Chapter 22 - THE SAFEHOUSE HORIZON
High in the rugged mountains of Montana, the winter snow melted away to reveal vibrant green pine forests and rushing streams.
Jack's secluded timber cabin stood bathed in warm afternoon sunlight, surrounded by absolute peace and quiet.
The daughter sat on the front porch rocking chair, reading a book with a cup of hot herbal tea in her hands.
The bruising and facial cut had completely faded, leaving only a radiant, healthy glow on her face.
Jack walked up the wooden steps carrying a basket of freshly chopped firewood, smiling as he looked at his daughter.
"Mail delivery just dropped off a letter from the federal district court," Jack announced gently, placing the envelope on the table.
She opened the envelope, scanning the official court stamp confirming that all criminal trials had concluded with guilty verdicts.
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"It's really over, isn't it?" she asked softly, looking out across the endless mountain horizon.
"It's just the beginning of your real life," Jack replied warmly, sitting down on the porch railing beside her.
