Back To You

30-Reunited

Hailey's P.O.V.

The closer we got to the cabin, the more nervous I got. I had a lot of explaining to do and I knew I wasn't going to be forgiven very easily, nor should I be.

Pulling up to the cabin I felt like throwing up. I don't know if I could do this. The only thing that got me through this past year was knowing Drake was waiting for me, but what if he wasn't. What if he had moved on and he had his new girl in there? Calvin and Sue said the last they knew he didn't but things could have changed. Or there was the possibility that he wouldn't forgive me.

I was already doubting what kind of person I was for even getting mixed up with a man like Carlos. Plus I like Aaron, an 'ex' mafia boss... I think he's a great guy but I know deep down, he's ruthless.

"Do you want us to stay in the car? Uncle Calvin asked.

"Could you give me just a little bit alone with them before you come in?"

"Of course. Good luck sweetheart."

It's now or never. I got out of the car and walked up to the door, taking another deep breath before knocking.

I heard faint talking and footsteps approaching the door. Moments later the door opened and Shane opened the door.

His smile faded as he stared back at me. "Holy shit. Hailey? DRAKE!" He yelled before he came up, wrapping his arms around my body and gave me a big hug.

I relaxed in his arms as I hugged him back. "Hi."

He let go, "Come on in. DRAKE!" He yelled again as he guided me inside. Everyone was in the kitchen looking at me like they just saw a ghost.

"Hailey?" Jess squealed. She came running over to me and gave me a big hug that I happily accepted. "Thank God you're alright."

Time stopped when I saw Drake stop as he stared back at me from the top of the stairs. I didn't even have time to respond to anyone else because I was so focused on Drake, that I couldn't speak.

Jess backed away. Actually I'm pretty sure Drew pulled her back as Drake started walking down the steps slowly towards me, our eyes never once leaving each other.

My breathing picked up the closer he got. All I wanted to do was run up to him and jump in his arms and tell him how sorry I was for taking so long. I wasn't sure if he had a girlfriend or if he hated me so I chose to stay patient no matter how hard it was.

Once he got to me, I could see the tears in his eyes and he was breathing heavily too. His hands came up, caressed the sides of my cheeks as they moved to the back of my neck and pulled me into a passionate kiss.

I started to cry slightly against his lips as I kissed him back. My hands went up his chest and around his back as I pulled him in deeper. Even though his touch was soft and gentle, I could feel how tense he was.

When he finally ended our kiss, he rested his forehead against mine and finally spoke. "Where in the hell have you been?"

"I'm sorry-" I choked out.

He slowly moved away, "You're sorry? Do you have any idea how worried we've been about you and how much I've missed you... and you're sorry?" Hurt laced in his tone and his eyes as he stood there, trying to understand.

"Yes. Drake, please. I can explain now."

He backed away further, "Where have you been?"

"Switzerland."

He started laughing as he looked towards his friends, probably thinking I was on vacation. "Why?" He asked, still not looking at me.

"Because... I was in witness protection." I finally admitted. I didn't realize how freeing that would be when those words finally left my mouth.