My eyes ran over his tiny form in my large, inked arms. So out of place, yet right where he belonged. He was perfect. His mom was perfect.
I looked up at Kaiya sleeping in our bed and smiled. I would’ve never guessed in a million years that we’d be where we are now. But I wouldn’t change it for anything. Life had a way of sorting itself out, and every detour or obstacle was there for a purpose, getting us to where we needed to be. And I was exactly where I needed to be.
Four Years Later…
Laying on the gym mat, propped up on my elbows, I watched Ryker and Hayden over by the punching bag. Ryker was trying to teach Hayden some basic punches, even though he had just turned four and had a short attention span.
Ryker lowered the bag all the way down so Hayden could reach it. He squatted next to our son and put his hands up in front of his face. “Put your hands up like this—always protect your face. Don’t let anyone hit you.”
Hayden put up his hands. They looked huge compared to his head with the gloves that Ryker had just bought him for his birthday. “Like this, Daddy?”
Ryker’s mouth spread in a huge, proud grin, lighting up his whole face. “Yeah, just like that.” He mussed Hayden’s hair. “Now, hit the bag with your fist like this.”
Ryker modeled a few punches that Hayden attempted to copy. I couldn’t stop the smile that formed as I watched them. Hayden was the spitting image of Ryker, with the same brown hair and eyes. It was amazing how much they looked alike.
My two boys.
Ryker glanced over at me, giving me that look that still knotted my stomach. His love for me was evident all over his face, just like it was when he looked at our son.
After a few more punches, he scooped Hayden up and brought him over to me. “Mommy, did you see me?” Hayden squealed as he threw his arms around my neck.
I hugged him back. “Yes, baby, you did so great!”
Hayden pulled away and stood next to me before flexing his muscles. “I want to be big and strong, just like Daddy.”
Ryker and I both laughed before Ryker said, “You will, buddy. And remember that you’ll always need to protect Mommy and your little sister when she’s born, okay?”
“I will, Daddy. I promise.”
Ryker leaned over and pressed a kiss to my lips as he placed his tattooed hand on my bulging belly and softly rubbed it. “How’s my little Warrior today?”
“She’s been kicking a lot lately.”
“Sounds like her mama—always fighting.” He chuckled.
I set my hand on top of his and smiled. “I wouldn’t want her any other way.”
Wow.
I’ve finished my fourth book.
This is the first series I’ve completed, and its bittersweet for me. Kaiya and Ryker got the happily ever after they both deserved, but I don’t think I’m ready to say good-bye to them—I’m not sure I ever will be. They’ll always have a special place in my heart, and I’ll never forget their journey.
The pressure to create a sequel worthy to The Scars of Us was overwhelming. I really hope that you enjoyed the way Kaiya’ and Ryker’s story ended—it was definitely an emotional roller-coaster for me to write.
Thank you to my beta readers, Vanessa, Natasha, Nicki, Andrea, Jennifer, and Erin for their feedback. I don’t know what I’d do without your support. I love you girls!
To my editor, Ana Zaun, for once again pushing me and helping my writing grow. There were times I wanted to chunk my laptop in frustration, but I know your criticism was only meant to help better myself. Thank you for spending your time making my work shine.
To Kari at Cover to Cover Designs, thank you for making another beautiful cover. The Mending Scars cover is a perfect follow-up to the one you made for The Scars of Us, and I know readers will love it as much as I do.
To Simon Barnes for taking another amazing photo. Your work always impresses me, and I appreciate everything that you do. Your hard work and dedication is evident in every photo you shoot, and I’m grateful for every time I get to work with you and Andrew.
And most importantly, to my readers. I know it took me longer than I originally planned to release this book, and I thank you for your patience. Seeing your excitement and interest while I dealt with my personal issues meant so much and helped lift my spirits. I’d be nothing without your support, and you will never understand how much you all mean to me.
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