Epilogue

October 8, 7:40 a.m.

Over the past two weeks, Elizabeth and Blake took time to recover from their misadventure. They had several visits with Dr. Sherman, sometimes together or with members of their family, sometimes alone. Dr. Sherman and Henry were proud of how they were handling it. Despite being workaholics, they seemed to understand that time off was what they needed most. On the promise that they would call if something happened and continue to attend sessions, Blake and Elizabeth were both cleared to return to the state department.

"It's good to have you back, Madam Secretary," a DS agent who was driving said. "I was worried I might get reassigned." They both cracked a smile. More seriously, he added, "I'm glad you're alright, Madam Secretary."

When they arrived at the State Department, there was a small crowd of reporters that snapped photos as she walked in. Blake arrived around the same time, and they rode the elevator up together.

"Hey, Blake. How are you holding up?"

"I'm doing well. I'm glad to be back," he replied honestly and handed her a hot cup of coffee.

She smiled. "Me too. Let me know if you need anything, okay?"

"I will."

The doors dinged as they arrived at the seventh floor.

"Good morning!" her staff chorused, wide grins on their faces. The whole floor exploded into applause. After a short reunion, Elizabeth clapped her hands to get everyone's attention.

"Back to work, everyone! We have lots to do!"

December 8, 4:15 p.m.

Though the day had been relatively short, Elizabeth was completely exhausted when she got home.

"Hey, babe!" Henry greeted her with a kiss. "How was your first day back?"

"Okay. I really enjoyed it, actually." She snuggled into him, his arms wrapping around her instinctively.

"That's good to hear."

After a beat, she asked, "When will the kids be home?"

"Not for another hour, at least. Why? Got any plans?"

"You haven't had the chance to welcome me home properly yet," she suggested, biting her lower lip.

"Well then," he grinned, "I guess I'd better do something about that." He tugged her towards the stairs as she giggled behind him with joy. Elizabeth was finally right where she was meant to be: Home.

A/N: It's been a wild ride, but it's finished! I hope this is a satisfying conclusion for everyone. Thank you all so much for sticking with me, and I hope you enjoyed! Feel free to leave a review about what you thought of this final chapter, or of the story as a whole. Thanks again! Y'all are the best.

Also, Shout out to Awkward Little Turtle, whose review motivated me to actually finish the epilogue.