Protecting Alabama (2014)

## Series

SEAL of Protection, Book 2

Originally published on October 17, 2014

## Official Blurb

> **The heat was staggering and she began to feel light headed. But she wasn’t leaving without him.**
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>

> Alabama didn’t have a good start to life. Emotionally and physically abused by her mama, Alabama spent her high school years in foster care. People let her down, time after time, and she’d learned to rely on only herself.
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> Christopher “Abe” Powers earned his nickname because he tolerated nothing less than absolute honesty from the people around him. Finding the bar scene stale and having watched his friend and teammate, Wolf, find the woman of his dreams, Abe was determined to find someone to share his life with too.
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> Alabama and Abe had no idea their paths would cross and their prayers would be answered, but like most things in life, nothing is ever as easy as it seems at first. Two words would change both their lives and they’d have to fight hard for their happy ever after.
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>

## Characters

### Main Character(s)

* Christopher "Abe" Powers
* Alabama Smith

### All Characters (in order of appearance)

* (Alabama's mother)
* Alabama Smith
* Betty (person in hospital)
* Christopher "Abe" Powers
* Adelaide
* Matthew "Wolf" Steel
* Caroline "Ice" Martin
* Sam "Mozart" Reed
* (Alabama's neighbor)
* Hunter "Cookie" Knox
* Kason "Benny" Sawyer
* Faulkner "Dude" Cooper
* Jessyka Allen
* Molly (Mozart's girlfriend)
* Brittany (Dude's date)
* Emily (Benny's date)
* Michele (Cookie's date)
* Susie Powers
* Alicia Powers
* Bev Powers
* Joni (Adelaide's friend)
* Bob (Alabama's landlord)
* (Alabama's lawyer)
* Julie Lytle
* Fiona Storme

### Characters Mentioned (but not appearing)

* Greg Wolfe (Alabama's boss)
* Stacey Wolfe (Alabama's boss)
* John "Tex" Keegan
* (Abe's father)
* Patrick Hurt

## Synopsis

### Chapter 1

At age 2, Alabama Ford Smith cries to be let out of a closet. Her mother refuses to let her out until she can "shut up." At age 6, Alabama's mother again yells at her to be quiet. Alabama tries to protest, but her mother begins beating and berating her, commanding her not to speak unless spoken to.
At age 11, Alabama sits at school with her principal and a police officer. That morning, her mother hit her arm with a skillet. A teacher noticed the bruise and took her to the principal's office. Alabama takes a chance and tells the police officer about the abuse she suffers.

At age 12, Alabama lies in a hospital bed and overhears two people talking about her. Alabama thinks back to the day a year earlier when she told the police officer about her abuse. Police and Child Protective Services interviewed her mother, who claimed Alabama hit herself. Her mother continued to abuse Alabama, culminating in the events of that night. Her mother returned home after a night drinking. She yelled at Alabama, blaming her for her mother's lot in life. She remembers her mother going to get the skillet, but her next memory is in the ambulance with the EMTs. Alabama's mother had broken her jaw, nose, and cheekbone, and cracked her eye socket. Alabama's jaw had to be wired shut.

On her 16th birthday, Alabama walks through the halls in school, making a note to keep to herself. Her foster mother tried to relate to Alabama, but the girl has learned to keep to herself. Alabama works at a local library as a shelver and saves her money.

### Chapter 2

Christopher "Abe" Powers is at his girlfriend's work function. They have been dating for three months, but Abe is no longer interested in her beyond the bedroom. He thinks about Wolf and Caroline's relationship, and how he would like a love like theirs. Abe reminisces about the night he and Adelaide first hooked up. He considers Adelaide's behavior, finding her to be "a total bitch." To get away from her and her coworkers' gossip, he goes to the buffet line to get something to eat. There he accidentally steps on Alabama's foot. As Abe apologizes, he's struck with Alabama's beauty and quiet nature. He tries to start a conversation with her as they go through the line, but inadvertently insults her food offering. Pulling her to the side, Abe again apologizes and introduces himself as Christopher. When he tries to continue the conversation, Alabama gets nervous and leaves.

### Chapter 3

Alabama sits in a corner of the room, mentally shaking her head at how she ran away from Abe. She thinks back to the last time she tried to befriend a coworker, and reflects on a previous run-in she had with Adelaide. Alabama secretly observes Abe's interactions with Adelaide, upset that the other woman doesn't seem to appreciate what Abe does for her.

Alabama watches as Abe quickly drops his plate. Looking around, she notices a fire spreading from the buffet table. Alabama drops to the ground and observes the exits. People are beginning to crowd around the front door, but Alabama knows there is a side door that will lead them outside. She starts to head that way before remembering Abe, who likely wasn't aware of the second exit. She starts crawling toward him, to help him escape. Along the way, she points others toward the hallway and the side exit.

After several minutes, Alabama finally reaches Abe. He has put his jacket around Adelaide to protect her from falling embers, and his shirt around her face to help her breathe. Alabama reaches out to tell him of the other exit when he asks how she is. Surprised that he thought about her, she brushes off his concern and starts to lead him toward the exit. Adelaide refuses to leave, wanting to stay close to the crowded front door. As Abe tries to convince her to leave, Alabama looks around for something else for Abe to wear, so he doesn't get burned. She finds someone else's jacket and a pitcher of water, returning to him and dumping the water over his head. Abe takes the jacket gratefully, commands Adelaide to move, and starts to crawl next to Alabama toward the side exit.

> *She didn't even think about herself. Alabama only wanted to protect Christopher.*
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Along the way, Alabama finds a cloth napkin, which she gives to Abe to cover his face. They come across others who are confused in the loud, dark, smoky room, and add them to their caravan. At the door, Alabama tries to push it open but can't. Abe pushes with her and the door bursts open. Alabama stays by the door to help people leave, including Abe leading Adelaide away. She stands in the parking lot as fire trucks, ambulances, and news trucks arrive. When an EMT approaches her she refuses treatment, instead pointing him toward Abe, who she knows has burns on his back. Seeing the EMT head toward Abe, Alabama turns around and quietly leaves.

Abe notices an EMT approaching him, hoping to pass off a hysterical Adelaide and look for Alabama. The EMT asks Abe if he's been burned, requesting that he take off the borrowed jacket. The EMT starts to evaluate Abe's burns, but Abe instead asks him who told him about his injuries. The EMT points in the direction where Alabama was, but she isn't there anymore. Abe thanks him, knowing it was Alabama. Adelaide becomes jealous and tries to badmouth Alabama. Abe chastises her, reminding Adelaide that Alabama just saved their lives. Disgusted with her behavior, Abe immediately dumps Adelaide, who threatens him. He walks away, mentally preparing to have Tex look up Alabama's contact information.

### Chapter 4

The next night, Alabama sits on her couch, watching the news report of the fire. She has a cough from smoke inhalation, but otherwise is fine. Alabama discovers the fire was started by a faulty cord on the paper tablecloth. No one had died from their injuries, but a dozen people were still in the hospital. Alabama saw a couple she helped on the news, glad that they were able to get out, but still slightly hurt that no one had bothered to find her and thank her for her assistance.

As Alabama sits thinking about her cozy apartment, and how she'd love a house of her own, she hears a knock on the door. She answers it and finds Abe standing there, asking if she was okay. Confused and shocked, Alabama asks how he found her. He blushes and admits that he asked his friend for help finding her address. While Alabama stands there, still shocked at seeing him, he invites her to have coffee with him the next day so he can properly thank her for saving his life. She agrees and then formally introduces himself. He kisses the back of her hand before leaving.

Later, Abe has trouble sleeping, thinking about Alabama. He isn't used to being the aggressor in the relationship, but finds himself drawn to Alabama. Abe reflects on his family, who he loves dearly. He wonders if Alabama would get along with them. Abe thinks about Alabama's actions the day before, and realizes that no one has ever taken care of him before. He starts to plan how to get Alabama to join him for a second date.

### Chapter 5

Alabama also had a restless night. She couldn't help but wonder why Abe asked her out. She thinks back to some disastrous attempts at dating and comes to the conclusion that Abe only asked her out to make Adelaide jealous. Alabama gets up and dressed, but plans to pretend she isn't home when Abe comes.

Abe arrives five minutes early for their date. From the hallway, he encourages her to open the door, threatening to break it down just to make sure she's okay. Alabama doesn't want to replace the door, so she opens it. Abe enters her apartment and looks around. There is mostly secondhand furniture, but it looks cozy. He compliments her on what she's done with the place.

As they leave, Abe asks Alabama for her keys so he can lock the door. Confused, she hands them over. After he locks the door he puts them in his pocket, which causes Alabama to stress. She demands them back, and he easily acquiesces and apologizes. They get to his car and he opens the door for Alabama and hands her the seatbelt before getting in on his side. They drive to Coffee and More, a cute local coffee shop Alabama enjoys. He again opens the door for her and leads her to the cafe.

Abe asks Alabama what she would like, then asks her to pick out a table for them to share. He returns with her vanilla latte, a drink for himself, and two muffins. Seeing her choice, he awkwardly asks her to switch seats, because as a SEAL, he can't have his back to the room. She goes to move, but he stops her and suggests that the sit on the same side of the table. He gets them situated and asks, *"'So, tell me everything about yourself. I want to know it all.'"*

### Chapter 6

Alabama is hesitant to start speaking, so Abe starts talking about himself. He tells her about his family, his job, and how impressed he is with her actions during the fire. Alabama is embarrassed but accepts his thanks. She looks around nervously before giving bare details about herself. Abe encourages her to speak more, letting her know that he wants to learn everything about her. Stunned, Alabama asks Abe if he's there on a bet. Abe reassures her that he is interested in her, and asks her on a "real" date. He asks if he can call her later, and requests her cell phone number. Embarrassed, Alabama admits she doesn't have one, but Abe recovers quickly and asks for her landline number. Soon after, they finish their breakfast before Abe takes Alabama home.

### Chapter 7

Alabama has been biding time before Abe's call. She is much more comfortable speaking on the phone when she is alone and in her safe space. When she picks up his call, Abe is "thrilled" that Alabama is speaking as much as she is. After he explains his nickname, Alabama freezes, worried about having to open up about her past. Abe reassures her, saying that he knows she has PTSD and is willing to wait for her to become comfortable with him. They continue their conversation and get to know each other's favorite things before saying good night.

### Chapter 8

Alabama gets off the phone with her boss, who has graciously offered her pay for the week during their renovations. Alabama prepares for her first "real" date with Abe. In turn, he is nervous. He has planned an "interesting day for them" as a bit of a test to see if Alabama is the right woman for him. He arrives at Alabama's apartment and escorts her to his car, winking at her elderly neighbor on their way out the door.

Abe gets Alabama settled in his car before turning around and giving her a gift. Alabama stares at it, trying to remember the last time (if ever) she has received a present. Abe encourages her to open it, and she finds a prepaid flip phone inside. Abe tells her he wants her to be safe and be able to contact him if she needs to. Alabama tears up, admitting that she had never received a present before. He comforts her and kisses the corner of her mouth before pulling out of his parking space.

Alabama reflects on their date. Abe took her to have a morning picnic on a fairly secluded beach. They then went to the San Diego Zoo and walked around. At one point, a man dropped his drink near Alabama, and she had to restrain Abe from going after the man. Later, they go near his base to watch planes take off and land. They grab Chinese takeout before returning to Alabama's apartment, where they eat before settling in to watch *The Princess Bride*.

As they relax, Abe asks Alabama about her past, and why she's so hesitant to speak in public. Alabama tenses, but Abe reassures her that she's safe, and that he wants her to share. After a few moments, Alabama begins to tell Abe about her mother's abuse. As she recounts the last time she saw her mother, she notices that Abe is tense. She attempts to soothe him before continuing on, briefly recapping her years in foster care.

During their talk, Alabama tells Abe that she can't hear the words "shut up" without thinking of her mother screaming at her. Alabama recalls that Abe suggested she had PTSD. She agrees and considers seeing a counselor to talk through her issues. Abe supports her, and promises that he will never tell her to "shut up," now that he knows it's a trigger for her. After more kind words, Alabama breaks down and cries while Abe comforts her.

After Alabama's tears stop, Abe opens up and tells her about his strained relationship with his father. He explains that his father was in and out of his life when he was a child, and how much that devastated his mother. He stepped up and acted as the man of the family, trying to support his mother and sisters while still a child himself. They continue to offer each other silent comfort as Alabama drifts off.

### Chapter 9

Alabama cleans the temporary offices of Wolfe Realty. As she moves through the quiet of the building, she reflects on the past week with Abe. They have met up each night. She visited his quarters on base one night, but they both could tell being on base made her nervous. Luckily they both enjoy being at her apartment. On their third date, Abe asked if he could kiss Alabama, and they had a passionate makeout session.

Alabama shakes her head, bringing herself back to the present. She starts to continue her work when she hears someone else in the building. Alabama pulls out her flip phone from Abe and prepares to call 9-1-1, until she sees Adelaide walking down the hall. Her coworker is annoyed to see Alabama there, and promises her that she'll get Abe back. Alabama pulls her courage together and informs Adelaide that Abe is interested in Alabama, and for Adelaide to "back off." The other woman approaches Alabama and promises revenge, before banning her from her office, claiming that she doesn't trust Alabama to clean it. Alabama moves down the hall, hearing Adelaide storm out of the offices.

### Chapter 10

Alabama prepares to go on a date with Abe to meet his friends. She reflects back to the last two weeks, and how happy she has been with Abe. They have advanced to more intense makeout sessions, with Abe even bringing her to orgasm, which she had never before experienced. When they arrive at Aces Bar and Grill, Abe pulls Alabama aside and reassures her before leading her to their table. Jess, their server, takes their order before they sit. Caroline jumps in and introduces everyone: the team and their dates. Alabama sits back and enjoys the team dynamics as the group chats. Emily, Benny's girlfriend, asks Abe how he and Alabama met. When he tells them, Michele, Cookie's girlfriend and Adelaide's friend, starts questioning him about Adelaide. Cookie gets upset, apologizes to Alabama, and leads Michele out of the bar. Abe worries that Alabama is upset, but she surprises him by joking about Michele's questioning.

Emily asks Abe about his nickname, but before he can answer, Dude tells a story about how a fellow SEAL candidate tried swapping Abe's equipment with his own. Abe, upset at the deception, "[taught] him a lesson," leading the other man to quit the program. Abe expounds on his frustration with dishonestly, and Benny attempts to illustrate this with an anecdote about someone Abe used to date. Caroline smacks Benny's arm at the social faux pas of speaking about one of Abe's exes in front of his current girlfriend, but Alabama just laughs and reassures Abe that she doesn't "lie or steal."

Later, Alabama gets up to use the restroom and Caroline joins her. While washing their hands, Caroline describes how she has a soft spot for Abe, and asks Alabama not to hurt him. Alabama responds that she won't, and that she is dedicated to being in a relationship with him. They share a friendly embrace before Alabama blurts out that she and Abe have yet to be intimate. Caroline laughs and confirms that Abe must really like her. Returning to the table, Abe asks Alabama if she's okay before suggesting that they leave so they can be alone together. Alabama quickly agrees and shares a conspiratorial look with Caroline.

As Abe drives Alabama back to her apartment, he barely says a word, leaving Alabama to lead the conversation. They get out of the car and walk up the stairs. As soon as Abe settles them inside, he leans forward and kisses Alabama. They make their way to her bed, and Abe asks Alabama to take off her clothes. He does the same, and they have sex. As they cuddle afterward, Abe tells Alabama he loves her. She tears up, admitting that she'd "never been loved before." They relax and start to fall asleep, and Alabama returns the favor, telling Abe she loves him.

### Chapter 11

Three weeks later, Alabama smiles as she thinks about her relationship with Abe. She has spent more time with Abe's friends, and has developed a tight relationship with Caroline. Thinking about her new friend, Alabama expresses shame about her own profession, which she had kept a secret from Abe. When she finally told him that she is a janitor, he simply laughed and showed his support. Caroline felt the same. Alabama has not had another run-in with Adelaide, for which she is grateful. She takes pride in her work, and doesn't want Adelaide to add unpleasantness to her nights.

Alabama thinks about how much closer she has been with Abe. He has bought her flowers and small gifts. She's returned the favor by using a guest pass and restocking his refrigerator, detailing his car, and polishing his boots. Abe even gave Alabama a key to his apartment. She returned the favor, not realizing that Abe, who had recently changed her locks, already had one.

As Abe reminisces on the same few weeks, he thinks about how much he loves Alabama. He waits in her apartment with a home-cooked meal, and they embrace and enjoy dinner. Abe leads her to the couch and tells her he'd like for her to meet his family. Alabama is initially nervous, worried that they won't like her, but Abe quickly reassures her that they will. She agrees, and they retire to her bed.

### Chapter 12

Abe walks Alabama to his mother's front door. He enters and announces their arrival, prompting his sisters and their mother to run toward them and give him hugs. Abe introduces his family to Alabama, and they all express how happy they are to meet her.

After dinner, Alabama laughs at Abe's childhood photos. She has had a lovely time with his family, enjoying how open and "hysterical" his sisters are, and how sweet his mother is. Abe announces that they should leave, and everyone says heartfelt goodbyes. Abe's mom even admits that she hopes Abe will propose to Alabama soon, which embarrasses him. In the car, Abe thanks Alabama for joining him and meeting his family. They share a soft kiss before he drives them "home."

### Chapter 13

After work, Alabama enters Abe's apartment, smelling a delicious spaghetti dinner. They embrace and catch up before eating and cleaning up. Abe tosses Alabama over his shoulder and takes her to his bedroom, where they have sex. Afterward, Abe reveals that he has to leave the next day on a mission. Alabama tears up, worried about his safety, and Abe promises he'll be safe and will come back to her. Alabama considers asking Caroline to hang out while they're gone, which Abe encourages. They relax in silence before Abe rolls her over for round two.

### Chapter 14

Alabama waits for her frozen dinner to heat. She and Caroline have spent time together in the past ten days that the team has been away. During one of those times, Caroline discussed her abduction with Alabama, who was shocked. However, hearing about how the team saved Caroline has made Alabama more sure of their competency.

Alabama reflects on work that night. Joni, another realtor and friend of Adelaide's, had approached Alabama and made friendly conversation. She casually asked how long it took Alabama to finish cleaning, before leaving the building with Adelaide.

Alabama is just getting to sleep when she hears her door opening. She jumps out of bed and rushes to embrace Abe, who has just entered. Abe has just returned, not even taking time to take a shower before seeing Alabama. They have a brief conversation before Abe enters the bathroom to shower and shave.

As Abe approaches Alabama in bed, she notices a new injury on his shoulder. She frets over his wound, which he tries to play off. He admits that he was slashed in a confrontation, and Alabama kisses his boo-boo. They make love for several hours before finally falling asleep as the sun rises.

### Chapter 15

Alabama sits in a police interrogation room, shivering. After a relaxed morning with Abe, she arrived at work only to be arrested for theft. Terrified, Alabama begged to call Abe and have him come to the station. When an officer joins her in the interrogation room, she asks if Abe is on his way. The officer replies that Abe is answering some questions, which leads Alabama to yell and defend Abe's honor as a "hero." The officer tells Alabama to calm down, and she considers how Abe will fix everything and take her home soon.

When Abe enters the room, Alabama is initially relieved, but quickly realizes his tense anger. Abe asks the officer to give them some privacy. When they're alone, Alabama moves to greet Abe, only to have him step away from her. He begins asking her why she stole belongings from her workplace. Alabama is shocked that Abe believes the allegations, standing in silence as he reams into her for throwing their relationship away. Alabama attempts to explain, but Abe quickly tells her to "shut up."

With those two words, Alabama's heart breaks. Abe had promised to never say them to her. He continues to berate her for stealing the belongings and ruining their relationship, but Alabama only responds, "You promised." She returns to her seat at the table, tuning out Abe's additional criticisms as she focuses on breathing and staying calm. Soon he departs the building, leaving her to her fate.

Abe slams the door to the police station as he walks to his car. He remains angry with Alabama for stealing agents' belongings from her workplace, including money and jewelry. He had seen the evidence of her theft: a secret pocket sewn into her cleaning cart, where she kept the stolen belongings. Hurt at her deception, and still exhausted from his recent return, he leaves and heads for his quarters on base.

Back at the police station, Alabama has remained silent through her attempted interrogations. The officers, frustrated that she refuses to speak, book her and lead her to a cell. Alabama lies in the dark, silently crying, while trying to maintain her composure.

### Chapter 16

A few days later, Abe regrets his actions. He realizes that he should have given Alabama the chance to explain the situation, instead of angrily assuming the worst and telling her to "shut up." Cookie called Abe, asking why he has been in a snit. Abe recalled the situation, and laments his behavior. He tried to explain his state of mind in the moment, claiming that he was influenced by his father's "excuses." Cookie replied that he can't take back the words he said to Alabama, and hangs up on Abe.

Abe continues to beat himself up. He tried calling each of his teammates, who ignored him. He also called the police department to check on Alabama, only to be told that she had posted bail. Abe automatically feels regret, realizing that she had been arrested and spent three nights and two days behind bars. On a mission to fix his error, Abe rushes to Alabama's apartment, only to find it cleaned out. Her elderly neighbor appears in the doorway, angrily telling him that their landlord evicted her due to her arrest. Abe begs the woman to tell him where she went, but she refused to cooperate, angry with Abe about the situation.

Later, Abe addresses Cookie at Wolf and Caroline's house. He begs them for assistance, which they meet with steely anger. After Abe revealed the situation to Cookie, he immediately went to the police station and posted Alabama's bail. She was "broken" from the experience, refusing to say more than a few words. Caroline, who had been there, had attempted to bring her home, but Alabama insisted on going to her apartment. The next day, the group went to Alabama's apartment to check on her, only to find out that she was evicted. They packed up her belongings to hold for her.

Wolf explains how he contacted a friend with the police department, who admitted that Alabama's supposed theft was suspicious, and how they were currently reviewing security tapes to find evidence. Wolf surmises that Adelaide and her friend planted the evidence to get back at Alabama. Abe yells in frustration, punching the wall and dropping to the floor. Caroline approaches him, trying to reassure him that they'll find her. Abe tears up, admitting that he's "lost her," and revealing his regrets over the situation.

### Chapter 17

Alabama sits on a cot in a homeless shelter. She had withdrawn all her savings from the bank. Some of it she used to pay back Cookie for her bond, which he begrudgingly accepted. More than a week has passed since then, and she considers her options. She only has one suitcase of her belongings, most of which she had to leave behind. She looks at her remaining money ($1,223) before she puts it in an envelope and begins writing a letter to Abe. Alabama reflects on how awful her jail experience was, and how relieved she had been to see Cookie. She still couldn't believe that Abe hadn't defended or protected her. Grabbing her suitcase, she heads for a separate room to meet for the lawyer Cookie arranged for her.

On base, Abe sits in Wolf's office. Their commanding officer asked to speak with them, and gave them an envelope from Alabama's lawyer. Abe opens it to find it stuffed with cash. He pulls out a letter from Alabama. She has given him the rest of her money, explaining that it is to reimburse everything he gave her, including his time and care. She bitterly recounts that had she known it was "payment for services rendered," she would not have been with him. She has given him this money, because she wouldn't want him to think she was stealing from him.

Abe is heartbroken and upset at Alabama's "petty" letter, but acknowledges her hurt and attempts to protect herself. He gathers the money, returns it to the envelope, and begs Wolf to help him find her.

### Chapter 18

After two days, Abe and his team, including Tex, have yet to find Alabama. They have been canvassing the city, particularly areas with high unhomed populations. A few people admit interacting with her, remembering her kindness in different situations. Frustrated, Wolf convinces Abe to call her lawyer and have her arrange a meeting with Alabama to sign paperwork. The police have concluded their investigation against her, uncovering evidence that Adelaide and Joni planted the stolen belongings. They have both since been arrested for "making false statements." Abe agrees to this plan. Benny suggests they meet with Alabama before Abe does, so she won't run away.

Two days later, Alabama sits in a shelter with her lawyer. She has had a rough time experiencing homelessness, dodging those who wish her harm. Her lawyer, who had recognized Alabama's innocence in their first meeting, now informs Alabama that he cops have uncovered evidence of Adelaide and Joni's guilt, and that the district attorney has dropped all charges toward her. Unimpressed, Alabama waits for the lawyer to conclude their meeting, but the other woman admits that some of Alabama's "friends" are there to meet with her. Alabama realizes she's been tricked as Wolf and Dude enter the room. They ask her to sit down so they can speak with her. Alabama shoots daggers at her lawyer, angry with her for setting her up, but the other woman just leaves the room.

Wolf and Dude flank Alabama, attempting to comfort her. Wolf asks how she is, which she ignores, before launching into an explanation of Abe's actions. He admits that Abe "fucked up," which surprises Alabama, who had expected him to wholeheartedly support his teammate. Wolf continues to discuss Abe's mistake and how sorry he is that Alabama has been experiencing homelessness. He then explains more about Abe's childhood, revealing that Abe's father had a second family he didn't know about. His mother knew the secret, which she kept from Abe and his sisters. Abe's father had been murdered by the family member of yet another woman. Abe has since forgiven his mother for her deception, but has clearly allowed his father's betrayal to influence his worldview.

Wolf further explains that Abe had been exhausted after a taxing 10-day mission, expounded by his lack of sleep. During their AAR before he was called to the police station, the team went into detail about how Abe, distracted from missing Alabama, made several mistakes. "He was feeling raw," Wolf explains. That being said, Wolf reiterates that the team is "pissed" with Abe for mistreating Alabama. He then asks if she could ever forgive Abe.

As Alabama considers this, Dude gets up and leaves the room. Alabama notices her lawyer is gone, too, and admits to Wolf that she isn't sure she can forgive Abe. Wolf asks her to try, as he can tell they're in love with one another, before leaving her alone. Alabama considers this before turning to the door, where she sees Abe standing and watching her. He appears as devastated as she is, as he slides to the floor and continues to watch her. Feeling vulnerable, Alabama moves to the other side of the table to put distance between them.

Abe recognizes Alabama's protective actions, admitting to her that he understand them, but that they still upset him. He vows to make it up to her, even "if it takes me the rest of my life." Abe then reveals that he's "ruined" Adelaide, about which Alabama doesn't readily approve. She gently chastises him by only saying his name, and they both tear up as they realize she hasn't said a word in a few weeks. Abe again promises to make things right, and that even if she doesn't want to be with him anymore, he wants to protect Alabama and make sure she's safe and happy. He finally apologizes for using her trigger words. Abe explains that Caroline is there, waiting to take Alabama home with her and set her up in the extra room in their basement. He's also spoken with a counselor on base, who has offered to see her. Abe ends by admitting that he hates himself for what he's done, and that he hopes Alabama can some day forgive him. He exits the room, letting in Caroline, who rushes to comfort her crying friend.

In the hallway, Wolf asks Abe how it went. Abe admits he's said his piece, and that the "ball's in her court." Wolf assures him that Alabama will forgive him, but Abe isn't convinced.

### Chapter 19

Alabama wakes at Wolf and Caroline's house, after 18 hours of sleep. She showers and puts on some of Caroline's clothing before leaving the basement and sitting at the kitchen table. She can smell food cooking but can't see Wolf or Caroline, so she waits for someone to appear. Caroline is the first to enter the kitchen, greeting her friend and explaining that Wolf is grilling steaks. After a moment, Caroline embraces Alabama and makes her promise that if she needs help in the future, she'll call Caroline. They get to work making sides for dinner.

After dinner, Caroline and Alabama sit in the basement for a "sleepover." Caroline asks Alabama what happened, and Alabama takes the opportunity to talk about her troubles with her friend. She explains to Caroline about her upbringing, and how Abe betrayed her trust. Caroline sympathizes with Alabama, but also causes her to realize that she still loves Abe. Caroline reveals that Tex "stole" Adelaide's identity, leaving her broke. Alabama is stunned that Abe would ask him to do that, but Caroline reiterates that Abe would do anything for Alabama. They share a sweet moment before going to sleep.

### Chapter 20

Alabama wakes the next morning to find Wolf sitting at the kitchen table. Alabama tentatively asks Wolf why they're letting her stay at their house, and he replies that even if they're not currently together, Alabama is Abe's family, and their team protects their own. He also informs her that the rest of the team will be keeping watch over her for the time being. Over the next week, Alabama relaxes at Wolf and Caroline's house, accompanied by one of Abe's teammates. She has had time to think about the situation with Abe, and leaves the basement to seek out her friends. She walks into the kitchen to see Wolf and Caroline enthusiastically making out, and she laughs as she interrupts them. She lets them know she's ready to see Abe. Wolf immediately texts his friend, who Alabama learns has been sitting in his car in the driveway every night. Seconds later, the doorbell rings, and Alabama moves forward to find a penitent Abe on the doorstep. He asks her to accompany him for the day, and she agrees, but first retreats into the house to get her purse. Alabama reenters the kitchen, informing Wolf and Caroline that she'll be spending the day with Abe. She hesitantly asks if they'll come get her if she needs them to. Wolf hugs her and reassures her that they'll be there for her, no matter what. She grabs her bag and leaves as Wolf quickly sends Abe a text about what she just asked.

Abe assists Alabama into his car and drives her to an outdoor café. He extends an olive branch by offering her the seat against the wall, but she knows it would make him feel uncomfortable, so she refuses. After they order, they sit in silence for a moment before Abe begins to apologize to Alabama. She returns with her version of events, and details how scared she was while in jail and on the streets. They share an emotionally charged moment when Alabama admits that she still loves Abe. He vows to never let her down again, and she accepts. They holds hands as they finish their meal and walk along the beach. Returning to Wolf and Caroline's house, Abe walks Alabama to the door and they share an embrace.

### Chapter 21

A few weeks later, Alabama reflects on how sweet Abe has been to her, and how he's worked to slowly regain her trust. She has not returned to Wolfe Realty, but Abe's commander gave her a reference to clean another office building. Abe arrives at Wolf and Caroline's house for a date with Alabama. Their friends have gone on a date, giving Abe and Alabama a chance to be alone. Alabama is cooking a simple spaghetti dinner, and they enjoy a quiet and relaxing meal before putting in a movie. They are both surprised when the doorbell rings.

Abe opens the door to find two police officers. Alabama worriedly asks if something happened to Wolf or Caroline, but the officers deny that, explaining instead that they are there to speak with Alabama about a recent theft noticed at her new place of work. Abe immediately denies their request, explaining that Alabama was found innocent of the earlier charge, and that she had nothing to do with another theft at her new building. The officers insist they need to speak with her downtown, but Abe cuts them off, instead suggesting they'll be at the precinct in the morning with Alabama's lawyer present. After he shuts the door, he turns to Alabama to hug her. She is overwhelmed with the undeniable support Abe has offered her, and lets him know how much she appreciates that. They share a passionate kiss.

Later that night, Alabama and Abe lie in bed. After the police left, he called Wolf, the rest of the team, and Alabama's lawyer. The team filled Wolf and Caroline's house, discussing a game plan for Alabama. She teared up when the team left, particularly after Cookie teasingly offered to steal her away from Abe. They both retreated to the basement, where they relax and share sweet words.

### Epilogue

Caroline and Alabama sit on the couch, pretending to pay attention to a movie. They are anxiously waiting for Wolf and Abe to return home from a mission in Mexico. Eventually they hear a vehicle, and burst out of the house to find their men. Each couple shares greetings before retreating to their respective bedrooms. Abe informs Alabama that they rescued two women, one of whom Cookie, Benny, and Dude stayed with in Texas to help her recuperate. Alabama declares her pride in him as the undresses him.

1. ↑ ***Protecting Alabama* (2014)**, chapter 3