I have been looking at this all day. it was an unusual day at work so I wasn't able to do my breakroom writing like in other days. I haven't even touched the next gamer story, which is called "Tech Con" by the way. running way behind on that one LOL I am not even halfway through. and Outlaw Sea is really pretty short. but I digress. here is this montage chapter... Enjoy.

Chapter 22

February 10

Detroit, MI

Jade stepped on to the stage, her gaze sweeping over the crowd as she lifted her hand in a wave. The banners and signs stating Keep moving Forward bobbed in the nippy air . The campaign slogan carrying on President Harris' message of not going back, and forging a new way forward. She wanted to remind everyone that they had indeed turned a page and forged this path forward by electing Harris, preventing fascism, and in turn electing her when it was her turn. She stepped up to the microphone, her voice carrying the practiced warmth and confidence she had forged when she was just a young woman straight out of law school and running for congress of the largest state in the nation. In the constituency with the highest GDP and influence. She radiated this confidence and showed the world that she was a leader who believed deeply in her message.

"As we gather here today, I'm reminded of the shoulders we're standing on, of those who dared to hope, to strive, and to change the very fabric of this country," she says, her voice steady yet powerful. "President Harris—who made us believe that our voices as women, as leaders, mattered, and President Obama, who told us 'yes, we can' and didn't just change the White House, he changed us."

The crowd erupted in applause, some of them nodding, others holding their hands over their hearts. Jade leaned forward, driving her message home.

"And Michelle Obama—First Lady, advocate, a warrior for our children's futures—she taught us to 'go high when they go low.' And Calling the wrongs out when they have gone too far. We have to continue to do just that. We're in a time where we have now overcome those that want to take us backward, but we now more than ever need to push forward. We can't turn back now, we're in the middle of the river, we just have to make it to the other side." Her words were met with applause, a unified agreement rippling through the gathered supporters.

"This campaign isn't just about policy; it's about belief. About every single person who has ever been told 'no,' or 'wait your turn.' This is about the next generation—the generation after that. It's about knowing that if we work together, no matter the challenges, we can bring about a better tomorrow for everyone in this country. We can pave a path of dignity, of progress, of unity."

Cheers rose and Jade looked out at her constituents feeling the connection with them. They are still with her. But This feeling has been deceiving before and she was unwilling to take this for granted.

"Now," she finished, her voice filled with fierce determination, "I'm not here because it's easy or because it's popular. I'm here because it's necessary. And together, we'll fight to make sure this work continues. We've come too far, sacrificed too much, to let anyone pull us backward. We will keep moving forward. Because of you, because of us—all of us standing shoulder to shoulder—we can, and we will!"

With applause thundering, Jade stepped back, waving to the crowd as she exited the stage. Her aides guided her to the car waiting nearby, but her mind was already on the next stop, the next crowd, the next connection.

She settled into her seat, She pulled out her phone to check the latest notifications and messages. A single text from Tori waited at the top:

Saw the speech. I think even Michelle would be proud.

Jade's lips curved into a private smile, a soft warmth filling her amidst the hectic pace of her campaign. She missed her so much and it had been less than a month. It was as if she had been starving these years, and finally hear heart was getting what it needed. She typed a quick reply— If you liked it, I'm the happiest. I miss you.—and leaned back, her fingers tapping out a new route as she headed toward her next rally.

February 28

Yerba, Government Building

Tori stood shoulder to shoulder with Trina. Both of them pored over pages and pages of Yerbanian documents trying to draft a working constitution with all factions of the country. The words are dense and layered, but this new draft will shape Yerba's elections. This draft will become a living document that should grow and change with the country's needs. She'd never thought Yerba would be free when her father was in power. She rubbed her neck and the fatigue from the endless hours were settling into her bones. Yet the spark in her eyes shone of a feeling she couldn't articulate. Yerba was free… and so was she.

"Look at this," Trina murmured, flipping to a section on transitional power-sharing. "When this goes through, we'll finally have a structure that gives the people a real voice."

Tori nodded, pride warming her chest as she watched Trina take charge. "You know, you need to run for chancellor," She said softly her sister was formidable, and probably should have taken over when their father died. Instead here she was, pining for her home in the Maldives, and her girlfriend.

Trina snorted, rolling her eyes. "Another Vega in office…" They share a small, knowing smile, and then Tori's phone buzzes in her pocket.

A quick glance, and her heart skipped a beat.

Jade.

She looked back at Trina, "Hey… I'm gonna…."

Trina waves her off, eyes still focused on the draft. "Go. You need it."

Tori slipped into her office and tapped the video call button. Jade's face lit up th screen moments later, and just the sight of her soothed her like a balm.

"Hey, there Chancellor," Jade said, her voice warm, smooth, a little bit teasing.

"Chancellor? That hurts, Madam President." Tori teased back, sinking into the worn leather chair, all the tension from the day seeping out of her. "I'm heading a revolution over here."

Jade chuckled, leaning closer to the camera. "And doing a damn good job of it, from what I hear. You should win a Nobel Peace prize."

Tori's fingers brushed the screen, as if touching Jade's face from continents away. "I think I'll settle for a quiet night in with you," she murmured, her gaze softening.

Jade's smile deepened. "Oh, we'll have that again. But first, let me see that smile up close, Chancellor."

Tori chuckled, running a hand through her hair, playing along. "You cut a hard bargain, you know that?"

"That's why they pay me the big bucks," Jade said with a smirk, her eyes brightening. "So tell me, how's the revolution going?"

Tori sighs, glancing back at the piles of papers. "We're close, Jade. So close I can taste it. We're trying to make it as smooth as possible, but… it feels like a house of cards. Every step feels fragile."

"You're doing it, Tori. This is history. You're going to give your people something they've never had—a voice." there was pride in Jade's voice, a quiet strength that reassured her.

Tori's chest tightened, feeling the weight of Jade's faith in her. "Thank you," she said softly. "Sometimes I think I'm just holding everything together with duct tape and a prayer. This draft, this transition—it feels like if I look away for one second, it'll all fall apart."

"Then keep looking forward," Jade said, her voice filled with conviction. "You've gotten this far. They trust you, Tori. They need you now."

They share a long look, a silent promise between them.

"You really do know how to make a girl feel like a hero," Tori murmured, her fingers again brushing the screen.

Jade's gaze softened. "You are my hero," she says, voice lowering just a fraction.

Tori bit back a smile, caught between emotions. "I miss you too."

"Then hurry up," Jade replied, her voice a playful whisper. "I'll be waiting here for you, Chancellor." She paused, "Hey… Um… I have a rare night off soon. Wouldn't mind a little extra company."

Tori laughs, her heart lifting. "What are you thinking?"

"I don't Know… a date night. Over video chat. a little wine, some conversation… you know, like any normal long distance relationship."

"I'd like that." Tori said, her voice an intimate mutter. She was like she was as a tee. All enamored with this beautiful girl. And she couldn't shout it from the roof tops. But she was hers.

"Good," Jade whispers. And for a moment, Tori felt as if she's right there with her, the two of them alone, the rest of the world fading.

March 15

Cleveland, OH

Jade sat in her campaign office, surrounded by staff running through schedules and strategy. They've been pushing hard through the Midwest swing, and Jade feels every bit of it, but she wouldn't let it show. Instead, she focused on the bundle of notes in front of her, detailing upcoming town halls, interviews, and stump speeches.

She had swept Super Tuesday with the exception of North Carolina , Texas, Tennessee, and Alabama. Yeah she was super liberal, so she got it. But the races were close, and some of her pe4ers had dropped from here. Super Tuesday was huge and she was so glad to be over that hump.

Now she was working in Ohio. not the best place for liberals like her, but neither was Kansas where she would be tomorrow, and Louisiana where she had been yesterday. Her last stop for the primaries was going to be Illinois. That would be easy… theoretically.

"Momma," a small voice said, breaking her focus. She looked down to see Luke standing beside her, his little hands reaching up with that unmistakable determination to join her.

She grinned, her whole demeanor softening. "Well, well, look who's here," she murmured, lifting him up onto her lap as he cuddled into her, completely unaware of the meeting happening around him. His hands reached for her papers, eagerly swiping at the notes and tabs, little fingers playing with them like toys.

Jade whispered to him, "Someday, you're going to help me with these for real." Luke smiled up at his mother adoringly, and across the room, a campaign staffer snapped a photo, catching Jade mid-laugh, with Luke perched on her lap, oblivious to the political hustle around them. It's the kind of shot they'll use on campaign posters, a picture-perfect blend of strength and softness, Jade as a leader, but also as a mom.

Later that evening, after hours of campaign meetings and event prep, Jade headed back to the quiet calm of her room in the hotel. She kissed her kids goodnight—Luke, Ivy, and Hazel, had come to be with her these few days in the Midwest. For a brief moment, she lingered, watching them breathe peacefully. They're her heart, her reason for all of this.

With a sigh she turned to where her bed was, letting Secret service know she was going to sleep, and she undressed to get comfortable. She pulled her laptop out and started it up as she got ready.

Finally alone in her room, Jade settled into bed, anticipation prickling as she sets up for her call with Tori. It'd been a long day, and this connection with Tori was the one bright spot, a moment that's all hers.

As soon as Tori's face appeared on the screen, Jade felt the tension of the day dissolve. "Hey, gorgeous," Tori purred, her smile deepening as she took in the sight of Jade unwinding, her hair falling loose, eyes soft.

"Hey yourself," Jade murmured, her voice low. They ease into a slow rhythm, voices soft, teasing, the kind of intimacy that's heightened by the distance between them. Jade's smile widens as Tori leaned closer to the camera, her eyes glinting with mischief.

Jade bit her lip. "I need your help." She murmured.

"Oh yeah? Tori asked

"I need you to help me … release some stress." Jade stated suggestively.

"Oh, I'd be happy to help." Tori answered and Jade watched as the tan woman opened the sleeping robe, she wore revealing gorgeous full breasts. A set that Jade couldn't comprehend how gravity is defeated by them. She moaned softly removing her own shirt, having discarded the bra with her work clothes just before the call.

"Oh god… I wish you were here." Jade whispered.

"Touch yourself for me." Tori said. "I wish I could see your hand."

Jade did draw the line at lower nudity on camera. She felt that breasts were easier to explain away than other parts were any of this to leak. she was the president. Yes, she trusted Tori and she hated that their positions made this very hot encounter sub par. But she did as she was told and she groaned. And Tori told her what to do. "Rub it in circles." she said in a sensual whisper and Jade moaned as she was pleased. Just the sound of Tori's voice did things to her.

But then, a small voice broke through. "Momma?" Jade stilled her hands and jerked her head up as Luke stood in the doorway, rubbing his eyes and looking adorably lost in his pajamas.

Jade quickly pulled her blanket up, biting back a laugh. "Hold on," she whispered to Tori, her cheeks flushing. She quickly pulled on her oversized night shirt and slid out of bed. Then she lifted Luke into her arms, his small hands clinging to her, his face nestled into her shoulder.

"Who's that?" Tori's voice comes softly through the speaker, curiosity and affection blended. She had taken the opportunity to close her robe when Jade was off camera.

Jade looked back at the screen, smiling. "Tori, meet Luke," she said, gently turning him toward the camera.

Tori's face lit up, and she gave a little wave. "Hey, Luke! You're up late, aren't you?"

Luke stares at the screen, wide-eyed, then gives a shy little wave back before tucking his face into Jade's neck.

Jade grins, smoothing a hand over Luke's back as she looks back at Tori. "Guess the video call's been cut short tonight."

Tori chuckled softly. "Just as well—wouldn't want to traumatize the poor guy. But next time, I expect your full attention, Madam President."

Jade laughed, glancing down at Luke and whispering to him as she rocked him gently. "Did you have a nightmare?"

He nodded. "I want to go home."

"You go home tomorrow. So you can stay with daddy." she says softly, brushing his hair back. And, as she looks back at Tori, the warmth between them is unmistakable. "Talk to you tomorrow?"

"Yes ma'am" Tori said and left the chat the picture of mother and son burned into her mind.

April 5

Yerba, Outside the Government Building

Tori stood at the front of a packed arena. Taking in the mix of eager faces- young, old, experienced, and newly energized people ready to form a more perfect republic. They were doing something historic, something worth making the world stand up and take note. Yerba's first free election in decades was bound to start and there were quite a few candidates, with the inclusion of General Vega, the liberator. The one person who stood by the Chancellor's side as she sought to open Yerba up to a better place.

She is exhausted, and it shows but she is so happy of the direction this is taking.

"You're all here because you believe in a better Yerba," Tori says, her voice carrying across the crowded room. "And because we're tired of seeing our country controlled by the interests of a select few. This election isn't just about voting someone out. It's about voting for each other—each and every one of you. For the future we've dreamed about and deserve."

The volunteers applauded, their energy rekindling her own. She took a step back, nodding, as her sister Trina pulled her aside, an arm slung over Tori's shoulders.

"This is our last push, Tori," Trina said with a proud grin, "You can almost see the finish line."

Tori chuckled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Only because you're dragging me there. But you're the one they're voting for, Madam Future Prime Minister."

Trina laughs, elbowing Tori playfully. "I'm only here because you toppled the regime. Besides, Carlos Vicente is the one doing the heavy lifting on the ground. He's been brilliant with the volunteers and local leaders." Her face softened. "But hey, it's going to be different this time. Real leadership. We're so close."

"You're the Liberator." Tori said with a smirk.

Tori nodded, glancing down as her phone buzzed with a new message. She stifled a smile, seeing Jade's name lighting up the screen. Just knowing Jade's there, across the world, rooting for her, brings a warmth to her chest.

Trina eyed the screen with a knowing smirk. "And that look on your face. No prizes for guessing who that's from."

Tori rolled her eyes but didn't hide her grin. "Yeah, yeah. Just checking in."

"Just checking in," Trina teased, then sighed, squeezing her sister's arm. "Well, tell her thanks from all of us. Yerba wouldn't be here without everything she's done to keep things steady internationally while we sort things out here."

Tori nodded, feeling a pang of emotion. "She's been there every step. And once this is all over, Trina, once you're officially Prime Minister, I'm hoping—" she pauses, but Trina's nodding already, her expression softened with understanding.

"Go, Tori," Trina says softly. "When the dust settles, live your life. We'll be here." With her sister's permission, she had allowed herself a deep breath, a glimpse of life beyond these intense days. Her future with Jade.

May 20

New York City, NY

The debate stage was alive with anticipation as six Democratic candidates, each vying for the party's nomination, stood poised at their podiums, ready for what would be one of the most intense nights of the campaign season. Just a head of the Oregon Primary, and the remaining six or so primaries Jade had done so much preparing outside of her official duties. She hadn't slept a lot, but that was par for the course. Jade took a deep breath, bracing herself. She could feel the eyes of the audience and media, all eager to scrutinize every word. Behind her, the darkened auditorium buzzed with a quiet energy.

The moderator's voice cut through the air, authoritative and clear. "Thank you all for joining us tonight. We're here to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing our nation, and we'll hear from each candidate. We'll start with you, Madame President."

Jade straightened as the first question was directed her way. "Madame President, you've advocated for a universal healthcare system. But there are concerns about the costs. How do you plan to fund this initiative?"

Jade leaned in, calm and collected, her voice carrying across the room. "Thank you for the question. Universal healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege, and one that we can achieve. We'll fund it by reforming the tax code to close loopholes that let corporations dodge their fair share, and we'll reinvest defense funds into our people. We've seen throughout history that investing in health directly correlates with a more productive economy and a more secure nation."

A former governor with a pragmatic air took the opportunity to counter, addressing her with a polite but pointed tone. "Madame President, you're proposing what's essentially a massive government overhaul. Can you really promise this when our economy's growth has only just stabilized?"

Without missing a beat, Jade responded, "With all due respect, we cannot afford to keep aiming low. If we're ever going to tackle our country's structural issues, we have to make bold choices. Remember what we achieved under the Obama administration: progress during crises. I'm not here to maintain the status quo; I'm here to create the future we need."

The room erupted again, and a few of her opponents shifted uncomfortably at the swell of approval. The debate moved on to climate change, a topic that spurred a passionate response in Jade.

The moderator directed the question, "Madame President, what will you do to address the climate emergency in a way that's both effective and financially sustainable?"

Jade leaned forward, conviction brightening her face. "Climate change isn't just a crisis—it's an opportunity to transform our economy. My administration has already invested in green jobs and renewable energy initiatives, but we have to go further. We must commit to cutting emissions, holding corporations accountable, and ensuring every community, rural and urban alike, has a chance to thrive in a greener economy. We don't have the luxury of waiting."

A loud round of applause erupted from the audience, and Jade could feel a surge of confidence. She was doing it—speaking her truth, advocating for what she believed in. Yet, despite the intensity and the energy around her, she found herself wishing for Tori beside her.

The debate finally concluded, and as Jade left the stage with her team, her advisor walked up, patting her on the back. "Great job, Madame President. You really nailed the healthcare and climate sections."

Jade smiled, nodding, but her thoughts were elsewhere, focused on the phone call she'd promised herself she'd make tonight.

Back in her hotel room, Jade settled onto the bed, tapping on her phone. Within seconds, Tori's face filled the screen, her features soft in the dim light, eyes twinkling with warmth.

"How'd it go?" Tori's voice held a mixture of excitement and pride.

"Good. I think I held my own," Jade said, smiling. "But honestly, I just wish you could be here. What I wouldn't give to have you with me tonight."

Tori's laughter was gentle, filled with affection. "You don't need to give me anything, except that victory. But I promise, as soon as you win, I'm all yours."

They sat there, lost in each other's gaze despite the screen between them. "Soon," Jade whispered, her hand reaching up to the screen as if she could bridge the distance. "Soon, we'll make that happen."

June 3

Yerba, Tori's Home

It was dusk, and inside the house, laughter drifted through the hallways as Trina fussed over her twins, both clamoring for her attention. Tori's home felt alive, filled with family in a way it hadn't in years. Sirrah had brought her younger cousins bsck to their mother, and Trina looked overjoyed to see her children, immersing herself in their hugs and stories. Tori couldn't stop smiling—having Sirrah home was a rare blessing, and seeing the whole family together gave her a deep, quiet contentment she hadn't felt in a long time.

But even surrounded by family, there was a piece missing. Jade was on her mind, her voice an echo that Tori had been waiting all day to hear. By nine o'clock in Washington, D.C., Tori couldn't hold back any longer. She slipped out quietly into the garden, her phone in hand, and dialed Jade's number.

Jade picked up almost immediately, her voice warm and familiar. "Hey there," she said, her smile almost tangible through the phone.

Tori felt her pulse quicken at the sound of her voice. "Hey yourself. I've been waiting all day to hear that."

"Rough day?" Jade asked softly, her tone filled with concern.

"No… it's been wonderful," Tori admitted, glancing back toward the house where her family gathered. "Sirrah's home. Trina, the twins—everyone's here, and the house feels so… full."

"That sounds perfect," Jade replied. "But you sound sad. Do you miss me?"

Tori closed her eyes, a small sigh escaping her lips. "More than you know. It feels wrong to be so close to happiness and not have you here."

"Believe me, I feel the same," Jade whispered. "But soon. We just have to hold out a little longer."

A comfortable silence fell between them, neither wanting to end the call. Tori could almost imagine Jade was there with her, standing under the soft glow of the stars in the garden.

"I can't wait to see you again," Tori murmured. "You make everything feel easier, even from so far away."

"You do that for me, too," Jade replied, her voice like a caress. "One day, I'll be there with you—no screens, no miles between us."

Tori laughed softly. "That's a promise, right?"

"A promise," Jade confirmed, her voice filled with warmth and longing. They lingered in the quiet, sharing their unspoken feelings until the call finally ended.

As Tori made her way back inside, she caught sight of Sirrah in the hallway, her daughter's face slightly flushed, her expression curious.

"Mama," Sirrah began, raising an eyebrow as she looked at Tori, "I have to ask… is there someone new in your life?"

Tori blinked, her lips curving into a faint smile. "And what makes you think that?"

Sirrah leaned against the wall, crossing her arms with a smirk. "Because I saw you out there, talking in that way you do. And you were… laughing. You only do that when you're really happy."

A flicker of surprise crossed Tori's face, though she quickly masked it with a shrug. "And you assume that means I have a lover?"

Sirrah rolled her eyes, but her gaze remained sharp. "Well, yeah. So… who is she?"

Tori hesitated for a moment, then relented, giving Sirrah a half-smile. "You really want to know?"

"Of course," Sirrah replied, leaning in eagerly.

"Well…" Tori said, her voice dropping to a whisper as if sharing a secret, "it's the President of the United States."

Sirrah's eyes went wide, her jaw dropping in disbelief. "Wait… The ? Secret service, big white house… that president? Are you serious?"

Tori chuckled softly, nodding. "Yes. And before you ask, it's a lot to manage, but yes, we're together."

Sirrah gaped, then broke into a wide grin. "I knew you'd surprise me someday, but wow. The President? You don't do anything halfway, do you?"

"No," Tori laughed, her voice warm. "No, I don't."

"But…" Sirrah's brow furrowed as she crossed her arms. "Isn't she married?"

Tori shook her head, her heart aching at the misunderstanding. "No, Sirrah. She's not. She's divorced. It's just… complicated with the public eye and everything."

Sirrah's expression softened, a mix of understanding and concern. "So you're serious about her, then?"

"Yeah," Tori replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "I really am."

"Wow. So, do you think she'd come here? Like, for the election certification?" Sirrah suggested, her excitement bubbling. "It would be great to have her there. Having the President of the United States, the UK Prime Minister, and the German Prime Minister all present—it would legitimize the democracy for the Yerbanians. They need to see those good examples of a democratic republic."

Tori considered this, her heart swelling at the thought. "That could be amazing. It would show the people of Yerba that we have international support, that we're not alone in this transition."

"Exactly!" Sirrah exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious. "You should totally ask he to comer. And the two of you can have a little time together while she is here. Plus, It would mean so much to everyone."

"I think that's a great idea," Tori said, a newfound determination blooming within her. "I'll call her tomorrow and see if she's able to come."

As Sirrah turned to rejoin the family, Tori felt a little thrill inside. She would have Jade come see her here.

June 20

Austin, TX - Pride Rally

Jade stands tall on the stage, the fierce Texas sun beating down on her, but the energy of the crowd fuels her. A rainbow of flags waves back at her, and the crowd stretches out like a tapestry of every color. Behind her, Luke holds a tiny flag in his hand, Ivy tries to keep him steady, and Hazel, her oldest, stands proudly in her rainbow gear. The love radiates from her family, and for a moment, Jade just takes it all in, heart swelling. She adjusts the mic, voice strong and clear.

"Thank you, Austin!" Her greeting is met with cheers, the crowd alive with pride. "It's an honor to be here today, at a time when we're still fighting for what should be simple, undeniable freedoms: to be ourselves, to live and love without fear, and to protect those rights from ever being stripped away again. Because the truth is, these rights—these freedoms—they're personal."

Jade glances over her shoulder at Hazel, beaming as her daughter smiles back, eyes bright, reflecting her pride. "My daughter Hazel stands behind me today, rocking her rainbow gear, because she knows we aren't just allies; we're a family that stands together, that stands proud. And I want her to know, and every one of you to know, that my support for this community—our community—isn't just policy; it's personal, it's who I am, and it's who I've always been."

The crowd cheers, some already on their feet, clapping and calling her name. Jade takes a breath, deciding it's time to address the headlines head-on. "Some of you may have read the rumors. Yeah, the ones about me and the Chancellor of Yerba." A wave of laughter and whistles ripples through the crowd, and Jade smirks, a gleam in her eye. "Chancellor Vega was the love of my life when I was a teenager. And here I am, decades later, addressing a relationship that happened so long ago between two very young women."

"And I've never lied to you." She lets the crowd respond, watching their faces as her words settle in. "I've been a proud bisexual woman my whole life. I never hid that from the American people, and I'm not about to start now. Because in America, we shouldn't have to hide who we are or who we love. It's our right, our freedom, and that freedom is sacred."

Jade pauses, catching her breath and searching the sea of faces before her. "Now, listen—I'm not saying I knew back then that my friend VIctoria, would grow up to become a dictator, any more that I could say I knew I would grow up to be your president. But the CHancellor is makingl strides in democratizing her government. And I aim to support my old friend in her efforts."

Sobering slightly, Jade's voice gains an edge of conviction as she pivots. "But today, we also stand in solidarity with those around the world who are fighting for their own voices, their own democracy. You may have seen the developments in Yerba, where they're fighting for a government led by the people. A few weeks from now, I'll be there in Yerba, standing alongside leaders from the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Germany, to witness the certification of their first true election. This is a moment in history, and it's a reminder that freedom and democracy—just like the freedoms we celebrate here today—are fought for every day."

The crowd's energy swells with her words, a surge of hope and pride electrifying the air. Jade lets a mischievous grin spread across her face, as she hears someone in the crowd point out how hot Tori is. "She is… now I would not say no to a date? I am single…" playing into the media's longstanding jest about the Chancellor's undeniable allure. The crowd roars with laughter, and she takes the moment to revel in their support.

"So today," Jade concludes, "let's stand proud, and let's keep fighting. Fighting for our right to love openly, to live freely, and to ensure that every person in this country and around the world can do the same. Because until every person is free—truly free—our work isn't done."

With a final wave, she steps back, and the crowd erupts in applause, chanting her name. Behind her, Luke claps with a big grin, Ivy and Hazel hugging each other, while Jade looks on at her children, her family—her pride and her purpose. And in the vibrant light of the rally, with her family behind her and her voice heard, she knows they're creating something bigger than a campaign; they're fighting for a future.

June 30

Yerba, Government Square

Excitement thrummed in the air in Yerba, as people from all walks of life flood the square, each face etched with hope and anticipation. Trina stood tall at the podium, her voice clear and strong as it carried over the crowd, delivering her final speech on the eve of Yerba's first free elections. Her words are filled with promise, a vision of unity and prosperity that reflects her fierce commitment to leading her country forward.

Tori stood beside her, and for the first time in months, her shoulders feel lighter. She watched her sister's impassioned plea to the people of Yerba, the fire in her eyes as she spoke of freedom, equality, and a new beginning. Tori felt a sense of pride swelling in her chest, mingled with the kind of relief that only comes when a long battle is finally coming to an end. It's real, she thinks. The power is truly transferring. And, finally, she can step back.

As Trina's speech crescendoed to its conclusion, the crowd erupted in applause, cheers of support echoing off the walls of the square. Tori let herself sink into the moment, the weight of the past few years melting away. This is Trina's moment. It's Yerba's moment.

Then, her phone buzzed in her pocket, pulling her out of her thoughts. She glances down at the screen, her heart giving an involuntary flutter when she saw Jade's name. Excusing herself from the stage, she steppeds aside to answer, pressing the phone to her ear.

"Tori." Jade's voice is soft, carrying a warmth that reached across the miles between them. "I just saw the feed—Trina's speech was beautiful. You're both making history."

A smile broke across Tori's face, one she couldn't hide. "Thank you, Jade. I… I really needed to hear that."

"You've done more for Yerba than anyone could have imagined. You've set them free—and now, you get to be free too." Jade said softly

Tori closed her eyes, letting Jade's words wash over her, filling the hollow spaces that fear and exhaustion had left behind. She had been doubting the worth of every sacrifice. But hearing Jade's quiet confidence… she started to believe it, just a little. She's no longer alone in her hope.

"Jade," Tori said, her voice almost a whisper, "I wish you could be here. I feel like… like this is just the beginning."

There's a pause on the other end, and Tori can almost picture Jade's thoughtful smile. "I'll be there in ten days. And maybe this really is just the beginning—for both of us."

"I can't wait."