Fractured Bonds

17 -Emma

Present

I landed in Montana, excitement bubbling inside me as I stepped off the plane. Mike was waiting for me at the airport, a grin spreading across his face when he saw me. I hadn't told Jake I was coming early; I wanted to surprise him. Mike helped me with my bags, and we headed to the car.

We exited the airport, and I was choosing the music for the drive when Mike, after about a hundred glances, spoke up, "So, how are things going between you and Jake? He seems much happier these days. Did you guys finally make up? Have you talked about that day yet?"

I sigh, shaking my head. "We've made up. No, we haven't talked about it yet. There's still a lot we need to discuss."

Mike nodded thoughtfully. "Well, it's good to see you both in a better place. Just take your time."

"You know, it's funny or ironic or whatever, but if it weren't for your mom—who doesn't know anything about what happened, and I would like to keep it that way, I don't think Jake and I would've ever talked it out. Kathleen asking me to convince Jake was what led us to throw everything out in the open and see if we still work." I say as I put on some sunscreen. Brown skin tan isn't that great.

Mike looks at me and says, "Really? My mom? Wow, I guess we owe her a thank you."

I smile, "Yeah, I guess I do."

Halfway through the drive towards the house, I spotted an adorable bakery with a charming, rustic sign. "Mike, stop! Look at that bakery!" I exclaimed, pointing eagerly.

Mike abruptly pulled over and laughed, causing a slight jolt. "Alright, alright, let's get you some donuts," he said, shaking his head with amusement.

We walked into the bakery, the smell of fresh pastries making my mouth water. I picked out a dozen donuts, planning to share them with Jake. But as we continued our drive, the temptation was too strong. One by one, I devoured the donuts, unable to resist their sugary goodness.

By the time we reached the house, the box was empty, and I felt a mix of satisfaction and guilt. Mike glanced at the empty box and burst out laughing. "Guess Jake's not getting any donuts, huh?"

I joined in his laughter, feeling a bit sheepish. "I'll just have to get more before he finds out," I said, grinning. The surprise was still on, and I couldn't wait to see Jake's reaction.

We finally arrived at the house, and I quickly discarded the empty donut box, hoping Jake wouldn't notice. Mike chuckled as he watched me try to hide the evidence.

"Alright, Mike, text Jake and tell him to come home," I said, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves.

Mike pulled out his phone, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Sure thing," he said, typing away. "I'll send it in a way that won't make him suspicious."

I raised an eyebrow, curious. "What are you planning?"

He grinned, holding up his phone. "Just trust me. He won't suspect a thing."

I took a deep breath, looking around the familiar surroundings. It felt good to be back, and I couldn't wait to see Jake's reaction to my surprise. As we waited, I busied myself tidying up a bit, trying to keep my mind off the anticipation.

"He's on his way," Mike announced, putting his phone away. "You ready?"

I nodded, a smile spreading across my face. "Absolutely. Let's do this."

We settled in, waiting for Jake to walk through the door, the excitement building with each passing minute.

"He's here! He's here! Should I open the door or will you?" I start jumping around like a kid as I peek through the curtain and see Jake parking the car.

"I'll get it," I say, unable to contain my excitement. I rush to the door and open it just as Jake is looking down at his phone, an earphone in one ear.

"Hey, Mike," Jake says absentmindedly, stepping inside without looking up. He walks into the living room, still focused on his phone.

I watch as he glances up and sees Mike sitting on the sofa. Jake frowns, confused. "How did you get to the couch so fast after opening the door?"

Mike smirks and nods towards me. "I didn't open the door, bro."

Jake turns around, and his eyes widen in surprise when he sees me standing there, sheepishly smiling. "Emma?" he says, his voice filled with disbelief and joy.

Before I can say anything, Jake crosses the room in a few quick strides, scoops me up in his arms, and spins me around. "I can't believe you're here!" he exclaims, his face lighting up with happiness.

I laugh, wrapping my arms around his neck. "Surprise! I couldn't wait any longer to see you so I finished most of my work and came here."

Jake sets me down gently, still holding me close. "This is the best surprise ever," he says, kissing me softly. "I've missed you so much."

"I've missed you too," I reply, feeling a sense of contentment wash over me. Being in Jake's arms again makes everything feel right.

Mike clears his throat, grinning. "Alright, lovebirds, let's catch up. We've got a lot to talk about."

We all settle into the huge couch, Jake and I cuddle close, while Mike sprawls comfortably on the other end. The warmth and familiarity of the moment make everything feel right.

Mike breaks the silence, his tone curious. "So, are you guys ever going to tell Mom and Dad about what happened? And have you told Emma's parents?"

I feel Jake tense slightly beside me. I take a deep breath and answer, "We're not in a position to talk about it right now. One day, we'll tell everyone, but we're not ready yet. Only those who already know are in the loop for now."

Mike nods, understanding. "Fair enough. Just wanted to know where you guys stand. Speaking of standing, I'm gonna head out, Mom and Dad will soon come back home from the hospital, and I'd better head there." He stands, goes towards the door waves at us and leaves the house, he's awkwardly funny sometimes, like a more emotionally open Jake similar to Henry in terms of his looks, while Jake is more like his mom.

Just then, my phone buzzes with a call from an unknown number. I glance at it and immediately recognize the number, but I decline the call without hesitation. Jake notices and looks at me, concerned. "Who was that?"

I shake my head, trying to brush it off. "No one. Don't worry about it."

Jake's eyes search mine for a moment, but he lets it go, trusting my judgment. We return to our comfortable silence.

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