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She leaned against the couch. “So there’s no more crime organization?”

“The Trogyn is gone, and the Claude family and their associates are scrambling from all the scrutiny, lawsuits, and people backing out of their businesses. The government is cleaning house at the CIA. It’s going to be hard for the American people to trust their government again.”

“What about Harris Foods LLC and Pharmaceuticals?”

“Thanks to you and the girls, we shut down over two hundred businesses associated with the Harris companies, and the owners are cooperating with the officials. Not only that, but Detective Farmer has also been appointed the lead investigator. He’s put together a great team. We can trust he’ll deliver the justice everyone deserves.”

Vaness swallowed. “What happened to the bodies?”

“Farm animals got them,” I said, not wanting her to know the details of Calvin’s farm.

“What kind?”

“Alligators, tigers, wolves.”

“Those aren’t farm animals!” she exclaimed. “Are you referring to a different farm?”

“Verydifferent.”

She looked at me for a moment. “We need honorable men and women to hold office. The country needs change. The world needs change.”

“Maybe this will inspire people to step up. But who knows? Politics is its own monster. The Trogyn was one of many.” I sighed. “I’m tired of fighting, of planning—of watching my back.”

“You’ve avenged all the victims of The Trogyn.” She turned and cupped the side of my face. “You and your friends saved a lot of people.”

“You had a huge role in it too.” I gripped her hand. “If you’re not safe or happy, there’s no point in saving the world, Vanessa.” I looked her in the eye. “You reached into my heart andrepainted it a beautiful color.” Her eyes softened on me. “You’re the varnish that prevented my tattered soul from fraying.”

“Attikus.” Tears welled in her eyes.

“Our home is cold and lonely without you. I’ve been replaying our time together.” My heart quickened with emotion. “In the quiet, I can hear myself. Most of all, I can hear your heart beating for me. You’ve been through a lot because of me. I’m sorry I hurt you.”

“I was ready to die with Madeline that day,” she confessed. “I didn’t know how to make the pain stop. I thought if I watched her die, it would make me feel better.”

“I faked my death to protect you, but I didn’t realize my plan pushed you front and center of danger.” Guilt multiplied in my stomach. “I watched your every move, so I know the pain I’ve bestowed on you. My cameras were placed all over the hotel, which I owned under an alias. I had to ensure you and the girls were safe.”

I kissed her hand. She didn’t yank it back, which was a good sign.

“You know, the boys and I would’ve gotten the President and Madeline from the confessions of the people they worked with or blackmailed. But when I saw your plan, I revised ours. Yours was better.”

She smirked. “That just means you should never keep your plans from your wife.”

“Never again. I learned my lesson.”

“We’ve weathered a major storm.” She stared at our joined hands.

“Your mom knew the truth, but I asked her not to tell you.”

“That’s why she agreed to stay home that day. Did she tell you about my plan?”

I nodded. “She had to. She didn’t want to risk you getting hurt. I gave her my word I’d keep you safe.”

“I love you.” She looked at me. “But I need you to do something for me to earn the ultimate forgiveness.”

A tremendous burden slid off my chest. I’d do anything for her. But the amusement in her eyes made me cautious about declaring that.

“Audri and Natalie already forgave their significant other,” I said.

She leveled a stare at me. “They’ve been together a lot longer than we have.” Her eyes narrowed with a hint of wickedness. “Plus, I’m not as forgiving as they are. I need my man to put in the work.”