At Long Last

NOTE: Jeff's POV

The day before I was to return to California, Emma helped me pack my bags and we talked for a little while. What she said next shocked me. "Will you please forgive me Jeff for how cruel I have been to you? I shouldn't have mistreated you considering the fact that you felt remorseful for what you did years back. How could I have been so blind to the unconditional love you've always had for me? I am really sorry.", she pleaded. I smiled and hugged her. "It's okay. It was not your fault so I forgive you... but do you forgive me?", I asked. "No", came her reply. I was shocked. "I understand.", I said sadly.

She began laughing and said "You didn't let me finish. I wanted to say 'No way I'm staying angry with you.'" I laughed and pulled her cheek! What a trickster. "You were scared, weren't you?", she asked. I knew deep down I was scared that she wouldn't forgive me but I lied "No way. Jeff Boston can never be scared of anyone or anything." "Really", she teased. "Then I'm still mad at you. I don't forgive you.", she said. "Fine. I was scared. I've told the truth now. Just please don't get angry with me ever again", I begged. She giggled and I smiled.

She took my hand and said "Thank you for everything. I won't forget all the good you've done." I patted her head and she bade me goodnight. The next day, I woke up early to get ready. I decided not to use my private jet this time around. I gifted Mr and Mrs Daisy the car I had brought and they were really delighted. I'm pretty sure you're wondering why but I ought to thank them for taking care of Emma those past few years. Once, I had packed all my suitcases, Emma asked her driver to take me to the airport and also promised to escort me. While in the car, she held my hand and said "I hope to see you soon. Who knows! I might even come to California and start living with you." I smiled and replied "You can come anytime. I won't stop you. In fact, I'll be awaiting your arrival."

Soon we got to the airport and as I stepped into the plane, I turned back to see Emma who had tears in her eyes. I waved at her and she forced a smile. The flight to California was smooth and the weather conditions were stable. Once I arrived in California, I drove straight home to find Tricia who had already packed her bags and was waiting for me. Her head and left hand was bandaged. There were bruises all over her faces. I felt bad when I saw her! I hadn't meant to beat her up, I was just angry that she had mistreated Emma. When she saw me, she gave a weak smile and said "I know you hate me because of what I did to Emma. I totally deserve all that has happened to me. I have always loved you Jeff but I think it's time to make sacrifices. I will leave now and will never show my face to you ever again. I am really sorry for everything. Please forgive me! I wish you the very best in life. Goodbye."

I stared blankly as she picked her bags and left. Maybe I should have said something to her. I sighed and went back to my room. The next few days were tough as I had to record a lot of albums to impress Mr Josh. I spoke to Emma often and she was heartbroken to hear that Tricia had left. All was going good until I had an unexpected visitor...