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“I’m sorry to disturb the party, but I heard Piper had been released from the hospital.” Shawn took a deep breath, nerves flashing across his face as his gaze jumped between Jackson and Piper. “I want to apologize. I had no idea what my father had done. He?—”

His voice choked off.

Piper rose from the chair and gave him a hug. “You aren’t responsible for your father’s actions. There’s nothing for you to apologize for.” She pulled back. “If you hadn’t given us the information leading to the cabin, who knows how long it would’ve taken us to capture Wally and Todd. I’m grateful to you.”

Shawn breathed out, obviously overcome with emotion. “That’s more kindness than I deserve. Thank you, Piper.”

“I hope you and I can bury the hatchet. For good this time.” She wrapped an arm around Jackson’s waist. “There’s no reason we all can’t be friends.”

Jackson nodded and clapped Shawn on the shoulder. “I’m sorry for everything you’ve been through.”

“Some of it was of my own making. I’ve spent a long time in prayer after speaking with my pastor. Melanie and I are going to marriage counseling. We’ve made a lot of mistakes, and I don’t know if things can be saved, but we discovered we want to try. For us and for our kids.” His expression hardened. “Now that my father is out of the picture, I think we have a fighting chance.”

“I’m glad,” Jackson said. “I wish you and Melanie all the best.”

“Thanks.”

Shawn gave each of them a handshake and then he walked away.

Piper rested her head on Jackson’s shoulder. “Do you think they’ll make it work?”

He brushed a kiss across her forehead. “I believe in second chances and new beginnings, so yes. If they want it badly enough, with God’s help, they’ll find a way.”

She tilted her head up, and their eyes met. Jackson was transfixed by the love in her eyes. They were in a crowded room of people, but he couldn’t resist kissing her. It was light and quick, but his heart still skipped several beats.

“Ugh, get a room.” Ava announced as she drew closer, Derek at her side.

Piper laughed, brushing a strand of hair off her forehead. “You are so annoying.”

Ava’s eyes widened. She grabbed Piper’s hand and held it, her mouth dropping open. “Is this an engagement ring?”

Jackson grinned, letting his voice carry across the room. “A room full of law enforcement and it’s the civilian who noticed the engagement ring.”

Ava squealed with joy and embraced Piper. A crowd gathered to congratulate them. It was a whirlwind of excitement, and hours later, when the party was finally over, Jackson helped his fiancée into the SUV. “Did you have a good time?”

She rested her head against the seat and smiled at him. “The best.” She grabbed his shirt and tugged him closer. A mischievous twinkle sparked in her eyes. “But do you want to know what my favorite part was?”

“What?”

“Being with you.” She nudged her nose against his. “Kiss me, Barker.”

His breath stalled and then he smiled. “You got it, Jensen.”