Colton
It’s been two weeks since Vinny’s death. Saying goodbye to Vinny was just as hard as it was saying it to my father. I spent a few minutes with him alone, then Alexandra joined me. She’s just as broken as I am.
Franny came back in after a while, and she stayed with him for as long as she could. It’s a damn shame they never got a chance to be a real couple, out in the open, doing regular couple stuff.
Alexandra and I planned Vinny’s funeral. Almost everyone who knew him came out to pay their respects. The one person who I thought would be front and center didn’t attend. Franny.
It’s as if she’s fallen off the face of the earth. No one has seen or heard from her since the night in the morgue.
We’re worried about her, but with Dagger’s trial coming up soon, we hope she’s there to testify against him.
Alexandra and I are talking about moving in together. My place isn’t appropriate, since it’s above the shop and, quite frankly, her place is a little small.
My woman suggested we look at buying a house from Emily, since she’s a real estate agent. I was shocked when she mentioned it. We love each other and I know I’ll marry her someday, but I just want to make sure she’s ready.
* * *
Alexandra
Two months later
Colton and I bought a house from Emily two months ago. It’s in the same neighborhood as her and my sister. The six of us hang out together almost every weekend, but I won’t lie, there’s something missing. Rather, two people are missing…Vinny and Franny.
There are some good things going on, though. Daniel and Nicole are talking about marriage and joked that Colton and I should share in a double wedding.
I put the brakes on that, at least for now. Colton and I are just getting used to living together, and it’s been great. Colton’s shop is doing well. My career is picking up, now that I don’t have to worry about Miller and Anderson.
I’ve won each case I’ve tried. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my sister and Colton.
Last year, at this time, I thought my life was over. Little did I know, I’d have a job I enjoy and a man who loves me. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing, but I’m damn excited to see what the next year brings.
* * *
Vinny
One year later…
I made the right choice, I keep telling myself. If I didn’t take the FBI deal and go into Witness Protection, Franny would’ve been in more danger. Do I miss her and my friends? Fuck yeah, I do, but it’s a small price to pay to make sure the ones I love are safe.
I’ve been in Idaho for almost a year now. I’m getting more comfortable in my new career and identity, but without Franny, I’ll never be whole. I just hope she’s living a life she deserves. That’s all you want when you love someone.