

I timed this years ago. The groomsmen and bridesmaids entry will last for 2 minutes, then my grand entry will follow for 3 minutes. 

The heroic version of Young and Beautiful swells to a magical melody. The orchestra is breathtaking. The rushing ocean, the bewitching arena, the thrilling sensation in my heart. It all hits me. My eyes fog up. 

This is the place.

I wipe away tears, but it does little to clear my view. Jace is a blurry figure. I blink rapidly. I don't trust myself to take the last step. I'm a wreck. The tears won't stop. I reach my hand out, signaling to Jace. To my love. My fiancé. 

He gently grips it. "Tears of joy?"

"Yes," my voice is uneven. I wipe my eyes.

"Aww, baby." He pecks my lips.

"Everything is so perfect." I sniffle.

Jace kisses my eyelids. "How about we keep making it perfect?" I stare up at him, unsure of what he means. "The talk with my mother." 

Oh...right. I forgot about that. "When?"

"I'll call her to set it up."

"Okay." I smile, overjoyed. "We're getting married in 4 days and 16 hours."

"You're actually counting down?"

"Of course I am, it's the biggest day of my life."

Jace plays hurt, he holds a hand to his heart. "I thought the day we kissed was."

"Okay....you got me on that one." I giggle. "I'll rephrase. It's the second biggest day of my life."

"That's better."

My mom makes her way up the flight of steps. "I think we had a brain fart." She laughs. "Lil and Jess are bridesmaids, who are the groomsmen?"

Oh fuck! How did I miss that??? So stupid! I can't have 2 people opening the ceremony.

"My brothers will be their dates. Kim will be a bridesmaid with a plus one. I spoke with my investors; they'll be attending as groomsmen with dates. That makes 6 pairs." Once again, Jace is more prepared than I am.

"That's a relief." I sigh. "I was about to panic."

"Now all we have to do is wait."

"But the cake, crap I forgot about that!"

"The desserts and courses are all taken care of. Anoush Catering will serve a five-course meal. Glass Slipper Gourmet will supply a twenty-tier wedding cake."

My mom raises her brows, impressed. "Wow, I'm impressed that a man can plan without being told to." 

"I'm a credit to my gender." He smirks.

"That's everything, right?" I scratch the back of my head. "I hope we didn't miss anything."

"So far, I can't think of anything." Mom shakes her head.

"Me either," I admit.

"There's only one thing left; the talk with your mother."

"Your family is here?" Mom is puzzled.

"They arrived this morning. My mother has agreed to make peace." Jace explains. "I'll make the call." He kisses my forehead before walking off.

I blush because my mom saw it. As always, I can't hide my tomato cheeks. "We can wrap up here."

Mom smiles. "I don't know who you get that heavy blushing from. My side or your dad's side?" She wonders. "It's adorable. Don't try to hide it from the audience."

"I will... it's annoying."

"I doubt Jace hates it, I'm sure he's flattered."

Jess and Lil meet up with us on the steps. "I have the vision in my head. I have to get to my laptop before I lose it." Jess emphasizes as a true artist would.

"You better get back fast." I chuckle. "I'll stay here, I'm not done gawking."

"You'll love it even more on the big day." Mom is right. This is the bare surface. Imagine how it'll look once Jess decorates it?

Jace returns. "She's on the way, you two can talk here for privacy."

"Who's here?"

"My mother."

Lil looks at me. "Is this good news?"

I nod. "It is. We'll put the past behind us." I mean this completely. I'll apologize as Jace wants. I'll be the bigger person, so his big day is stress free. The chopper flies the three back to the mansion. Jace stays with me. We gaze out at the sea, reveling in the picturesque landscape. 

Today is a good day, nothing can bring me down. I'm on top of the world. My heart is gushing. I feel unstoppable. I know Mrs. Harrison will be a handful, but I'm prepared. I can do this.   

15 minutes pass before the same helicopter returns our way. I noticed Jace's shoulders tense. Why? Does he think the chat will be bad? Maybe. I mean, he knows her better than I do. He said before that his mother is critical. I have to ready myself for harsh remarks and judgment. I'm not a stranger to hatred...the media has trained me. I'll keep level-headed.  

Mrs. Harrison departs the chopper. She still has a stern face. A cold demeanor. Her eyes seem softened...but everything else gives her away. My future mother-in-law is hiding her dislike of me. She nears us, climbing down the stairs with perfect posture and a professional stride. Jace paces over to offer a hand. The last step is pretty steep. "Thank you, Jace." She says, more like a rich lady tipping the help than a mother thanking her son.  

Jace must hate this. I've always heard the phrase "stick up your ass" but never seen the saying come to life. Mrs. Harrison isn't relaxed. I think it's outlandish to her. High chin, hard stare, and clasped hands. A true businesswoman. I see where Jace gets his strict appearance from. 

I smile despite her appraisal of me. I know I'm not good enough in her eyes. "Hello, Mrs. Harrison."

"Please call me Meredith." She attempts to sound humble, but her bluntness enables this. She's so sharp.

"Alright, first name basis. You can call me Madison or Maddy."

"What a lovely name..."

"Thank you." I grin widely. "Yours is very unique. I've never heard it before."

"It's been passed down for generations. A family tradition."

"Oh..."

"And yours?"

"It's not handed down; my mom chose it from a list." I laugh.

"Hmm...interesting. That's very brave of her. Although lineage is far more important."

"Mother..." Jace is annoyed.

"I'm just speaking my opinion, dear." Meredith gives a Mona Lisa smile. I think that's as far as it can go. She appears inhuman. "Please give us some privacy." 

"Don't be rude." He warns...acting more like a parent than she is.

"Of course not, we'll have a nice chat."

Jace analyzes his mother, I can't tell if he finds her trustworthy or not. "I'll be in the chopper."

Meredith watches her son ascend the stone stairs. Once Jace is far enough, Mrs. Harrison faces me. "I've agreed to be civil for my son's sake, not for you. I've made it very clear how I feel about you and your family. I'll go along with the wedding, just to see you two divorce."  

Uh oh...she's not here to make amends. I should have caught onto that. Jace's scrutinizing gaze was a dead ringer. I want to fire back and correct her, but I made a vow to Jace to apologize. I keep my composure. "I'm sorry about the video. I was young...it was just a dance class. I've never stripped a day in my life."  

"I find that hard to believe." Meredith stares me up and down like filth. "Well raised women don't behave that way. It's obvious that your upbringing has ruined you." 

Should I say I'm a virgin to change her mind??!! Would she even believe it??! I contain my anger. "I'd like us to be better acquainted. I'm not who you assume I am." 

"Actions speak louder than words." Her blue eyes are rough. "I've been observing you. You're exactly what the world says you are. You've built nothing for yourself. Every success you've gained was given to you by my son. You've worked for nothing!" She snaps like a boarding school teacher. "The studio, the country club, the lawsuits! You're a gold digger who manipulated my son!!"  

I can't defend myself...because it's true. Jace gave me everything...but I didn't trick him. "You're right...I've worked for nothing, but not because I'm freeloading. I have no clue about my future...or my goals. I'm lost when it comes to that. Jace is just encouraging me...I'm not using your son." 

"You have no plan for your future??!!" She belittles me as if I'm a peasant. "How do you expect to match my son's reputation? Or to win my respect?"

"I'm still figuring it out. I wasn't fortunate enough to attend college. I couldn't afford it. I think you're blinded by privilege. The average person struggles with life."

"Your parents failed you!" She scoffs. "They raised a bum who uses her looks to reel in wealthy men!"

I huff out frustration. "That isn't me at all..."

"When you get to my age, you learn that people are easy to read."

"You don't know who I am!"

"I know exactly who you are! You're a woman with no status."

"I'm working on it."

"With my son's money??" Meredith laughs harshly. "Poor girl, you're not meant to be better...your faith is to live amongst your own kind. I wish Jace would realize this."

"Please...just give me a few years to change your mind." I'm desperate. I need her to accept me...she has to for Jace.

"If you haven't found yourself now, I doubt you will in a few years. My daughter was a business owner at 18. Stop with the excuses, you have no drive!" Her nostrils flare. "All I hear are excuses."

My eyes drop to the ground. I'm speechless. My confidence dwindles. Is she right? Am I worthless? Am I a slacker? Everything she's saying is valid. I've been handed everything so easily. I said before that I was out of Jace's league. I knew his type before even speaking to him. Models. Actresses. Athletes. Women with status. Jace admitted this on our first date. At the rooftop restaurant:  

"This is a whitelist event. That's why you're getting the eye. None of them know you."

"You never brought a girl like me here?"

"No."

"Ever?"

"No...I usually dine with established women."

I'm not an established woman.

Mrs. Harrison closes the space between us like a menacing snake. "The truth is all in your eyes. You know your role in this world isn't as my son's wife. He's leagues above you...worlds ahead of you." Her eyes throw daggers at my engagement ring. "I'll allow you to live out this broken fairytale for the time being. But I'll never rank you as an equal...only as low class."

I'm motionless and defenseless. I can't give a comeback because I agree with her. I'm not worthy enough for Jace. All of the women at the ball knew this truth. So does his family. Is this a broken fairytale? Am I missing the truth about our relationship? Will Jace grow tired of me? Replace me with someone better? 80% of marriages end in divorce. I fear Meredith may be right. My eyes gloss over. "Maybe you're right..."  

"I know I am!" She snarls.

"But I'd rather see how far our love goes. If that means being bullied by you, so be it. I'm tougher than I look."

Mrs. Harrison glances at the stairs. Jace is back, he glides down the steps. Her ridiculing demeanor disappears. His mother leans to kiss my cheek. "We'll see about that." The compassion in her voice is well rehearsed, as if she's a saint. She holds both my hands in hers, milking the caring act as much as possible. "Now hide your hurt, Jace will be unhappy." I fix my glum eyes. Jace approaches us. His mother beams wide enough to show all of her teeth. "I'll update the rest of the family. The wedding will be incredible!" Meredith fakes her joy, the fast clapping she does sells it.  

"Seems like the talk went well." He eyes the both of us.

"It did." Me and his mother reply at the same time.

"I accepted the apology, now all is as it should be."

I conceal the pain in my gut as best as possible. "Everything is beyond perfect."

"That's good to hear!" Jace is ecstatic. I love how relieved he is. I'm going to keep it that way. Mrs. Harrison is just one person. I'll overcome her just as I did the car accident, the coma...and Brad. She won't break me.