Hello everyone!
I've been adding internal dialogue to the previous chapters, I've done 1-9 so far, and I'm going to do the rest over the next few days ^^
I filled this chapter with A LOT of information, but we're getting to the good (to me) stuff XD
Expect about six more chapters to the finale!
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Chapter 42
James
Something was wrong with Sofia, but she wouldn't talk to me about it.
Ever since fucking Mrs. White showed up and Miranda called, there were multiple instances where I walked in on her talking to herself or staring blankly across the room.
I knew she was hallucinating Seth again, but when I asked her, she would say 'I'm tired,' or 'Don't worry," which was ridiculous.
It was impossible not to worry about her.
I was on the verge of wearing out my bracelet from constantly vibrating it when she left for Troy.
Mom, dad, and I agreed she should see a therapist, but even we were freaked out about the possibility of Miranda getting her claws into another one.
It was terrifying to think that Sofia honestly couldn't trust anyone.
I couldn't understand why Miranda had apologized; after everything she put Sofia through, what right did she have to forgive her?
Sofia didn't do a damn thing wrong.
And now Vivian had Sofia worried I was going to trade her in or some shit.
She was the only girl I would and could ever love.
Period.
I watched my girl glide around the house in her costume, looking like the Goddess she was, taking selfies of us as she giggled, and I was reminded, yet again, why I married her.
She had been so worried that I thought she'd cheated on me, but I fucking knew better.
If the truck vandalism had been meant for us, then it was by one of the delusional assholes stalking my wife.
I vowed to keep Sofia safe, but how could I defeat invisible assailants?
All I could do was reassure her that I would take care of her, but was I?
There had to be a way to get her out of her head.
"Are we going to buy snacks before or after the dance?" Sofia asked, reapplying the white body paint to her arms.
She was trying so hard to cover her scars.
"We'll go after, but I need to run to the store after I drop you off at the gym," I smiled.
Bridgett was head of the decorating committee and had reminded me about the bouquet of roses all week, but I had something else in mind.
"Okie doke," she nodded, blowing on her arms, "Do I look okay?"
Sofia spun around, fanning her long white dress around her.
"You look perfect, my Galatea," I wrapped my arms around her, getting white paint on my blue smock, "As always,"
"Sorry, Pygmalion," she giggled, attempting to wipe it off, "You're a sculptor, not a painter,"
I loved seeing her so excited.
I'd never given much thought about Halloween, I didn't eat candy, I was never a fan of scary movies, and I stopped dressing up after elementary school, but Sofia saw it as an escape from the horror show that was her reality.
I would happily dress up, decorate the house in spiders, watch creepy movies, and let her eat all the candy she wanted if it meant she could relax for a few hours.
I dropped her off at the gym once I was sure she was safe with her girls, quickly drove to the store, grabbed all the red and green candy I could find, and sped back.
"Where are the roses?" Bridgett asked, spotting me behind the stage.
"Help me real quick," I ignored her question and began assembling the bouquet of candies.
"It's tradition to give roses to the homecoming queen, James," She raised an eyebrow at me.
I hated that word.
"Fuck tradition," I rolled my eyes, twisting green Twizzlers around boxes of red hots and kit-kat bars, "I know my wife,"
"Okay, okay," Bridget laughed, "Hold on," She ran off, coming back with a long cardboard tube and a hot glue gun, "Let me help,"
I stood guard as she created the bouquet, watching Sofia talk animatedly with her friends.
She looked so happy.
It still amazes me that she can smile as much as she does after everything she's been through.
"And done," Bridgett announced, handing me the finished product.
"Thanks, it's great," I smiled.
Sofia was going to love it.
"You're welcome," she nodded, "Now, go join the guys,"
"Yes, ma'am," I chuckled, leaving to find my teammates, who were all holding single roses.
"Yo, Talbert," Garth greeted me, patting my shoulder, "This seems familiar,"
I couldn't stop the smile from spreading across my face.
"Just like the wedding," I nodded, "Sofia said the same thing,"
"What are you doing after the dance?" Nick asked, standing beside me.
"Binging horror movies and eating junk food," I laughed.
"Speaking of junk food, is that candy?" Garth inspected the bouquet in my hand.
"Sofia doesn't like flowers," Nick shrugged, "It makes sense,"
How the hell does he know that?
"How do you know she doesn't like flowers?" I asked, eyeballing him.
Nick and I had gotten a bit closer, especially after the wedding, but I still didn't fully trust him.
"She told me," he chuckled, "I made a comment about the dahlias at the reception, and she told me she wasn't a fan of flowers—something about how tragic it is to purposely cause the death of beautiful things. I asked her about fake flowers, and she told me they weren't actual flowers, just materials used to create something that looked like flowers and that they created a false sense of immortality,"
Yeah. That sounded like my wife.
"You remembered all of that?" Garth laughed.
"Sofia's deep, and her insight is incredible; it's no wonder she's already in college," Nick smiled, "You truly are a lucky man, Talbert,"
"Yes, she is, and you're damn right I am," I smirked.
Okay.
Yes, universe, I get it.
Hearing Nick talk about Sofia so admirably must have been how Sofia felt when Vivian talked about me.
"So Garth, Vivian came by the house today," I stated, watching his smile fade.
"Yeah, she broke up with me," he shrugged, "It kinda sucks, but neither of us was happy, so it's for the best,"
"Vivian broke up with you?" Nick and Brent asked, shocked.
"She wasn't serious about it, and you really hurt her," I frowned, "It was partly my fault, and I'm sorry,"
"She seemed pretty serious," Garth cringed, "And it's not your fault. You love your wife; it's not like your flaunting a dead-end relationship. We all know how serious her situation is. I mean, we've had cops outside the school since she got back from Wyoming because of how much danger she's in, and you're doing what you can to keep her happy,"
"For sure," Brent patted my shoulder, "Hell, there were cops at your wedding, and you two don't even really leave your house except to come to school. The other girls don't seem to understand that part of it. All they see is you doting on Sofia and think to themselves how lucky she is,"
Thank God they understood, at least.
They really were good friends.
"I told her it wasn't fair to compare your relationship with ours. There's a lot more going on in Sofia's gorgeous head than she lets on, and things are getting worse," I sighed.
"Let us know if there's anything we can do," Nick smiled, "We've got your back, Talbert,"
"Keeping an eye out for the people I sent you pictures of and calling the Sherriff if you see them is all I can ask; I don't even know what else to do right now," I admitted solemnly.
"You got it, man," Garth grinned, "You just keep that girl safe; I don't know what I'll do if she can't tutor me anymore,"
I roughly punched his shoulder, and we all rolled our eyes.
I heard Sofia's voice from the other side of the curtain, so I pushed it back just enough to see her nervously sitting on the red throne.
My Queen.
Sofia was compassionate, kind, intelligent, beautiful, and strong.
I wish I were a real King, and we could banish all the vile people who want to hurt her from our kingdom.
Or at least send them to the dungeons and let them rot there.
We already had guards stationed around our castle and loyal subjects who vowed to keep her safe.
It wasn't too much of a stretch.
I laughed, pushing the curtain back and wiping the fantasy from my mind.
Maybe in another life.
"What's up?" Brent asked.
"Nothing," I shook my head, finding it hard to hide my amusement.
Mr. Avery greeted everyone, and I walked out once he announced me.
Sofia's warm smile pulled me across the stage, and the sound of her bell-like giggles when I handed her the candy bouquet made my chest swell.
"I love it," she whispered in my ear, sending chills across my body, "Thank you, my King," she curtsied, biting her pink lip.
"You're welcome, my Queen," I took her hand, bowed, and kissed it.
Sofia led me to my throne, and we held hands as the others were announced.
Vivian placed the tiara on Sofia's head, and Garth put the crown on mine before I led her to the dancefloor for our dance.
If You Love Her by Forest Blakk began to play, and I pulled her close.
Knowing that we shared our first dances made me happier than I could explain.
I was the first person she allowed herself to get close to.
I was the first person she's wanted to sleep next to.
I was the first person she's wanted to live with.
I am the happiest man on the entire planet.
"I love you, James," Sofia whispered as we swayed to the music.
"I love you too, Sofia," I gently kissed her, and she rested her head on my chest.
"Are you guys leaving?" Vivian asked an hour later as we gathered our stuff.
"Yeah, we're going to go home, watch scary movies, and, If I have my way, drift off into sugar-induced comas," Sofia laughed, poking me in the side.
"Good luck with that," I poked her back, and she pouted, linking her arm with mine.
"I want to apologize again; I shouldn't have basically blamed you for my breakup. It was unfair of me," Vivian frowned, "Garth and I talked, and I understand why he was so upset with me now,"
"Good," I nodded, "And it's okay. I hope everything works out for you,"
"I know it will," Sofia giggled, hugging her.
"Thank you both, seriously. I'd hate for anything to come between our friendship," Vivian kissed Sofia's cheek, "Sisters?"
"Sisters," Sofia nodded, beaming, "See you tomorrow,"
"See you tomorrow, and don't eat too much candy; I need you on your A-game. You're going to be in front," Vivian smirked.
Sofia's face fell, and she looked nauseous.
"I told you I'm not taking anyone else's spot," Sofia frowned.
"I'm playing my captain card," she shrugged, "You've been in the middle too long. You deserve to be seen,"
"She's right, you know," I smiled.
Sofia deserved to be spotlighted for her talent.
"You're both ridiculous," Sofia sighed, and I knew we'd won, "Fine,"
"It's cute that you thought you had a choice, but agreeing makes it easier," Vivian teased, squeezing her shoulder.
"Okay, byee," Sofia pulled me to the door.
"Congrats, baby," I kissed the side of her head.
"Thanks," she mumbled, waving at the deputy as we entered the parking lot.
"I know you don't like attention, but it's deserved, princess. You're better than most of the girls on the squad. Vivian even said that if you were here last year, you'd be captain," I picked her up, pulling her legs around my waist, and carried her to the Jeep as she gnawed on a twizzler from her bouquet, "And you're definitely the hottest," I smirked, rubbing her pink lipgloss off on my lips.
"I figured you would have argued with her; everyone is going to see me now," she giggled, adjusting the crown on my head, "I'm just annoyed that Vivian is putting someone in the middle because of me. Most of the head cheerleaders have been on the squad for four years,"
"It's sweet that you care so much about everyone else," I smiled, resting my forehead on hers, "But you're important too,"
"You're going to end up giving me an ego," she rolled her big, beautiful blue eyes.
"That's the dream, my dear," I grinned, spinning her around to the passenger side, "My girl deserves all the confidence,"
All the confidence in the galaxy.
"Does your girl also deserve all the candy?" she asked innocently.
"Yes, manipulative wife," I chuckled, kissing her again and putting her in the Jeep.
The one downside of this otherwise awesome vehicle is that Sofia couldn't cuddle up to me while I drove anymore.
I was going to have to modify it to a bench seat soon.
We ran into the store and filled up two baskets of candy, chips, cookies, and a two-liter of Mtn Dew.
I had kept Sofia on my strict diet for weeks, and we were both going to regret this tomorrow, but the smile on her face was worth it.
I ordered pizza after we got home. Sofia and I changed into our pajamas, and I ran down to wait with the deputy as she set up the living room.
I came back half an hour later to find my girl in an elaborate blanket fort that stretched from the couch to the wall behind the TV stand.
"Wow," I laughed, crawling inside and opening the pizza box, "You've really outdone yourself,"
"Thanks," she beamed, grabbing a slice of pizza, "I'm living out a childhood fantasy,"
"I'm glad to be a part of it," I smiled, kissing her cheek as she started the movie.
She curled on my lap as I leaned against the couch, piling blankets on top of us, and we mindlessly ate our snacks as the stress-inducing movie played out in front of us.
How anyone could find enjoyment from such real-life horror scenarios was beyond me, but Sofia laughed at all the scary parts and sighed every time someone didn't listen to her adorable off-screen instructions.
It was painfully obvious how different our lives had been up to this point, and I was sure the things I found gruesome and terrifying, she found relatable.
I inadvertently jumped at the sound of a gunshot, and Sofia paused the movie.
"Do you want to watch something else, baby?" she asked, straddling my waist, "We don't have to watch scary movies,"
"No, it's okay, love," I chuckled, pushing her hair behind her ear, "I'm fine,"
She smiled and kissed me before readjusting herself across me and pressing play.
She fell asleep two movies in, and I carried her upstairs, leaving her sleeping on the bed as I cleaned up the living room.
"NO!" Sofia screamed, and I bolted back upstairs.
"Sofia?!" I switched on the light, finding her glaring menacingly at the closet, "Are you okay?"
"Yeah," she snapped, not taking her eyes off the door, "I'm fine,"
Seth.
"I thought we promised not to keep secrets from each other," I frowned, sitting next to her, "Why aren't you talking to me?"
She looked up at me, and her eyes shimmered with tears.
"It's not important," she shrugged, looking back at the bed.
That's bullshit.
Everything concerning Sofia was important to me.
"Don't say that," I pulled her chin up, "You know better,"
"We have enough other stuff to worry about," she shrugged again, "I don't need you worrying about my daymares,"
"Daymares?" I asked, pulling her onto my lap.
"I see Seth everywhere," she whispered as though she was worried he'd hear her, "I know he's not real, but I can't block him out,"
"What does he say to you?" I asked, confident that I already knew the answer.
He wants her to die because she still thinks she deserves to.
"Mostly how you would be better off if I were dead, and he tells me how to kill myself," she admitted, letting the tears spill from her eyes.
"How on earth would I be better off if you were dead," I grimaced, "I couldn't live without you, Sof,"
"That's just it, though, James. You're not living. You don't get to go out; you're stuck making sure I don't do anything crazy. I'm sure you have better things to do with your time," she hit her forehead on her knees.
"Can I walk you to class?"
"I'm sure you have better things to do with your time,"
Why are we reverting back?
"No," I demanded, pulling her head to my chest, "Sofia Talbert, you are the best use of my time. I don't care about going out, especially without you, and it's not forever. We'll go on dates again as soon as Miranda, Sam, and everyone else goes to prison. The only thing I care about is keeping you safe, my love, because you are my life,"
"What if they don't? What if I'm never safe? I don't want to get kidnapped again. We can't live out the rest of our lives with a police escort, and wouldn't you rather know I was dead than worry I was being tortured again?" she whispered coldly.
That was an unfair question.
I wouldn't let her die or get kidnapped.
I would rather have her happy in my arms.
"What if questions aren't helping anything, princess. You're just senselessly worrying yourself," I wrapped my arms around her, "I know finding a new therapist is a bad idea right now, but talk to me every time Seth talks to you. Ignore him, and trust that I will take care of you,"
"Do me a favor," she sighed, looking up at me.
"Anything, baby,"
"If dad has a gun, make him hide it or lock it away where I can't find it," she held my arm tightly, "Seth's been pushing me to shoot myself,"
How the fuck was I supposed to help her?
If I told mom, she would put Sofia back in the hospital.
If I told dad, he would tell mom.
I promised Sofia she wouldn't have to back on the medication, but maybe she should.
Fuck Miranda for ruining her option to have a therapist.
"I'll talk to him, love, and you need to talk to me," I kissed the top of her head, "I'm always going to be right here,"
She nodded, and I turned the light back off.
"Are you cold?" I asked, shivering and pulling her to my chest.
"A little,"
I jumped back up and ran to the other room, grabbing blankets out of the closet.
I layered us up and pulled her back to me, laying my leg over her waist.
"My poor frozen husband," she giggled, turning over and interlocking her body with mine.
"It's a good thing I have the most gorgeous personal heater ever," I smirked, kissing her.
"You're lucky you have me, how else would you survive the winter?"
"I would have to hibernate like a bear, which would be bad for my football career, so thank you sooo much," I squeezed her.
"I live to serve, my liege," she stated sarcastically, biting my cheek.
"Oh, we're biting now?" I growled, pinning her down and biting her neck.
"Hey! Go further down if you're going to leave a mark," she pushed my head down, 'I'm going to be in front tomorrow!"
"So?" I asked, not letting her neck go, "I need to make sure everyone knows you're taken,"
"Is the ring not enough?" she laughed, bopping my nose.
"Nope," I let go and smiled up at her.
"God, you're ridiculous," she pulled my face up to hers and kissed me.
"Good morning," mom smiled from the stove as Sofia and I entered the kitchen after our workout.
As I had figured, both of us were feeling all that sugar from last night, but Sofia was trying her best not to complain about her noticeable stomach ache.
"Morning," we replied, holding our stomachs.
The smell of whatever she was cooking made me queazy.
Was this what a hangover feels like?
Ugh.
Sofia sat at the island as I got the blender down from the cabinet.
Hopefully, our shakes will help.
Dad looked up from his paper and went to sit by Sofia.
"How are you, sweetheart?" he asked, kissing her forehead, "Did you have fun at the dance last night?"
I quickly glanced at her before grabbing the ingredients from the fridge.
Maybe she will talk to dad on her own.
"Yeah, it was fun," Sofia smiled, "Vivian is moving me to the front tonight,"
Avoiding the 'How are you' question.
Great.
"Finally!" mom clapped her hands, "That's fantastic!"
"I'm guessing that's a good thing?" dad chuckled.
"It means she's a head cheerleader now," mom gushed, "As she should be,"
"Well, I'm proud of you," dad smiled, "And I have something for you,"
He walked back to the table, picking up a large white envelope, and sat back next to her.
My brain went into protect mode as I eyed the large, white envelope, but the smile on dad's face made me calm down.
Mom turned the stove off and stood next to me, impatiently tapping her foot.
What the hell is happening?
"What is it?" she asked uncertainly.
He handed it to her, and she screamed excitedly.
I ran behind her, looking over her shoulder.
I stared wide-eyed at the Yale logo in the top left corner of the envelope.
"Is this-?"
"Open it and find out," he laughed.
She tore into it, scanning her eyes over the letter.
"Dear Sofia, welcome to Yale college; it is with the greatest enthusiasm that I write to congratulate you on your admission to the class of 2026!" she read, her voice getting higher in pitch with each word, "I actually got in!"
"You did it, Sof! I'm so proud of you!" I hugged her shoulders.
Mom and dad cheered, pulling her into their arms.
"We're all proud of you!" dad beamed.
Proud doesn't even cover the amount of admiration I have for my wife.
I don't doubt that she will get into every college she applied to, but seeing the physical evidence makes the fact of how amazing she is even more real.
Sofia Talbert is the embodiment of perfection.
"We'll go out after the game tonight to celebrate!" mom exclaimed, "Anywhere you want, sweetie!"
"Can you make smoked salmon instead of us going out?" she asked, "I'm done with junk food after last night,"
That's my girl.
"I saw all those bags of candy," dad laughed, "It looks like you two partied a little too hard,"
"I was making up for lost time, but that was an excruciatingly bad idea," she groaned.
"Yes, it was," I agreed.
"Here," mom got her first aid kit out from under the sink and took out a bottle of medicine, "Take this,"
I blended our shakes, handed Sofia hers, and we both took medicine.
I felt better by the time I got to the locker room, and I hoped Sofia was honest when she said she was too.
I can't wait to watch her at half-time.
She hadn't brought Seth up at all today, and I hadn't noticed her spacing out.
Maybe her Yale letter put her in a better headspace.
"Sofia got into Yale!?" the guys gasped.
"Yep, she opened the letter this morning," I grinned.
"That's amazing!" Nick smiled, "Is she going?"
"She doesn't know yet; we're waiting to hear back from my recruiters," I sighed.
I should have heard something by now.
But we still have time.
The season doesn't end until February, so maybe we can decide by her birthday.
"We've got to do something for her," Garth stood up, "I say we all go over to her before the game and let everyone know,"
"If you want her to talk to any of us ever again, I would highly advise against that idea," Nick chuckled, "Especially since you would be putting her husband on her shit list,"
Stop knowing so much about my wife.
Fucking Nicholas.
He's right, though.
"Yeah, she's already getting moved to the front tonight; adding more stress might make her leave," I frowned.
"Maybe we could have Mr. Avery make an announcement Monday? And we should get her something; what do you think she'd want?" Brent asked.
"What about decorating the hallway for her Tomorrow night? I have the keys to the school," Coach Rassmussen offered.
"That's a great idea!" I smiled, "I'll get the supplies tomorrow afternoon,"
"Don't worry about it; we'll take care of everything," Garth patted my back, "Just don't give anything away, Talbert,"
Everyone nodded, and I laughed.
So many people care about Sofia.
She is an inspiration.
I wish she could see it for herself.
Maybe she will after this.
I ran to the bleachers during half-time and sat on the stairs next to mom and dad as we watched Sofia.
"She belongs in front," mom smiled, recording her, "I'm so proud of our daughter, Roland,"
"So am I," he agreed, standing up and whistling once they were finished.
I love hearing my parents talk about her like this.
I jumped over the rail and kissed her as I picked her up into my arms.
Everyone loves my girl, but none more than me.
I kept the decorations a secret all weekend, and when we walked into the school on Monday morning, we were both shocked.
I pulled my phone out and began recording her.
My teammates and the cheerleaders stood by the doors, setting off confetti bombs as we walked in, a huge banner reading 'CONGRATULATIONS ON GETTING INTO YALE, SOFIA TALBERT!' was spread across the hallway, and the Yale alma matter song played over the speakers.
Everyone stood by the lockers, cheering for her, and Mr. Avery stood in the middle.
I looked down at my trembling girl, worried she was crying, but she exploded into a fit of giggles.
"Congratulations, Sofia, I knew you'd get in," Mr. Avery smiled, handing her an envelope, "Open that later," he winked, and she nodded.
"Thank you," she hugged him.
I pulled her to my side, and I swore I could feel the happiness radiate off her.
"Did you know about this?" she asked, looking up at me with her big blue eyes.
"I knew of this, yes," I smiled, "But they really went all out,"
"Congrats, teach," Garth tousled her hair, "We're all so proud of you,"
"Yeah, we are!" Vivian exclaimed, hugging her.
The rest of the squad quickly joined her, and Sofia threw her head back in laughter.
"Thank you so much, guys," she smiled.
I'm glad she was so happy.
I was a little worried she would get freaked out, but her reaction is heartwarming.
"Are you going to do this every time I get accepted into a college?" Sofia giggled, returning to my arm.
"If I can get you to smile like this, then you'd better believe it," I smirked.
She kissed my hand and led me, skipping, to class as other students congratulated her.
She sat at her desk and opened the envelope Mr. Avery had handed her.
"Nope," she stood up and ran out of the room.
"Baby?" I called, chasing after her.
I saw her duck into Mr. Avery's office and followed her.
"This is too much," she handed him the envelope back, "I can't accept it,"
"Did you read the paper inside, Sofia?" he asked, not moving his hands, "Hello James," he smiled at me.
I waved at him, watching Sofia hastily read the paper.
"I don't understand," she tilted her head to the side.
"I applied you for multiple scholarships," he chuckled, "Normally, the money would go to your parents and into a college fund until after graduation, but since you are no longer considered a minor, it goes directly to you to use as you please,"
"I qualified for this much scholarship money?" she whispered, handing me the envelope.
I opened it, and my vision went blurry.
Sixteen-thousand dollars.
Holy. Shit.
"I was looking through your file and saw how much volunteer work you did back in Missouri, as well as all the extracurriculars you took part in in your Freshman and Sophomore years, and those put you over the top," he stood up and extended his hand, "Congratulations, Mrs. Talbert. You are officially Ivy League,"
"Volunteer work?" I asked.
Why didn't I know about her volunteering?
I know all the bad things about her life, but why did she keep the good locked away?
She shook his hand timidly, "Yeah, that's why I joined the cheer squad and FFA. We did a lot of community service work. I helped with highway cleanups, worked at soup kitchens, and spent the summer before my Sophomore year working with Habitat for Humanity," she whispered, "But I didn't do any last year or this year,"
"I told them about your situation," he admitted, "But you put in more hours than many of the other applicants,"
"This is crazy," she sat down, "But I appreciate you going out of your way for me,"
"Of course, Sofia. As I said, you are an essential student, and we care about your future," Mr. Avery patted her shoulder, "Let me know if you need anything,"
"I will," she nodded.
She took my hand and led me back to class.
"What else don't I know about you?" I asked, pulling her to my side, "It's great that you volunteered so much,"
"It looks good on college applications and scholarships apparently," she smiled, "I told you it's all I've ever wanted to do. Will you keep ahold of the check? I don't want to lose it,"
I nodded, putting it in my wallet.
"You're amazing, my love," I kissed the top of her head.
The next three weeks went by semi-fine.
Sofia didn't complain about Seth since she got her Yale acceptance.
I hoped that the key to keeping her hallucination-free was continuing to remind her how much everyone loved her and how capable she was.
That will be easy.
We stayed at a hotel in Cincinnatti Friday night before our flight to Hawaii since it was leaving at eight-thirty am, and Sofia wasn't even trying to hide her animosity toward the trip.
I am so glad we're going somewhere warm; it has been getting unbearably cold in Ohio.
"I'll see you when you get back!" she called from the gate as our flight was called, and we all groaned.
Mom and dad left me to coax my wife, and I sighed.
Rude.
"Come on, baby," I wrapped my arm around her waist, pulling her to the terminal, "We're going to Hawaii! It's going to be fun; we're going to see Aunt Tilly, hike, research good volcanos to throw people in, swim in the ocean, and eat a bunch of food," I reminded her for the hundredth time, "And I'll even go scuba diving with you," I added, hoping that would motivate her more.
"You will?" she raised an eyebrow at me skeptically.
"Yes," I nodded, pointing to the ramp, "But we have to get on the plane,"
"You promise you'll go scuba diving with me? And snorkeling?" she added hopefully.
If she could ride in a plane for twenty-three hours, I could get my head wet for a while.
"Anything you want," I nodded, and she let me pull her inside the plane.
Aunt Tilly had insisted on paying for our flight, and since we were traveling the furthest, she put us in first class.
"There you are," dad grinned, "I'm glad you decided to join us,"
"Did I have a choice?" she pouted.
"No, not really," mom laughed as we took our seats in front of them.
The seats were huge and comfortable, and I was kind of jealous of how well Sofia could curl up in hers.
Being tall is only an attribute in football.
It is annoying otherwise.
She stared out the window, and I put my arm around her shoulders.
"You okay?" I whispered.
"I'm stuck in a death machine headed to the middle of the Pacific ocean. Ask me again when I step back on land," she huffed, crossing her arms.
"Fair enough," I kissed her temple, grabbing the Ipad and handing Sofia one of my Airpods, "Get your mind off it,"
The flight attendant passed around drinks, and we snuggled together to watch a movie.
The plane took off, and Sofia pressed against me, hiding under my arm.
The pilot announced that we were over the Pacific Ocean and gained three hours from Cincinnati.
We reached Hawaii at five am, and Aunt Tilly picked us up.
"I'm so glad you're here!" she gushed, pulling Sofia into a hug.
"Gee, it's nice to see you too, Tilly," dad rolled his eyes sarcastically.
"Oh, I'm glad you're all here," she waved him off passively.
Aunt Tilly really likes Sofia, and I'm glad because she's my favorite family member aside from my parents.
"Are you guys hungry?" she asked, grabbing Sofia's hand from mine and leading us outside, "There's a good diner down the road,"
Aunt Tilly whispered something to Sofia, and she looked back at me, giggling.
She stole my wife.
Wow.
We got to her black SUV, and I pulled Sofia to the back with me.
"James, you get to see Sofia every day; let me have her for a bit," Tilly pouted.
"Do you want to sit upfront?" I sighed, and Sofia nodded enthusiastically.
"Fine," I groaned, letting her go.
I watched them talk animatedly, and I smiled.
I don't want to share her, especially on our honeymoon, but she needs as much support from my other family members as she can get.
"We're going to need to rent a car while we're here," Sofia stated as we ate, "James and I have a bunch of stuff we want to do,"
"You can use my motorcycle," Tilly offered, "It will be easier to get around in,"
"I don't know how I feel about them on a motorcycle," dad cringed, "James hasn't even ridden a bike since he was eight,"
"I haven't needed to," I shrugged, biting into my pork taco, "Doesn't mean I can't drive a motorcycle,"
"We'll see," mom sighed, "What are you doing first?"
"Hiking Diamond Head," Sofia smiled enthusiastically, "I can't wait!"
"What time are you going?" Tilly asked.
"They open at ten, so we'll get there at nine-thirty in case it's crowded," I explained, wiping my hands off as I finished eating.
"That's a good idea," Tilly nodded, "Are you staying with me at the house?"
"No, we have a hotel reservation. We're treating this like our honeymoon," Sofia smiled at me.
"Well, don't stay away the whole time," Tilly frowned, "I should warn you though; mom said she's coming,"
"Why?" we all groaned.
"She wants to see the new house, but she's only going to be here Thursday through Saturday,"
"Is dad coming?" dad asked, and Tilly shook her head.
"He has to work,"
"Damnit. Well, I guess three days out of six won't be too bad," dad huffed, "She'd better not cause any trouble for Sofia,"
"If she does, I'll send her home," Tilly stated seriously, "She knows we're pissed at her,"
"She'd better," I mumbled, wrapping my arm around Sofia's shoulders.
We piled back in Tilly's SUV and drove to her house.
I followed her to the motorcycle, proved to my overprotective parents that I could drive it, and Sofia and I went sightseeing.
We hiked diamond head, spending as much time in the caverns as we could since Sofia burned so quickly, and decided to snorkel once we were finished.
We ran back to Tilly's, grabbed our bags, checked into the hotel, and changed before heading to the Snorkel tour.
Getting myself to go under the water drove my anxiety through the roof, but I promised Sofia I would, and it was entertaining.
We really are two halves of a whole.
She makes me want to do things I had never wanted to.
She makes me appreciate so many aspects of life that have never crossed my mind.
I hope I do the same for her.
We got to see all kinds of fish, and Sofia was excited to swim with the giant sea turtles.
We spent the rest of the evening showing everyone pictures and went back to the hotel.
We decided on taking a volcano tour the next day, and she talked me into going to the beach.
It was crowded with people, and I kept a tight grip on Sofia's hand as we searched for a spot to sit.
We finally found an unoccupied umbrella and set up our stuff.
"It's insane how much of a temperature difference there is here," she wiped the sweat off her forehead and pulled her dress off, revealing her black and green bikini.
It looked better on her now than it had when we went camping.
She had been building muscle nicely, and I saw the outline of her abs on her stomach.
She's becoming more and more attractive every day.
Her hair was fuller than it had been three months ago, her cheeks had a tint of pink to them now, and it was impossible not to notice how firm her body was becoming.
I've had a hard time keeping my hands off of her, but we haven't had sex since my birthday.
She hasn't had anyone to talk to, and I don't want to push her.
"I'm just glad to be away from the cold for a while," I laughed, pulling my shirt off and wrapping my arms around her from behind, "It's going to suck when we get back,"
"We're all going to get sick," she giggled, looking up at me, "I'm pretty sure Cleo said something about snow next week,"
I leaned down and pressed my lips to hers.
"You're too sexy to say words like that, my love," I grinned, resting my chin on the top of her head.
"Snow isn't a bad word," she shook her head, "You're going to love it,"
"I love you, gorgeous wife," I whispered.
"I love you too, handsome husband," she giggled, handing me the sunscreen.
I rubbed it on her, and she pulled me to the water.
"Have you ever made a sandcastle?" she asked, burying her arms in the wet sand.
"Not without one of those plastic molds," I admitted, kneeling next to her, "But we can try,"
We played in the sand, ending up with more sand igloo than sandcastle, but she found a shell and put it on top.
"Aaaand it's perfect," she sang, kissing my shoulder.
Yes, she is.
I picked her up and kissed her as we ran into the crashing waves.
I'm going to make a list of everything she hasn't done and make a point to do it all for the first time with her.
I love introducing her to new things and sharing her first experiences.
She started to burn, and I pulled her back to our spot.
"It's so hot," she complained, diving into the shade of our umbrella.
"I'll go get us snowcones," I kissed her and ran over to the stall.
I grabbed them and growled when I turned around.
Three big guys were crowded around my panicked wife.
I've been gone five minutes, and the damn vultures attack.
"Can we help you?" I glared at them, handing Sofia her snowcone and wrapping my arm around her waist.
They were a lot bigger than me, but I wouldn't hesitate to take them all on.
"Who the fuck are you?" one of them asked, crossing his arms.
"I told you I was here with my husband," Sofia hid behind my arm.
"It's okay, baby," I pushed her further behind me, "Leave her alone,"
"This guy's your husband?" another member of the group asked, scanning me, "You need an upgrade, baby girl,"
"Fuck off," Sofia spat, ducking under my arm, and I had to hold her back, "You're not an upgrade, you persistent fucking asshole,"
There she goes trying to protect me again.
It's like a switch flips every time someone says something about me.
"Fiesty redhead," the last arrogant member chimed in, "Those are the best,"
"Why don't you leave her here with us, mainlander? We'll take good care of her," the first guy smirked, grabbing her arm.
I moved to punch him, but Sofia swung herself around, wrapping her arms around his neck like a snake, and her legs kept his arms pinned behind him, "Don't fucking touch me!"
His buddies and I watched as Sofia strangled him.
I noticed a crowd gathering around us, and people started taking their phones out and cheering her on.
I positioned myself to strike if she needed my help, but she was doing an excellent job on her own.
Has she done this before?
God, she's hot.
"Get off him, you psyco!" one of the others tried to pull her off, but I shoved him back.
"We told you to leave," I growled.
He deserves it for touching her.
"Are you going to go away?" she growled lowly in his ear, and he nodded.
Fuck.
Is it weird that this is turning me on?
Sofia brought the guy to his knees and jumped off him.
He inhaled sharply, grabbing at his neck.
"What the hell?!" he gasped, standing back up and hurrying away with his friends close behind.
"Bye!" Sofia called, looking at her arm, "Motherfucker," she grumbled.
"Baby?" I touched her shoulder and inspected her arm, "Did he hurt you?"
"I'm good," she smirked up at me with an unfamiliar gleam in her wild eyes, "Your training and cheer are really paying off,"
I didn't think it possible to love her more than I already did but damn if I was wrong.
"That was sexy as hell," I pulled her down with me on the blanket, "But are you sure you're alright?"
I caressed her cheek.
The things I would do to her if we were alone right now.
"I told you I've always been a fighter," she laughed, "I earned my scars, and you're lucky I've liked you from the beginning,"
Yeah. She'd done that before.
Just not successfully.
I tried not to think about what would have happened if she had done that to me when we first met.
A tidal wave of sexual fantasies crashed into my brain.
"I wouldn't mind if we tried that later," I whispered in her ear, making her blush.
"Do you want to go back to the hotel?" she asked, tracing her fingers over my torso.
"Yep," I nodded, picking her up and grabbed the cooler and our clothes before running back to the parking lot.
She doesn't have to ask me twice.
She pulled my face down and kissed me as I stuck the cooler on the back.
I sped to the hotel, highly conscious of her half-naked body against mine.
We ran up to the room, and I spun her to the bathroom.
We were covered in sand, but I couldn't wait.
I turned the water on and pulled her inside, heatedly pressing my lips to hers as I quickly removed her bikini and my trunks.
I turned her around, slid my hands down her arms, laced our fingers together, and placed them on the wall before thrusting my already rock-hard cock to the hilt inside her.
"Why don't you leave her with us, mainlander? We'll take good care of her,"
Fuck those guys.
No one could love Sofia like I did.
God damn, the feeling of her bare walls on me is too fucking good.
"Harder," she moaned, arching her back and moving her hips with mine.
I grabbed her hips, increasing my force and speed.
I thought about how elegantly Sofia had swung around that guy's back and how much I wanted her to do that to me.
Only with her legs.
In front of my face.
Goddamn.
I could feel myself getting close, and I pulled out, coming on her back.
I pulled her up and spun her around, bringing her lips back to mine as she grabbed me.
I slid my fingers inside her soaking wet hole.
"That's right, baby, squirm," I whispered, and she squealed, coming on my hand.
I cleaned her up, and she washed me before I carried her towel-covered body to the bed.
She got up and dropped the towel to the floor.
"So," she smirked, running her hands over my shoulders, "You liked that, huh?"
Liked? Loved.
I nodded, keeping my eyes on hers.
She dug her nails into my deltoids and effortlessly pulled herself up, wrapping her legs around my neck and swinging around to the front.
"Hi," she giggled, looking down at me.
"Oh my god," I moaned, looking up at my princess.
Her hair fell around us in a curly red veil.
This is what I want forever.
I want my Sofia for the rest of my very happy life.
I grabbed her shoulder blades, and she leaned back, trusting me completely.
"Hips up," I instructed, and she lifted them, perfectly aligning herself with my mouth.
Oh. My. God.
She's perfect.
I plunged my tongue deeper inside her than I had ever managed.
Sofia moaned and convulsed, but I kept her steady as I pleasured her.
She can be so innocent and cute but sexy and sensual at the same time.
How I had gone my entire life without her was a mystery.
I need to love her.
I need her love.
It was my lifeblood.
I'm sure I would die without her.
Aunt Tilly called the following day, and we promised that we would spend the day with her, but I knew she just wanted to see my girl.
The two of them had such a magnetic bond; it almost made me jealous.
They liked the same music, the same movies, they constantly quoted movies back and forth, and I got lost listening to them.
"You guys are going to have to stay here tonight," dad sighed.
"What? Why?" my voice came out as more of a whine than I intended, and everyone looked at me knowingly.
Sofia bit her lip and put her hand over her mouth.
I want to be alone with my wife.
Sue me.
"We have to get the pig from the market at two-thirty in the morning," dad rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassed by my outburst.
"You two can have the couch in the den," Tilly laughed, shoving my shoulder playfully, "It's just for tonight,"
"Okay," Sofia nodded, grabbing my arm, "No problem,"
I set my alarm for two as Sofia, and I got comfortable on the couch.
"I love you," she whispered, resting her head in the crook of my neck.
"I love you too, baby," I whispered back, tightly wrapping my arm around her and drifting off to sleep.
My alarm went off too soon, but I unraveled myself from my sleeping wife and waited for dad in the living room.
"Come on," he huffed, leading me to the backyard and handing me, and we filled the pit with wood chips and charcoal.
Dad got the coals lit, and we got in Tilly's SUV to pick up the pig.
The men at the meat house loaded the crate into the back, and we headed back.
"It's three am; why are we doing this now?" I groaned, helping him carry it to the backyard.
"Tilly wants it done by four, and it takes about twelve hours, so stop complaining and get it in the ground.
We put the crate on the coals and covered it with fruit and palm leaves.
"Now what?" I asked.
"Now we go back to sleep," he yawned, "We don't touch it again until tonight,"
I followed him back inside and curled up with Sofia on the couch.
Mom woke us up at nine, and we started working on the dinner.
Sofia and Tilly started all of us on an ABBA kick, and I laughed as they sang Waterloo and Fernando to me, using the utensils as microphones.
"My first family holiday dinner," Sofia squealed, helping mom and Tilly make the sides.
"What?" Tilly asked, shocked, "Did your family not celebrate holidays?"
"Oh, they did, but I never got to go," she shrugged, peeling apples, "Julie always had them at her house,"
"Julie?" mom asked, checking the potatoes.
"Her grandma," I spat, stirring the cranberry salad, "The one we saw at the cemetery before we left,"
"The sexist one," dad shook his head, "That whole family deserves to be irradicated with fire,"
"We picked out a couple of really nice volcanoes to throw them in on Monday," Sofia laughed.
"What about your dad's family?" Tilly asked, and Sofia got eerily quiet.
Her eyes flickered to the side of the room, and my heart sank.
Shit.
"They think I'm dead," she composed herself and continued twirling the knife around the apples.
"Excuse me?" mom stared at her, stunned.
We all shared in her shock.
"I was in the car when Patrick and Seth died, and Sam told them that I died too," she growled, "There's a cross at the tree with my name on it,"
What the fuck?!
She shouldn't be holding a knife.
Keeping Sofia locked up as a prisoner was bad enough without letting potentially nice family members think she had died!
"They never checked?" dad yelled.
"They all live in Czechoslovakia; Patrick immigrated to the U.S when he was eighteen. None of them have ever been here," she sighed, putting the knife down, "They saw pictures, and at the time, there was a false grave next to Seth with my name on it,"
My stomach lurched, and I felt like I was going to throw up.
"Why didn't you ever reach out to them?" I asked, glad that she put the knife down.
"And say what? Hi, I'm your granddaughter; I know you thought I was dead, but surprise! Can I move in with you?" she chuckled sourly, "Plus if they're anything like Patrick, I'd rather not meet them. I'm where I was meant to be,"
"Yeah, you are," I hugged her.
"I'm so sorry," Tilly cried, "You poor girl,"
"It's okay," she smiled, picking the knife back up, "If I hadn't stayed where I was, I never would have met James. I doubt you'd ever go to Czechoslovakia," she laughed, kissing my cheek.
We would have met eventually, of that I was sure, but maybe she was right.
Sofia is living proof that you can rise above your raising, but what if Patrick was the product of his?
The thought made me cringe.
She truly had no good options before.
"You could have come back," mom sighed.
"I would have ended up in Germany," Sofia stated matter-of-factly, "I wouldn't have stepped foot back in the states,"
If we hadn't met, I would have died a very lonely old man.
"Benton isn't a very Czech name, is it?" dad asked, going back to his macaroni salad.
"Patrick shortened it when he got here; it was originally Bentonekenevsky," she stumbled, laughing.
"Touche," dad laughed.
"I have to go pick mom up from the airport," Tilly announced, and we all rolled our eyes.
"I know, I know," she huffed, grabbing her purse and rushing out of the house.
"And it's just the four of us, once again," mom smiled, flinging water on me.
"The way it should be," dad nodded.
"What are you guys going to do when we go to college next year?" I laughed, wiping the water off my face.
"We're going to move wherever you do," mom smiled, "With experience like ours, we can live anywhere,"
"We'll be sure to buy houses right next to each other," Sofia smiled, "James wants to buy multiple houses anyway, right honey?"
"As long as we get our own separate house, I'm fine with whatever you want to do," I laughed.
"Yes, James, we know you and Sofia want your privacy," mom laughed, "And we want grandchildren, so we're all in agreement,"
"I thought you were against hearing about your 'looming grandchildren,'" I chuckled.
"That was before you guys were married," she shrugged.
"Don't get your hopes up just yet," Sofia laughed, "I want to wait until after college,"
She wants kids!
She wants my kids!
Sofia wants to have kids with me!
I can definitely wait until after college.
"You've worked so hard to get into college, of course, we know you want to wait," mom smiled, "But that's still only four years, and we will stalk you until I get to hold a baby,"
"Stalk away, mom," Sofia jumped up and hugged her, "I wouldn't have it any other way,"
"Neither would I," I smiled, tossing my arm over dad's shoulders.
I love my parents.
Sofia really loves my parents, and I know they love us.
"As long as it's close to somewhere I can take my grandkids fishing, I'm all for it," he laughed.
"Hello!" Grandma Talbert called, breaking our moment from the front door as Tilly swung around her.
"Hi, mom," Mom and dad greeted her passively.
"Hi James, Hi Sofia," she smiled.
Fuck you.
Don't spoil this.
"Hi," I nodded, beginning to set the table as Sofia helped Tilly and mom with the sides.
Sofia glanced over at her, visibly conflicted.
"How are you?" Sofia asked, offering her a cookie.
"I've been well," Grandma took the cookie and hugged her, "You look great,"
"She's healthy now," mom nodded.
"Did we tell you Sofia got into Yale?" dad asked Tilly with a huge grin on her face.
"About six times," Tilly laughed, "But I haven't got a chance to congratulate her yet!"
"You got into Yale?" Grandma gasped, "That's great! Congratulations!"
I watched grandma for any sign of insincerity, but she seemed sincere enough.
"We're all so proud of her; she's ahead cheerleader now, too," mom gushed, hugging Sofia's shoulders.
"You seem to have come a long way in just a few months," Grandma smiled, "How are things with your...family?"
"We don't talk about them," Dad shook his head, "They have nothing to do with our girl,"
"Well, if you need any information, I know how to get it," grandma patted Sofia's shoulder, "I am still sorry for how I acted before your wedding; would you mind sending me some pictures?"
I pulled out my phone and showed her the ones I took of Sofia and the reception.
"She was so beautiful in her dress," Tilly sighed, "Tell me you had it preserved,"
"I did," mom nodded, "It's in a fireproof box in our spare room,"
"Your daughter is going to thank you," Grandma smiled.
Sofia put her hand over her mouth to hide her smile as she eyed me.
Our daughter.
We were going to have the most adorable children.
Little heartbreakers.
"The pig is done!" Dad announced, "James, help me get the beast back inside,"
I threw my head back and groaned, "Coming!"
Mom and Sofia set the table up as we lugged the mouth-watering pig inside.
Dad sliced off pieces as I handed him plates, and we all happily ate and talked the rest of the night.
Sofia and I went back to the hotel with happy stomachs and a newfound sense of our relationship.
"Do you really want to have kids?" I asked, laying on the bed next to her.
"I do," she nodded, "I'd still like us to be foster parents later on in life, but I think you're right,"
"About what, princess?" I asked, getting on top of her and propping myself up on my hands.
"Once I get my head right, we will make great parents," she whispered, rubbing her nose on mine.
"Did you see Seth earlier when Tilly asked about Patrick's family?"
"Mhm," she nodded, "For a second. He reminded me about the grave,"
"I wish I could not understand why Sam and Miranda would do that, but it seems very like something they would do," I frowned, flipping back over and pulling her on top of me.
"They're cruel, and I can't wait to get the chance to speak at their trial," she sighed happily, "It's going to be a good day,"
"I agree, and I'll be there the whole time. I can't wait to watch them get escorted out, but part of me hopes they pull something so I can kill them," I huffed, "Or at least watch them die,"
She pressed her lips on mine, running her fingers through my hair.
"I love you so much, James Talbert," she rested her forehead on mine.
"And I love you, Sofia Talbert. So very very much,"
We spent the next two days exploring and going to Pearl Harbor, but the trip went by too quickly, and we were, unfortunately, back at the airport.
"Why don't you guys stay?" Tilly sighed sadly, "You could transfer schools, it's always warm, so no snow, and you can go to the beach every day,"
"You make some very fine points, Aunt Tilly," I laughed, kissing her cheek, "We'll visit again soon,"
"Make sure you do," she hugged me and grabbed Sofia's hands, "Oh, I'm going to miss you," she sniffled.
"Don't you dare cry," Sofia giggled, "We'll be back,"
"I wish you'd stay; I have such a bad feeling something's going to happen if you go," Tilly frowned.
"I'll take good care of her," I smiled, but something in her warning made my blood run cold.
We boarded the plane and settled in for another long flight.
"I had such a good time," Sofia snuggled against me as we watched a movie.
"So did I," I sighed.
"Hey!" a girl across the aisle waved at us, and we took out our headphones.
"Yeah?" I asked.
"You two are famous," she giggled, showing us her phone.
We watched a video of Sofia's self-defense, takedown of the asshole at the beach, and Sofia blushed a bright crimson.
"That was awesome!" the girl laughed, "I wish I could have seen it in person,"
"Those guys were the worst," Sofia rolled her eyes.
I got the link and saved the video on my phone to show the guys back home.
They were going to love it.
And I wouldn't mind watching it.
Over and over again.
"James, grab some food from the food court, dad and I are going to take the bags to the car," mom instructed after we landed.
"Yes, ma'am," I saluted her, earning a fit of giggles from my wife.
"I have to pee," Sofia announced while we waited in line, kissing my cheek, "I'll be right back,"
"Okay," I chuckled, "I'll carry all the food,"
"Thank you, husband," she giggled, letting go of my hand and walking down the hallway.
I got our food and stood outside the door.
She had been in there for a while, and I was starting to get worried.
I put the boxes down and texted her, but she didn't read it.
"Excuse me," I stopped a woman walking past me, "Can you check on my wife for me? Her name is Sofia,"
"Sure," she nodded, opening the door.
"There's no one else in there," she stated, coming out a few minutes later.
"Are you sure?" I asked fearfully.
She nodded, and I started looking around the airport.
Maybe she's with mom and dad.
She's fine.
I called mom and waited for her to pick up.
Hey, male child," she laughed.
"Mom, is Sofia with you?" I asked, continuing to look for her.
"No," she answered concerned, "Dad and I are at the car; we were waiting for you two,"
"She's gone!" I barked, "Come back inside, I'm going to talk to security,"