Page 99 of Jolt's Vengeance

Same dark blond hair, same green eyes that run in our family.

But there are new lines around his eyes, a few more scars.

Time hasn't stood still for either of us.

"How long you here for?" I ask, my voice rough with emotion I'm struggling to contain.

"Few days," Victor replies, clapping me on the shoulder. "Gotta head back home after that. But I'm all yours 'til then."

I shake my head, still reeling. "How the fuck did this happen? I mean, not that I'm complaining, but?—"

Victor's eyes slide past me, settling on something—or someone—behind me.

His lips quirk up in a knowing smile. "Your ol' lady made a call. Got me out here as a Christmas gift to you."

I turn, following his gaze to Aggie.

She's watching us with a soft smile, her eyes shining.

And suddenly, everything clicks into place.

My heart swells, threatening to burst right out of my chest.

In two quick strides, I'm across the room.

I scoop Aggie up into my arms, her feet leaving the ground as I crush her to me.

Her surprised laugh is muffled against my chest, and I can feel her smile against my neck.

I capture her lips in a deep, passionate kiss, pouring every ounce of love and gratitude I'm feeling into it.

She responds eagerly, her fingers threading through my hair, holding me close.

When we finally break apart, both breathless, I rest my forehead against hers. "God, you have no idea how much I love you," I murmur, my voice thick with emotion.

Aggie's emerald eyes are glistening with unshed tears, and I can see the depth of her feelings reflected back at me. "I love you too. Merry Christmas, Jack."

I set her down gently, but keep her close, one arm wrapped around her waist.

My mind is reeling, trying to process everything.

How long has she been planning this?

"You sneaky little minx," I tease, unable to keep the grin off my face. "How'd you pull this off without me catching on?"

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Aggie

The twinkling lights on the Christmas tree cast a warm glow across the living room, reflecting off the shiny paper and ribbons strewn about.

I lean back against the couch, soaking in the comforting chaos of wrapping paper carnage and excited chatter.

Jolt's arm is around my shoulders as he sits on the floor beside me, his back against the couch.

Conrad's high-pitched voice cuts through the noise as he holds up a long box, his gap-toothed grin infectious. "Aggie, look! Santa brought me a telescope!"

I can't help but smile back at my little brother's enthusiasm. "That's brilliant, Con! You'll be spotting aliens in no time."

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