Through The Pieces (14 page)

Epilogue

Claire

It's hard to believe it has been over a year since I was shot. Maggie just finished first grade. Buck takes her fishing like he promised. They go every chance they get. I even tried a few times, but I "suck" at it, as the two of them often remind me. Scott is in prison for a long time. Jenny, we found out, had her part in it, but I did not press charges against her. Luckily for us, she moved away. She was a just as much a victim in this as I was.

I hear the tell-tale signs that Will is waking up, and since Buck was on baby duty last night, I detangle myself from him to let him sleep and quietly slip into the nursery. William Matthew Buckingham is almost four months old. He looks just like his Daddy, with dark hair and blue eyes. William spies me through the wooden slats in his crib and a big smile--his daddy’s smile--spreads across his face.

"Hey, big guy." I reach down and pull him into my arms, reveling in his baby smell. We named him after his father, Buck having finally come to terms with making his name mean something good.  I sit down in a rocking chair and listen to Will coo at me. When he has had enough cooing, he lets me know it's time to eat. I begin to breastfeed my darling little boy as Buck pops his head in.

"Good morning."

I smiled at him. "Hey, I thought you would sleep in a little."

"Not when today I get to marry the love of my life."

"If I show up."

"Oh, you'll show up. If not for the free food, for the two-day honeymoon with me worshiping every inch of your body."

My insides grew warm at the thought of spending two days naked with my husband. "Mmm, you know I really didn't have much else going on," I laughed.

Buck came over and kissed my head. "I love you Lotus."

Sometimes the life you want takes a while to get.

Sometimes you fall for the wrong man but then find the right one.

Sometimes the man you love will help save you.

Sometimes you have to leave the shattered pieces and move on.

Acknowledgements

   A lot of people have helped me along the way, from my first critique partner to the amazing authors I have met along the way. Without your support and guidance I never would have gotten this far. 

To my family Dan, Andrew, and Trevor I love you more than you will ever know. Thank you for settling on quick meals and letting me pour into this book with little distraction. I owe you each your favorite meal!

My parents, Merry Ewert and Sheldon Green, you created me! Without your years of wisdom and constant acceptance I would never have become the woman I am today. Thank you! My step parents, Jerry Ewert and Rhonda Petroselli you have brought happiness into my life.

My sisters, Andrea, Kelly, Molly, and Tina, I love you always! You have been my backbone when I couldn’t stand on my own two feet. We may not see eye to eye or get to spend as much time with each other as we like, but there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of you!

My former Boss! Jamie Kratz-Gullickson you have given me the opportunity to shine. You took a chance once and because of it I doing what I always dreamt of. You give hope and inspiration to those around you and you are one heck of an editor! 

My coworkers, Teresa, Ashley, Angie, Jess, and Melissa, you ladies are the real superheroes of the world! You have brought me laughter to the point of tears and wetting my pants, compassion to the victims you serve, acceptance with all of our quirks, and the best lunchtime banter ever!

My editor Ellen Abernathy, you took a chance on me and improved so many things in my writing. Thanks for taking a book that was so rough and making it shine.

Zach Higginison the talented cover designer at Caedus Designs Co., thank you so much for being a creative genius. 

Kristie Smits, you have been my biggest fan, you are a sister of my heart!

Nicole Nowicki, you encouraged me to continue and you were the first person I shared my story with.

Veronica Williams, you have helped me in so many ways. From your fabulous giveaways that have introduced me to many people, to your virtual friendship.

My Street Team, we are a young group but I can't thank you enough for your support. You are the heart of Bobbi's Beauties!

About the Author

Bobbi Jo Bentz is a self-published writer of romance, suspense and thrillers, is as much an avid reader as an enthusiastic storyteller and is a fan of Horror and Marvel movies. Aside from her writing, Bobbi Jo is passionate about hiking, feminism and a good cup of coffee. Known for her sense of humor, Bobbi Jo often finds ways to laugh, sometimes in the most inopportune moments. Yet, Bobbi Jo has a strong balance of positive energy with a recognition of serious issues. Working full-time as a family advocate at a local Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Shelter has enlightened Bobbi Jo on the emotions of victims and brought out the serious aspect of her personality. As she continues to be inspired by her work, hobbies and loved ones, Bobbi Jo will keep writing and releasing books.

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