Chapter 26 - THE RETURN TO VERMONT
Two days later, Marcus’s private jet touched down on a private airstrip in the snowy, scenic mountains of Vermont.
The crisp winter air felt refreshing as he stepped out of the aircraft into the serene beauty of New England.
He drove a rented SUV through winding country roads blanketed in pristine white snow toward his sister’s secluded estate.
When he walked through the front door, the warm scent of cinnamon, pine, and baking cookies filled the cozy hallway.
Rory appeared at the top of the wooden staircase, wearing a pale yellow sweater and her signature yellow hair bow.
"Mr. Thorne! You came back!" she cheered happily, running down the stairs as fast as her small legs could carry her.
Marcus caught her in his arms, lifting her high into the air as genuine laughter echoed through the rustic wooden cabin.
"I promised I would return before you even missed me, sweetheart," Marcus whispered, burying his face in her hair.
"Did you carry my drawing in your pocket the whole time?" Rory asked eagerly, her big eyes shining with hope.
Marcus reached into his inner suit pocket, pulling out the folded paper and showing it to her with a wide, proud smile.
May you like
"Every single second, Rory. And it kept us both safe through the entire journey," Marcus answered with quiet sincerity.
***
