Abigail looked out over the beautiful vast field as she sat on the back porch. Kevin and Abigail had been in Lexington for a little over a week and had settled into a comfortable routine. Kevin was slowly beginning to regain his strength, which allowed them to take long walks together and take the necessary time to rediscover each other. In that week, Abigail found her self learning about the “little farm boy” and discovered that she loved all facets of Kevin. She had come to learn that Kevin was such a complex individual. She was amazed that he was able to correspond with others in the music industry with such ease, yet he seemed so unaffected by it all. Abigail silently thanked Kevin’ s parents for ensuring he was raised in an open and caring family.  She was positive, that if it weren’t for his normal upbringing, Kevin wouldn’t be the honest and caring man that she found herself falling in love with all over again.

Kevin leaned against the threshold surrounding the back door and simply watched Abigail as she looked out over the vast rolling hills. A mixture of fresh country air, his mother’s home cooking and Abigail’s tender loving care left Kevin feeling stronger with each passing day. He had come to realize over the past week since they had arrived in Lexington, that his relationship with Abigail would never be the same. It was unfortunate that Frank’s memory continued to haunt them, but he was pleased with the way a new relationship was forming between them. While they both took the time and space they needed to heal physically and emotionally, he found a more relaxed relationship forming, because there was no more sense of urgency or fear hanging over their heads. They had both silently discovered on their own, that it was all right to take things slowly and let things happen naturally. It was impossible for them to pick up where they left off and expect the relationship to work. Kevin finally moved out onto the porch and stood beside Abigail as she remained in the same position. “A penny for your thoughts.” Kevin said.

“I’m just thinking about how peaceful this place is and it’s a wonder you ever wanted to leave.” Abigail said as she stood up and moved closer to Kevin. She simply rested her head on his shoulder, which was a silent signal that let Kevin know she wanted to be held.

Kevin took Abigail in his arms and placed a light kiss on her forehead. He could stay like this for the rest of his life and he would be content. “It’s going to be even more difficult to leave now that I have shared it with someone special.” Kevin said.

“I’m surprised you don’t own your own place here.” Abigail said.

“No need too. I’m always welcome at home and I get all the privacy I need staying here in the guesthouse. Plus I’m a mama’s boy and I don’t mind one bit that she cooks, cleans and spoils me.” Kevin kidded, fully expecting to get a reaction out of Abigail.

“I’m glad she’s willing to do it for you, because you’d be hard pressed to find a woman now a days that would do it.” Abigail said, giving Kevin the reaction he expected.

Kevin would have normally joked about her staying home and being a dutiful housewife, but her past never strayed far from his mind and he knew it would be an inappropriate and upsetting remark. “I hope you know I don’t expect that at all.” Kevin said seriously.

“I know.” Abigail replied as she smiled up at Kevin. He understood how difficult the past couple of years had been on her, and he was providing her with the time and space she needed to determine where she wanted to go next. She was grateful to Kevin for giving her the opportunity to slowly pick up the pieces of her shattered life and discover who she really was. Abigail had realized that it was impossible for her not to be a changed woman and it would take some time to figure out what parts of Alison she wanted to take with her. She was sure of one thing though. She was now Abigail Phillips and Alison Summers was slowly becoming a distant memory, like a friend she knew in the past. She would always look back on Alison with fond memories, but she belonged in the past.

“Ready to go for our walk?” Kevin asked as he continued to hold Abigail close. When she nodded they slowly descended the steps and walked in silence, lost in their own thoughts.

Ann watched from her bedroom window as the couple disappeared behind a line of trees. In the short time she had known Abigail, she had grown to love her as the daughter she never had. She said a silent prayer for the couple, hoping they would be able to meet each other on the other side. But as she said the prayer, in her heart she knew their love was strong enough to weather the storm. They were both strong individuals and she believed god was on their side.

THE END

Coming Soon: The Secrets Trilogy: Part 2 - Lying To Protect