AN: Hi! =) Here I post this chapter on January 20th… Renee's birthday in my story and my birthday in real life = ) (By the way… reviews make a nice birthday gift).

This is the final chapter of this part of the series. Enjoy! I wanna thank Lau, Marsstone, Danny, GiGi, B3TA, Neal and Molly (I miss you, girl) because they sent me so many nice reviews through the series.

And, of course, special thanks to Brendan, who helps me a lot. = ) Thank you!

For the sake of the story and the upcoming 4th part of the series, Renee will recover in 24-time (Read: super-fast). I know it's not very realistic but I need her up and running for part four.

Since this chapter deals with Renee's birthday, I remind you that, in this story, Renee was born in 1980, which means she'll turn 39 on January 20, 2019. Her age on the show (36) didn't fit with the back story I had created for her before learning her age. (When I began writing this series season 8 of 24 was barely starting… wow, I can't believe it's been that long).

My love to everyone and I hope to see you in the next part!

Disclaimer: 24 is not mine. Neither are the characters. They belong to Howard Gordon and FOX (Damn it!). I'm just having fun with this. I'm not making any money.

EVERYTHING WENT DOWNHILL FROM THERE

PART 3: THE RIDE WITH YOU IS WORTH THE FALL

Previously: On January 6th, Renee was supposed to testify in the hearings that will determine if Yuri Suvarov and Mikail Novakovich will go to trial.

A Fat Russian stalked Renee for months. The group of people he works for wants him to kill Renee making it look like an accident. Unknown best to Jack and Renee, this man spied on them during their vacations. On December 31st, he kidnapped a young man called Dylan Whitmore and used Dylan's red Ferrari and hits Renee at full speed. When Dylan's dead body is found, everyone think he hit Renee with his car.

Renee is rushed to a hospital in Denver with three broken ribs, a pulmonary concussion and a subdural hematoma.

During surgery, she suffers complications and falls into a coma. While she's in a coma, Jack and Leo talk to Renee. Finally, she wakes up.

Next: Renee starts recovering from her accident. Jack tries to make her rest. She's reluctantly works from home until the death of the Attorney General on January 20th suddenly sends her back to the White House on her birthday, to Jack's dismay. But, late that night, she shares a special time alone with Jack and he gives her the most special gift of the day.

HERE'S TO THE FUTURE

YEAR 1986

Malibu, California

Teri Thomson was a happy twenty year old woman. She had met a man who was the most perfect man in the universe to her and he had been with her for six months. She was madly in love with Jack Bauer. The two of them had soon become inseparable.

At that moment, the young couple was at the beach, having a lovely time. They were busy making out. But, all the sudden, it began pouring. People began running away from the beach frenetically. But not Teri. She simply stood up, looked at the sky and closed her eyes.

"Come on, sweetheart. We have to go", Jack urged her.

"No way!". Teri thought the rain made the day more fun. She took his hands and practically dragged him to the ocean. Once there, she began spinning around, while trying to catch the raindrops with her tongue.

Jack observed her feeling fascinated. He loved how Teri made everything fun. She truly enjoyed life. She was funny, innocent, pure and so extremely beautiful. Her long brown curls seemed to dance as she spun around. Then she stopped spinning and gave Jack the sweetest smile he had ever seen as they locked eyes.

It was then when he couldn't take it anymore. "Marry me!"

Teri's steel blue eyes widened in shock. She couldn't believe what Jack was saying. "What?".

Jack was shocked too. He had surprised himself. The words just had impulsively come out. But as he thought about it, he realized that it made sense. "Please, don't be scared". He approached her and took her hands. His heart was racing. "Listen, Teri… I… I never had a loving family. But I want to start one now, with you. I love you. I didn't even know what love was until I met you. When I'm with you I don't think about my past. I think about our future. We are both really young, we have so much future before us and I only want to walk towards it with you. I want us to be together forever. Please, would you marry me?".

Teri didn't hesitate. Not even for a second. "Yes… Yes… yes!". She kissed him avidly.

Jack was pleasantly surprised with her answer. He was so extremely happy. He kissed her back and hoisted Teri up. The two lovers remained kissing under the light rain. They felt they were the only two people in the world.

January 1st 2019- Wednesday

08.24 AM- Denver, Colorado. Saint Luke's hospital

Jack and Leo were nervously pacing around outside Renee's hospital bedroom. Renee had been taken for a CT-Scan after she woke up. Then they saw Dr. Zeke Parrish, Renee's neurosurgeon, and a nurse they didn't know taking her back to her bedroom. Jack immediately addressed the doctor. "Doctor, how's she?"

"She's going to be fine", Zeke told them confidently, with a small smile. He could tell the other men were extremely relieved. But then he got serious. "But she keeps saying that she has to go to the White House. And that she has to go to The Hague in five days to testify. Obviously, that's not going to happen. So she's pretty agitated".

"I'll talk to her", Jack promised the doctor.

"I'm going to get her a pajama", Leo offered kindly. "I bet she hates the hospital gown".

"Thank you", Jack took the offer and then rapidly entered Renee's room. He saw her lying on her bed. She looked fine but grumpy. She was fidgeting anxiously. Jack greeted her with concern in his eyes. "Hey".

"Hey", Renee greeted back. Seeing Jack at least put a tiny smile on her face. She was still pissed, though.

"How are you, sweetheart?", Jack asked tenderly and took a seat next to her. He also held her hand tightly.

"I'm fine", Renee assured him crankily. "I'm just worried. I can't get back to work and I can't go testify".

"You've just had brain surgery", Jack reminded him gently. "You need to rest". He lovingly put a lock of hair behind her ear, caressed her cheek and kissed her lips. "I need you to take care of yourself".

Renee squeezed his hand lovingly. She could see how worried he was about her. "I'm gonna be all right, Jack". Renee pressed her lips against his. Then their mouths opened slightly and their tongues caressed one another slowly. They then broke the kiss and remained in silence for a moment, merely holding hands. Jack rubbed the back of her hand with his thumb. Renee looked lost in thoughts. "Jack… what's going to happen now with the hearings? I can't testify".

Jack didn't know the answer. But, right then, he was not worried about the trial. He was worried about her. She looked so frail to him. His protective instincts were stronger than ever. "Don't worry about it now"

Renee looked at him like he was crazy. "How can I not worry?"

Jack actually could understand how she felt. But he just wanted to protect her from all evil. "Renee, again, you have just had brain surgery. You need to rest".

Renee didn't listen to him. "I need to call Landon Kenward"

"Not now. Please rest", Jack begged her, with some desperation was visible in his features. He was afraid talking with the White House Legal counsel would upset her even more. "There are people taking care of the hearings".

Renee was actually feeling pretty sleepy because of the painkillers. But she was trying not to show it because she wanted to work, and she wanted to fix the problem with the hearings, a problem created by her accident. She looked at Jack in the eye. He was so worried. She felt bad about making him worried. She then decided to listen to him and get some rest. After all, she had just come out of brain surgery.

"Okay". Renee sighed unhappily. Jack gave her a tiny smile. Then she moved to a side to make room for Jack in her small hospital bed. "Please, just lie here next to me".

Jack didn't think that was such a good idea. "I don't know. I might hurt you".

"You won't", Renee promised gently. Then she gave him a smile, held his hand and lovingly massaged his knuckles with her thumb. "Please, I just need you to hold me".

Jack doubted for a moment. But then he agreed. "Okay". Then he got settled next to her and held her protectively. She rested her head on his chest. He pressed his lips against the top of her head. "I love you".

Renee smiled and closed her eyes to enjoy his proximity. "I love you too, Jack".

"You saved my life… again", he said. He was close to getting very emotional.

"Well, I owed you one", Renee shrugged dismissively.

"No, you didn't", Jack corrected her with his most serious expression and shook his head disapprovingly. "You should have let the car hit me instead of you".

Renee naturally didn't believe so. "I should have jumped to a side while pushing you".

"It would have been better", he acknowledged.

Renee's face darkened for a moment. "Two years ago I would have done that". She was worried she was losing the skills she had possessed in the past as FBI agent.

"Please, don't beat your self up over that", Jack begged her and kissed her knuckles. "The important thing is that you're still here and you are going to be fine".

"I feel fine", Renee assured him. In reality, she felt sleepy and, in spite of the pain killers, her head ached. But she didn't want him to worry and treat her like a baby.

"You promise?", Jack asked for confirmation. He looked truly concerned.

"Yeah", Renee replied reassuringly and squeezed his hand. "But the painkillers are making me sleepy".

"Then rest, sweetheart". Jack kissed her head again. Renee nodded and then fell asleep in his arms.

January 4th 2019- Saturday

09.13 AM- Denver, Colorado. Saint Luke's hospital

Renee felt so extremely bored. Dr. Parrish had ordered her to relax. So Jack wouldn't let her do anything but watch old sitcoms. He even got upset if she watched the news. Obviously she watched CNN anyway. Jack had gotten very overprotective and borderline possessive. He had gotten a hotel room just to leave their things and take a shower when needed but he never slept there. And he rarely allowed other people to visit her. As much as Renee loved him, she didn't like his behaviour. She felt so annoyed. Right then, he wasn't there, which was a miracle. She was by herself watching a very old sitcom called 'Friends'. But she wasn't too happy about it.

Then Dr. Zeke Parrish walked into Renee's bedroom to check on her. "Good morning, Renee".

"Good morning", Renee replied grumpily. She then sighed frustrated. "I don't understand this show, Doctor", she said pointing at the TV, where the characters were talking in some cafeteria. "Don't this people have jobs?".

While taking her blood pressure, the doctor took a quick look at the screen. He was actually familiar with the show because his wife had been a big fan of it in the 90's. "Yes. If I recall, the girl with black hair is a chef, the man with black hair is a palaeontologist, the guy with brown hair is an actor…"

"But they seem to have a lot of time in the middle of the day to talk about their personal issues and deal with their love lives", Renee pointed out.

"It's a TV show, Renee. You're supposed to just enjoy it and not over think it", Ezekiel told her gently. Then the black doctor added casually, "Personally, it bothers me that there are no black characters on it". Then, he took the patient's temperature. "So, how is your headache?".

"It's almost gone", Renee replied honestly.

"Any numbness?", the doctor asked, while listening to the patient's heart.

Renee shook her head. "No".

The doctor then listened to her breathing. "Take a deep breath". Renee did so, and then the doctor kept questioning her. "You still don't remember the accident?".

"None of it", Renee replied with concern. She sighed resignedly. "Jack told me I pushed him away and that I talked to him right afterwards. But now I don't remember anything".

The doctor nodded, acknowledging her words. "Well…. it's normal. Don't worry. Your memory will be back".

At that moment, Zoe O'Malley Forrest, Renee's assistant, walked timidly into the room. The young woman had traveled to Denver the night before to help Renee with whatever the older woman needed. Apparently, the Chief of Staff wanted to take care of some work-related stuff.

When Zoe saw the doctor she froze. "Oh, I'm sorry. I'll be back later".

"It's okay", Zeke assured the young woman. "I'm finished her here". Then he looked at his patient. "I'll be back this afternoon after your CT-scan".

"Okay. Thank you, Doctor", Renee thanked the doctor, Zeke nodded and then left the room. Renee then smiled at her assistant, glad to see her. "Thank God you're here, Zoe".

"Well, you said you needed me and I'm happy to help", Zoe gave her boss a small smile.

"I hope this is not causing trouble with your husband", Renee told her sincerely.

"Not at all. He's fine", Zoe lied. Her husband had gone ballistic when she told him she would have to go to Denver. He hated the fact that she worked so much. But Zoe wanted to do her job well anyway.

"I would have asked Eric, but I need him in the White House", Renee explained. Eric, her first assistant, was single.

"I know. I understand", Zoe reassured her boss. She was sincerely happy to help, in spite of her husband's strong objection. She then took a seat near her. "So… how are you feeling, Ms. Walker?".

"I'm fine. Thank you", Renee assured her quickly. "So, do you have the list of the people who sent flowers?"

"Yes", Zoe handed her a very long list of people. There were near 500 people there. "Now, I know you want to write personalized thank you notes. But you might want to chose only a few and let me handle the rest"

Renee looked at the list feeling beat. "I guess".

Then Zoe handed her a thick folder. "My father sends you this". Her father was Nathan O'Malley, Director of White House Secret Service Operations. The folder contained sensitive security briefings. "He doesn't trust computers". Then she handed her another folder, which came from the State Department. "Neither does Secretary Heller".

Renee took the folders. "I know. They think anyone can hack into them. And they're right". She then moved on to a topic that truly worried her. "What did Landon Kenward say?".

"Francisco Rodriguez Puente got the judges to postpone your testimony. You have to be there on February the first", Zoe informed her boss. Francisco Rodriguez Puente was the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, an Argentine Attorney who became well known for combating corruption and prosecuting senior military officials for the human rights violations committed during the last dictatorship in his country.

"February the first?", Renee asked with mild disappointment.

"That's when Dr. Parrish said you'll be ready for such a long flight", Zoe confirmed with a nod. Then he added the good news. "He reluctantly agreed to let you go to DC on January the 16th though". Zoe had spoken to the doctor over the phone before arriving to Colorado. She needed Renee's medical information so Landon could give it to Rodriguez Puente.

At that moment, Jack walked into the room with a single red rose in his hand. He had given Renee one rose every day. Even though Renee had received millionths of flowers since the accident, he still wanted to have a romantic gesture. He wanted to show her that he was grateful for every day they shared.

Jack frowned when he saw Zoe there. He could easily guess the young assistant was there because Renee wanted to work. He didn't like it. He still greeted the young woman politely. "Good morning".

Zoe stood up promptly as if the president had walked into the room. "Good morning, Mr. Bauer".

Jack then gave Renee a little kiss on the lips and handed her the rose. "How are you, sweetheart?"

"I'm fine", Renee told him for the millionth time in four days.

Then Jack addressed the younger woman. "Please, Zoe, I need a minute alone with my girlfriend".

"Of course", Zoe agreed rapidly. "You need anything, Ms. Walker?".

"Just get Sean Callahan", Renee requested. "Tell him I can talk to him now".

Zoe nodded and left the room. Jack looked at Renee and shook his head disapprovingly. "I don't want you to get back to work so soon. And I don't want you talking to a reporter. You're supposed to be resting".

Renee looked at him in disbelieve. "You can't tell me what to do".

"I'm not telling you what to do", Jack corrected her rather weakly. "I'm asking you, please, to take care of yourself"

"And I am taking care of myself", Renee told him firmly.

"You had brain surgery four days ago", Jack argued rather loudly.

"Really? Because I thought I was here because I had my tonsils removed", Renee said sarcastically.

Jack's face darkened. "Don't be sarcastic. I'm very serious, Renee".

Renee then got deadly serious. "Jack, we are done discussing this. You're my boyfriend. You're not my father. You're not my babysitter. And you're not my doctor. You can't order me to just lie in here and do nothing"

Jack was not happy to hear that. But he knew he couldn't control Renee. "Fine".

02. 46 PM

Theodore Carson a liberal reporter from Reuters and the runner of 'The Walker Watch', a political website dedicated to Renee. The chief of staff had spoken to several reporters and it was now, finally, his turn. He walked into the hospital bedroom with a bouquet of lilies for her. "Hi, Renee".

"Hello, Ted", Renee greeted back. Then Ted handed her the bouquet. "Oh, thank you. You didn't have to".

"I know. I wanted to". Ted then took a seat near Renee's bed and took his digital recorder from his bag. "So, how are you doing? You really scared us".

"I'm doing fine", Renee replied with a polite smile. "I can't wait to get back to work. I have so much to do".

"What will you be working on?", Ted asked, getting quickly in reporter mode.

"Well, the State of The Union is coming up. And we'll try to get the Moss-Buchanan Advanced PATRIOT Act passed. And, naturally, we are monitoring closely the progress made in The Hague", Renee replied.

Ted nodded acknowledging that fact. "The case Hassan vs. Suvarov and others". He paused before making his question, "What's gonna happen to it now that you won't be able to testify?".

"Actually, they will let me testify on February 1st", Renee clarified.

"So, the case won't be affected?", Ted asked for confirmation.

"It won't", Renee established. "The judges will hear my testimony and the testimonies from the other witnesses and they'll determine whether there's enough evidence to move on to the actual trial".

"Who are the other witnesses for the prosecution?" Ted asked.

"Liz Stockard, Leon Craig, Chloe O'Brian, Cole Ortiz and Jack Bauer", Renee answered.

Ted then decided to change the subject and made a question about a different matter, "Now, about your accident… did you see Dylan Whitmore in the driver's seat when he hit you?".

She sighed and then gave an honest answer. "Frankly, Ted, I don't remember the accident. It's weird. They say that right afterwards I was conscious and talking… but now I can't remember that. My doctor, Dr. Zeke Parrish, said memory lost is common after what I went through". She sighed. But then she shook her head. "But I don't want to think about what happened. I'm more concerned about the future".

06. 37 PM

For the rest of the day, Jack was in the hospital but out of Renee's sight. He went to the cafeteria with his laptop and worked as well. Then he decided to go back to her room. After he walked into her room, they both stared silently at each other for a moment. She still looked so frail to him. The bruises and the cut in her beautiful delicate face looked truly horrible. She woke up every protective instinct Jack had.

Renee finally broke the awkward silence, "Hey"

"Hey", he greeted back. Then he looked around and noticed Renee was alone. "Zoe left".

"Yeah", Renee confirmed dryly. "I'm done working for the day".

There was another awkward silence and then Jack took a seat next to her. "Look, Renee… I'm sorry you feel I'm trying to handle you or tell you what to do. I just want you to get well. I want to protect you".

"I know", Renee admitted softy.

Jack then caressed lovingly the bruise in her face and got emotional. "I thought I was going to lose you forever".

Renee put a hand over the one Jack kept over her cheek. "But I'm right here. You didn't lose me". She then gave him a hug and squeezed him tight. "I'm here and I feel fine". She pressed her lips against his. . Then she moved to a side so Jack could lie next to her.

He lied next to her and held her tight. "I love you, Renee".

"I love you too, Jack". Renee rested comfortably in his arms.

January 17th 2019- Thursday

07.25 PM- Bethesda, Maryland- Walker-Bauer House

Jack arrived home after a day of working hard in the White House. He left her briefcase over a chair and his coat inside the little closet by the front door. He could hear that in the kitchen Renee was talking to a man. He quickly headed to the kitchen. Indeed, Renee was there with a skinny man with black wavy hair and brown eyes. Renee was wearing black pajamas since she was still supposed to be in bed rest, recovering from the accident.

Jack got instantly in alert, since he didn't know the man. "Hey".

Renee smiled when she saw Jack and went quickly to give him a little kiss on the lips. "Hi, honey". Then she proceeded to make the proper introductions. "This is Elias Florrick, our neighbour's son and my lawyer". Then he addressed Elias. "And this is Jack Bauer, my boyfriend".

Elias was Renee's ex boyfriend, besides being her lawyer and Dory's son. They had dated since they were thirteen years old until they were sixteen. Jack knew that. But he didn't know about Elias being also her lawyer. He figured the man was there because Renee was suing the family of the college kid who had hit her with a car.

Jack politely greeted the other man with a handshake. "Nice meeting you, Mr. Florrick".

"Nice meeting you too". Elias then noticed the time. He then looked at Renee apologetically. "Oh, I'm sorry. I have to go. My wife will kill me if I'm late for dinner".

Renee smiled reassuringly. "I understand". Renee escorted Elias to the door. "Thank you, Eli". Renee thanked him and they said goodbye with a friendly kiss on the cheek. Then Jack and Renee were left alone in the house. She headed to the kitchen, where Jack was starting to make dinner.

He turned to look at her. "So, did you have dinner?".

"No. I was waiting for you", she replied.

"I'll fix something", Jack said casually as he checked the frish. Normally, their housekeeper left dinner for them. "I didn't know you and Elias were still friends".

"Yeah. Well… I pushed him away after my first time undercover, like I did with everyone but Larry. But since I needed a lawyer I figured I could call him", Renee explained as she sat by the kitchen table.

"So, you're suing the Whitmores then?", Jack asked just for confirmation. He them found a chicken pot pie.

"Well, yeah…", Renee replied casually. Then she explained, "But he doesn't do criminal law. He came because I'm putting my affairs in order".

Jack instantly left the pie on the counter and turned to look at her with a serious expression. "What?"

Renee didn't understand why he seemed angry. "I'm updating my will".

Jack hated the sound of that. "Why?"

Renee was surprised by his reaction. "Well… Larry was still in it, and you and Leo weren't".

Jack automatically objected strongly. "I don't want to be!".

Renee was still confused and astonished. "I'm sorry. But this is about my will".

Jack didn't even want to think about what would happen if Renee died; the mere idea was unthinkable to him. And, naturally, he didn't want to profit from tragedy. But that wasn't even the point because he could always donate the money. He simply didn't want to think about losing her. "You don't need a will"

He was being irrational. Renee tried to reason with him gently, "Jack… I do need it. I was about to die a few days ago. And I was about to die twice last May".

Jack naturally remembered that too well. He knew the idea was logical. But the idea of Renee having a will still scared him. He shook his head disapprovingly. "I don't like this".

Renee gave him a look full of compassion. She then stood up and put a hand on his shoulder. "It's okay, Jack. I'm sure this will be needed in many-many years from now".

Jack sighed feeling beat. He knew he had to accept what Renee wanted to do, even if she didn't like it. Out of curiosity, he took a folder with Renee's will and gave its content a quick casual look. He then raised his eyebrows with surprise. "You are leaving money to Amnesty International too?"

"Yeah", Renee confirmed.

Obviously Renee was still trying to redeem herself. Jack shook his head. "You have to stop feeling so guilty".

Renee ignored him and simply began reheating the chicken pot pie. Jack then came across something truly disturbing in Renee's will. It was an 'advance health care directive', instructions given by Renee specifying what actions should be taken for her health if she were no longer able to make decisions due to illness or incapacity. Thinking about such matters made Jack chilly. He was then surprised when he noticed Renee had appointed Leon Craig to make such decisions on her behalf.

"You chose Craig to make medical decisions for you? Why not me?", Jack asked, with mild outrage.

Renee turned around to face him and explain her decision. "I didn't want to burden you. I know you, Jack. I know you probably couldn't live with yourself if you had to… unplug me or something". She didn't want to cause Jack such pain. She hated causing Leo pain too. But she had to choose someone.

Jack detested the conversation more and more with every passing second. "I don't want anybody to 'unplug' you"

"I don't want to end up like Charles Logan, Jack", Renee affirmed seriously. The former president was still in a persistent vegetative state and would never wake up. That fate terrified Renee to the core.

Jack had to admit to himself that ending up like Charles Logan had to be more than horrible. "Well… I don't want you to suffer", he conceded reluctantly. "It's just… I just hate this conversation".

"I know, honey", Renee sighed, got closer to him and caressed the side of his arm. "But I have to be smart. I don't have a family to take care of all this things. If something happened to me, they would have to contact a second cousin I have in Ireland, who doesn't even know me. So I have to express on paper what I want".

Jack stared at the papers looking pensive for a moment. Then a crazy idea came to his head. Or, maybe, it wasn't crazy at all. It felt right. It made perfect sense. He felt ready for it. He hesitated for a moment. He opened his mouth to say something and then closeted it again. Then he finally summoned his courage and tentatively expressed his idea. "Maybe… Maybe we should… we should get married".

Renee widened his eyes in profound shock and looked at Jack like he was crazy. "What?"

He passionately made his point, which made perfect sense to him. "Think about it. You don't have a family. And if a tragedy happens you'd need someone to be in charge of everything, someone who loves you and knows you. And it should be me. It should be my job to protect you and to take care of everything. I don't want anybody else to do it. As much as I hate to even think for a second about all this…". He took her will and waved the papers for extra emphasis. "…it should be my responsibility".

Renee stared at him feeling horrified. Terror had taken over her. "Are you out of your mind?".

Jack desperately tried to reason with her. "Look… I know we have only been together for a few months. But I want to marry you. I don't want to be just your boyfriend. It doesn't seem right. I want to be your husband".

"You don't want to marry me, Jack. You want to control me. And I'm not going to let that happen", Renee stated categorically, but with fear in her eyes. What Jack was saying, his reasons for proposing sounded crazy to her.

"I don't want to control you", Jack claimed rather weakly.

Renee sighed with frustration. "Yes, you do. Your proposal is not even a real proposal". She sighed again getting truly exasperated. He felt trapped in a very small closet. "A proposal should include a ring and one thousand red roses. It should be romantic". She sighed with visible exasperation. "This is not a proposal, is an attempt to control me and win your stupid competition with Leo".

"That's not true", Jack stated, but he wasn't very convincing.

Renee looked at him clearly distressed. She didn't believe him. She didn't like why he was proposing. He was merely proposing because he wanted to be in charge of her. "I'm sorry, Jack. I can't marry you".

Jack's heart sunk to his feet. "Are you saying you'll never marry me?"

"No", Renee clarified quickly. "I'll marry you when you stop being so controlling and possessive"

Jack was extremely disappointed. He wanted to marry her and he didn't believe he was controlling and possessive. Yet, he couldn't force her to do something she didn't want to do. "It's too soon anyway", he sadly conceded. He sighed. "Maybe… maybe we can talk about this again in a few months".

"All right", Renee agreed without hesitating. She then tentatively got closer to him with a concerned expression. "So, are we okay?". Jack nodded. "What we have now is perfect". Jack nodded again and gave her a small smile. She put his arms around his neck. "I really love you, Jack"

"I know", Jack acknowledged. He put his arms around her waist and gave her a small smile. "It's my fault. I should have known it was too soon".

Renee nodded in agreement and then squeezed Jack tight. As she held him she closed her eyes to savour the tight embrace. She didn't want to lose him. "We'll get there, honey", she promised whispering.

"Yeah", he whispered back. He then looked at her in the eye and put a lock of auburn hair behind her ear. "But… Renee, I'm not trying to control you or own you..."

"I know", Renee rushed to clarify. "I know. I'm just not ready…".

Jack lovingly placed a finger over her mouth to stop her from saying anything else. "It's okay. Don't worry. It'll happen when you're ready".

January 18th 2019- Friday

02.33 PM- Bethesda, Maryland- Walker-Bauer House

Renee was sitting by her kitchen table, doing some work. She was supposed to be resting, but, right then, she was talking over the phone with Grayson Upwood, Director of CTU NYC. They were talking about Sergei Bazhaev. Bazhaev's wife, daughter in law and granddaughter had been threatened, so he had sent a letter to The Hague taking full responsibility for the events of the day Omar Hassan was murdered. The president had reluctantly agreed to give him immunity and protection in exchange for his cooperation.

"Ms. Walker, Agent McDole spent several hours questioning Bazhaev and trying to convince him to take the deal, to no avail. But perhaps Agent McDole could be more, uh… persuasive, if only you authorized him… ".

"No", Renee cut her off sharply. Her features darkened. "That is not what President Taylor wants, first of all. And secondly, Bazhaev served in the Soviet army for several years and spent 12 years of his life in a Russian labor camp… he's never going to break".

"Everybody breaks"

'Tell that to the Chinese', Renee thought but didn't say. She then sighed frustrated. "Mr. Upwood… once the Moss-Buchanan Advanced PATRIOT Act becomes a law your men will be able to question suspects more… strongly".

The current legislation, established under Allison Taylor herself, didn't allow strong methods of interrogation. But, after Omar Hassan's death, she had re-thought things. Now she was trying to get the Moss-Buchanan Advanced PATRIOT Act passed. The act allowed certain strong methods of interrogation but only if it was first proven beyond reasonable doubt that the subject had a connection with known terrorist and possessed information that could stop an imminent terrorist attack in US soil and that all the other ways to get that information were attempted but failed. And no agent was allowed to question anybody in the field, unsupervised.

"But not Mr. Bazhaev… the information he possesses won't stop an imminent terrorist threat. He would simply provide evidence about an attack that already happened".

There was then a silence. Renee couldn't argue Grayson's point. She then thought of an idea and patiently explained it to him. "Look… if Suvarov and Novakovich are released, we could, maybe, consider them a threat to our national security… so, all evidence Bazhaev has against them would be considered fundamental. And if they are sent to jail for good… none of this will matter".

"What's the status of the act?"

"We need fourteen more votes for it to become a law", Renee replied.

January 19th 2019- Saturday

11.47 PM- Bethesda, Maryland- Walker-Bauer House

Jack was already wearing the blue t-shirt he wore to sleep. He went to Renee's study and saw her working on the State of the Union address. He massaged her shoulder and kissed her head. "Are you coming to bed?".

Renee stood up and turned around to face him with a mile. "Yes, actually". She closed her laptop and they went to their room with their arms around each other. Renee then whispered very softly in his ear. "I have a surprise for you… don't move". Then she nibbled his lobule and went to the bathroom.

Jack was very intrigued. After a few minutes, Renee came out of the bathroom wearing a sexy and very short light-pink nightgown. Jack was practically drooling. They hadn't made love since before the accident. He was more than a little aroused. But he tried to restrain himself. Her surgery had been only nineteen days ago. He didn't think it was safe for them to get engaged in physical activities yet.

Renee noticed he didn't look very happy. "What's wrong? Don't you like it?". She approached him sexily.

"I do. Very much". Jack cleared his throat nervously and used all his will power to avoid grabbing her and kissing her. The image of her in a hospital bed so tiny, so hurt and so vulnerable came to his head. He felt like she could break if he made love to her. "But… But I don't want to hurt you. I mean… your bruises are not even gone yet".

"But I feel fine", Renee assured him sincerely. "My appetite is back. I'm actually very hungry". Renee got even closer to him and kissed his neck and the spot behind his lobules.

Jack closed his eyes, enjoying the kisses. But then he came back to his senses and pushed her away. "No… no… You almost died on me just nineteen days ago. I won't do anything that might hurt you".

Renee's eyes were full of compassion. She understood the kind of fear Jack had felt while she was in a coma. She understood why now he wanted to treat her like she was made of crystal. But he didn't need to treat her in such way. She cupped his cheek with her hand and tried to reason with him. "Jack… there's no danger. It's just you and me in bed. That could never be wrong if we both want it bad. And I trust you. If it hurts me, you'll stop right away".

"Of course", Jack confirmed in an instant. Then Renee kissed him with obvious desire. For a moment, he kept his lips closed. He was unsure. But soon he opened his mouth and their tongues began caressing each other slowly.

Jack scooped her up and, very gently, deposited her in the bed. They got under the covers and kept kissing each other. Then Jack allowed Renee to take the lead, since he still felt she was vulnerable. Renee positioned her self on top of him, removed his t-shirt and kissed his chest.

Then Jack simply closed his eyes and allowed himself get carried away by his consuming passion.

January 20th 2019- Sunday

08.35 AM- Bethesda, Maryland- Walker-Bauer House

He was in a yellow taxi, holding Renee. He was desperate, horrified and terrified. She had been shot. She was dying. Jack could tell she wouldn't make it. But he refused to accept reality. He couldn't lose her.

Jack abruptly jerked awake. The nightmare chilled him to the core. But he quickly realized it had been just a nightmare. Renee was sleeping peacefully on the left side of the bed. His relief was immense. Not only she was fine, but it was her birthday. Renee was one year older. He was so massively grateful for that. He had thought she would die at the age of thirty eight. He thought that when Vladimir held her at gun point and she begged him to kill her. And he also thought that when a speeding Ferrari hit her. The fact that her 39th birthday had arrived was a miracle, a miracle he was more than happy to celebrate.

He left the bed and pulled the curtains open to let some light get in the bedroom. He liked nothing more than watching her sleep under the morning light, while the morning light showered her beautiful features. Then, he got settled next to her. As she often did, Renee instinctively rested her head on his chest in her sleep. She also put an arm around his torso and a leg on top of his. It meant she was waking up.

A few minutes later, Renee woke up. Jack kissed the top of her head. "Happy birthday, sweetheart".

"Thank you", Renee mumbled, still half asleep.

"No, thank you for being born", Jack said whispering softly and tightened the embrace.

Renee put her hand underneath Jack's blue sleeping t-shirt and caressed his chest. "Thank you for being here with me. This birthday wouldn't be happy at all without you".

Jack ran his fingers through her long dark auburn hair. Then, a little bit of sadness covered his face. "I wish you had let me there for you last year. I bet it was a horrible day".

Renee's face saddened too. "It was just a day. Like most of my days back then, I spent it in bed". She then could see the cloud of sadness that had covered Jack's face. She tried to reassure him. "But that's the past. Now I'm happy. I'm going to spend this one and all my future birthdays with you, right?"

"Of course", Jack confirmed. He wanted to be with her for the rest of his life and celebrate many-many birthdays with her. Then he lovingly caressed with the back of his hand her cheek, where she still had a very nasty bruise. It chilled him to think about how close he had come to losing her forever. "Thank God you're here to see this day"

They remained silent for a moment, with their eyes closed, just enjoying each other's proximity. Then Renee somewhat fearfully made a question. "Is this party the president is throwing going to be a big thing?".

Jack faked confusion. "What party?".

"I know the president is throwing a surprise party for me", Renee informed him.

Jack was extremely disappointed, "How did you find out?".

"Nathan has to send me a report every other day and he had to include that he vetted the guests of my birthday party", Renee explained casually. "So, is it going to be a big thing?".

"Not at all", Jack told her with a sarcastic tone. Then he joked, "Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand will give a concert. Elton John too, and he rewrote 'Candle in the wind' to make it about you". Renee chuckled, clearly amused. Happy to see her chuckle, Jack continued teasing her. "George Clooney will come. Now, the pope has a preview commitment, but he's trying to get out of it".

"Very funny, Jack", Renee said sarcastically. "Now, seriously… I don't want a big party".

"The president knows you, Renee. She respects your wishes", Jack assured her.

"She shouldn't have bothered at all", Renee sighed and looked guilty.

"It's okay, sweetheart", he reassured her. "The White House Social Director and the First Gentleman did all the work. The president just gave the order". He paused and kissed the top of her head. "You almost died on us. She wants to celebrate that you're alive". He then lowered his voice to a whisper. "And so do I".

Renee was so moved. She had many people who loved her. A year ago she had nobody. "Thank you, Jack. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you".

"And I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for you", Jack reminded her and kissed the top of her head once again. He then decided it was time to giver her one of the presents he had gotten for her. "Hey, wanna open your first present?"

Renee looked confused. "My first present?".

"Yeah… I've bought a few little presents for you. I'll give them all to you through the day", Jack explained.

Renee quickly began protesting, "Jack… you really shouldn't…". Jack shut her up by getting on top of her and kissing her very passionately. They broke the kiss to take some air. "We can leave the gifts for later".

09.12 AM

After making love, Jack took Renee to her study, where he had put the first gift he wanted to give her. Renee was honestly delighted when she saw it.

It was a spectacular, personalized and highly detailed map, to mark with pins placed she had visited and dream destinations. The laminated surface allowed her to write notes on the map, such as dates connected to the travels. The map was finished in light wood oak. Around the edge of the map there was s quote 'Travel and change of places impact new vigor to the mind', by Seneca.

"Oh, Jack… it's beautiful", Renee sincerely praised the gift.

"I bought it because your dream is to travel to a lot of places someday", Jack explained. He then got nearer her and put a lock of hair behind her ear. "And I definitely want to be with you when you do". He gave her a little kiss on the lips. "You know? After Teri died I stopped making plans for the future… when I saw ahead I saw nothing but darkness… but now I can see us traveling and growing old together and it feels great".

Renee was so profoundly moved. She threw her arms around him and kissed her fiercely. "Thank you, Jack… Thank you for the gift and for giving me a future worth living for".

09.23 AM

While Jack made her favourite breakfast, Renee noticed that one of her favourite coffee mugs was already over the table; it was the one that said 'I'm not always right, but I'm never wrong.'. But it didn't have coffee inside. Instead, it had a small box. It was obviously another present Jack had gotten for her and put there to surprise her. She smiled and thought the gesture was very cute.

Jack watched her expectantly as Renee opened the gift. It was a pair of silver heart-shaped earrings. They matched Renee's favorite necklace, the one with a silver heart that had her name on the back.

She was enchanted when she saw them. "Jack, these are so beautiful. Thank you". Renee put a hand on his cheek and tenderly kissed his lips. "One gift was plenty, you know?"

Jack simply put his arms around her waist. "I love spoiling you. It's my new hobby. Lei it go".

Renee kept his arms rested on his shoulders. "Well… I'm very grateful".

"Really? Very grateful?", Jack asked arching his eyebrows mischievously. Renee just smiled seductively and kissed the spot behind her lobule.

They were abruptly interrupted by the phone ringing. Renee thought it was someone to wish her a happy birthday. She answered the call. "Hello?". It was someone from the justice department. "Yes. How may I help you?". Renee heard what the other person told her and felt shocked. "What? What happened?". She paused to hear the answer to her question. "Oh… I'm so sorry". She made another pause. "Of course. Just send us the information". She paused yet again as the caller wrapped up the call. "Okay. Thank you".

Jack observed Renee looking pensive after the call. "What happened?".

Renee couldn't overcome her astonishment. "Ned Borden is dead. He had a heart attack".

Edmund 'Ned' Borden was the United States Attorney General since the beginning of the Taylor administration. He was known to Renee because he had filed a complaint to the FBI office, led then by Larry Moss, because of her illegal torture of Alan Tanner, and Alan Wilson after that. But Renee didn't blame Borden for filing the complain, the man was just doing his job.

Jack was surprised to hear the news. "A heart attack? Wasn't he fifty six?"

"Fifty five", Renee corrected him. She and Jack shared a look. They were both thinking about how frail life was.

Suddenly the phone rang again. Renee took the call. "Hello?". It was her deputy George Sullivan. "Yes, I heard". She paused as George said something and then replied, "Yes, gather the communications team. I'm on my way". Just like that, Renee ended the call. She then looked at Jack and could see his disappointment. "I'm sorry, Jack. I have to go to the white house".

"I understand", Jack gently reassured her. "It's just… I wanted to spend the day with you".

Renee felt the same way. But there was unfortunately nothing she could do about it.

10.36 AM- Washington DC. – White House

Renee quickly walked into the lobby of the west wing wearing a dark-grey Calvin Klein skirt suit. George was already there waiting for her and greeted his boss enthusiastically, "Happy birthday, Renee".

"Thank you". They both began rapidly walking side by side and talked. Renee gave her deputy a look, "What do you think about Gerard Templeton?".

Gerard Templeton was the Deputy Attorney General of the United States, the natural choice to succeed Ned Borden. But George didn't like that man. "They say that when he was Attorney General for Illinois he took bribes from a drug lord. It was never proven though. But I think it's true. He's dirty".

Renee couldn't quite believe that. "And President Taylor named him Deputy Attorney General?"

"She didn't like it", George clarified instantly. "But Templeton and Mitchell Hayworth are close friends…"

Renee could easily guess what had happened. Her expression turned darker. "Let me guess… the President needed something from the vice president and they made a deal".

"She needed his help to get the cabinet she wanted confirmed", George explained casually with a shrug. "Besides she thinks Templeton is innocent".

They quickly reached the ante chamber of Renee office. Eric Pratt, Renee's first assistant, was there waiting for his boss. The young black man was genuinely happy to see Renee up and about. He had gone to her house to visit her while she was recovering, but it was the first time after the accident that Renee came to the White House. He gave her a smile. "Welcome back, Ms. Walker. And happy birthday".

"Thank you, Eric", Renee smiled back at him. "So, I'm gonna see the president now"

"All right", Eric acknowledged with a bow of the head. "Oh, and I put the presents in your office".

Renee looked at him confused. "The presents?"

"People have been sending you birthday presents since Friday", Eric explained, surprised that Renee didn't know. Then he added nonchalantly, "fifty six and counting"

Renee was very surprised to hear that, and very flattered too. "Really? Well, schedule some time tomorrow for me to write thank you notes".

"Of course", Eric nodded in agreement.

Renee and George then continued their way to the oval office. As they walked, Renee shook her head and sighed, looking somewhat frustrated. "Fifty six? Why would all those people sent me presents?".

George looked at her in profound disbelief. "You're the white house chief of staff, the second most powerful person in the country, the door to the president". He paused gave her another incredulous stare. "Politicians want to kiss your butt". Then he added, "I brought you a little something too. It's with the others"

"Thank you". Renee gave him a small appreciative smile.

They reached the ante chamber of the Oval Office, where Patrick Birdsall, the president's personal aide, was working by his desk. It wasn't unusual for the young man to work on a Sunday, since he was needed practically all the time. When he saw the chief of staff and his deputy approaching, he promptly stood up, "Welcome back, Ms. Walker and happy birthday. Good morning, Mr. Sullivan. The president is waiting for you".

Renee gave him a polite smile. "Thank you, Patrick".

President Allison Taylor was sitting behind her desk, working, while her faithful dog, Fox, slept comfortably on a couch. Then Renee and George walked into the office. Allison was incredibly happy to see her friend. She had visited Renee in the manor, but it was really nice to see her up and about. She gave her a smile that reached her electric-blue eyes. "Welcome back, Renee. And happy birthday".

Renee returned the smile. "Thank you, Madam President". After greeting the president, Renee petted Fox, who had woken up to greet her excitedly.

At that moment, Caldwell Coleman, Communications Director, Lynnette Lockhart, his deputy and Angie Nelson, Press Secretary, arrived to the Oval Office. The three of them politely said practically at the same time "Good morning", "welcome back, Renee" and "happy birthday".

"Thank you. It's nice to be back", Renee replied sincerely happy to be in the White House again. Fox kept sniffing her and walking in circles around her while wagging its tail.

They all took their seats in their usual spots on the two couches and two chairs that were in the middle of the oval office. The four-month puppy got quickly settled in Allison's lap. Caldwell was the one who began talking, "Madam President, I'm afraid that promoting Gerard Templeton would bring attention to a controversial matter that… that's better off under the carpet".

Allison knew very well what Caldwell meant. "You mean the fact that he was accused of talking bribes from a drug lord". There was an awkward silence in the room. The president got very serious. "It was never proven that he did such a thing. I would have never named him Deputy Attorney general if he were corrupt".

"Of course not, ma'am", Caldwell accepted timidly. "But maybe he's dirty even though you think he isn't".

George then got quickly into the conversation. "Either way… the allegations alone would make his promotion controversial".

Lynnette then posed a rhetorical question. "And what if we find out he's actually guilty after promoting him?". George made an exactly gesture while Caldwell nodded in agreement.

"I know", the president affirmed. "And I'm not interested in promoting him".

Renee read the president's tone and expression. "You already have someone in mind", she stated, not truly surprised. Allison always thought truly fast.

"Yes", Allison confirmed with clear determination. "Allen Monroe, attorney General for the state of New York. He went to Harvard with me and Henry".

There was a silence while they all thought about the president's idea. Angie nodded approvingly. "The press will love him. He became known recently for putting the leader of an Italian mob in jail".

"He risked his own life by doing that", Allison pointed out, clearly impressed.

"But he's a democrat", George instantly protested.

"So is half the country", the president replied casually.

"He makes Michael Moore look like Ronald Reagan", George insisted.

"George". Renee shot her deputy a warning stare. Then her crystal-blue eyes shifted from George to the president. "Do you want me to set a meeting with him?".

The president nodded in confirmation. Then Caldwell suggested, "We can start vetting him right now. But, until we do, we shouldn't make it public that we are considering him".

Then Lynnette made a suggestion of her own. "Maybe he can come to Renee's birthday party".

"Find out if he can", Renee requested, realizing that her birthday party had just turned into a political event. "And start calling senators, test the waters. We want to know if he's confirmable".

"I want the confirmation to happen as soon as possible", Allison added. Then she stood up and left Fox on the chair. She considered the meeting over. "Thank you, everyone". After the usual chorus of 'thank you, madam president', they began leaving the office. "Renee… wait".

Renee instantly turned around to look at Allison. "Yes, ma'am?".

"I've got something for you", the president told her with a small smile. She went behind her desk and took a present she had gotten for her friend. She then handed it to her. "Happy birthday, Renee".

Renee opened the gift intrigued. It was a beautiful silver necklace with a four-leaf clover made of a rare green garnet, Renee's birthstone. She was very happy with the gift. "Ma'am, this is beautiful. I love it thank you".

Allison gave her a smile and then hugged her friend. "They said it'll give you good luck".

"I feel lucky already", Renee admitted in a heartbeat.

12.35 PM

Renee was sitting behind her desk, opening some of the gifts she had received. She noticed with surprise that Nikolai Karkov, the Russian president, had sent her something typical from his country… a matryoshka doll. Renee found it cute. She took the wooden dolls of decreasing size and placed them separately, over her desk, one next to each other. Then she observed them for a little while. After that, she carefully put them back one inside the other.

At that moment, Jack walked into the office, with a gift in his hands. "Hey"

"Hey". Renee smiled when she saw him and stood up.

"I came to kidnap you for lunch", Jack announced as he got closer to her. He gave her a small kiss on the lips and then handed her the gift. "And I wanted to give you this".

Renee shook her head, thinking he was helpless. Then she happily opened the gift. It was a pale-blue oversized t-shirt which said 'If you fall seven times, stand up eight'.

"I know you like these sorts of t-shirts", Jack explained. "And that Japanese proverb happens to be a good advice"

"It is. I really like it. Thank you". Renee put her arms around him and gave him a very passionate kiss.

8.30 PM

The president had organized a simple but beautiful party. She had even gotten a famous female singer. Jack then secretly requested a very special song. When the music started, he and Renee locked eyes and she smiled at him. He got near her and reached out his hand. She held his hand and they headed to the dance floor.

It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart
Without saying a word, You can light up the dark

Jack put his arms around Renee's waist and she put her arms around his neck.

Try as I may I could never explain
What I hear when you don't say a thing

Their friends, Liz and Leo, joined them in the dance floor and began dancing too.

Liz took a quick look at Jack and Renee and smiled. "They are adorable, aren't they?"

"Yeah…", Leo agreed, getting his head closer to Liz's blonde short curls and smelling the sweet fragrance of her Givenchi 'Very Irresistible' perfume. "And we are adorable too, right?"

Liz replied in an instant. "Of course, I love us"

Leo gave her a soft kiss on the lips.

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me whenever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all

George Sullivan locked eyes with his lover Colonel Nora McNally, reached out his hand to her and winked his eye. Nora hesitated for a moment. But then she made a why-the-hell-not? gesture and began dancing with George.

"Looking good, Colonel", George whispered softly on her ear. Nora looked stunning as always with a sexy forest-green dress that went perfectly with her emerald-green eyes.

"You too, Mr. Sullivan", she whispered back. She had to admit that George was a very cute guy. He wasn't particularly 'breathtaking', but possessed certain charm and was good in bed. She realized she was growing fonder of him, which concerned her deeply. But, for the moment, she would simply enjoy.

Allison and Ethan enjoyed observing the young couples while holding hands. He squeezed lovingly her hand. Then he looked deep into her baby-blue eyes and gave her a little kiss on the lips. Things were now perfect between them after their little fight about reelection.

All day long I can hear people talking out loud
But when you hold me near you drown out the crowd

Try as they may they could never define
What's been said between your heart and mine

Chloe O'Brian and her husband Morris also began dancing. It made her a bit uncomfortable to show affection in public, but she loved her husband deeply, so she allowed certain things. Morris loved to show affection all the time. As they began dancing, he gave her a kiss on the neck.

"I'm glad Jack is happy. It took him such a long time", Chloe commented, giving Jack and Renee a look. "But I'm also worried".

"Why, darling?", Morris asked with surprised.

"When things are this good something horrible happens", Chloe pointed out wrinkling her nose.

"But, Darling…". Morris tried to reason with his wide and be more optimistic. "They were already shot at…. They had to fight the Russian mob. She was hit by a car… What else can happen to them?",

Chloe bit her lip doubtfully. "I guess you're right".

Meanwhile, Jack and Renee moved along with the music and got even closer together. She rested her chin on his shoulder and they kept dancing cheek to cheek.

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me whenever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all

10.56 PM- Bethesda, Maryland- Walker-Bauer House

After Renee's birthday party, Jack and Renee headed back to their home. In the car, they were talking about Allen Monroe. "So, is he going to get confirmed?", Jack asked.

"I think so. We have already been promised forty six votes", Renee replied.

Jack parked the vehicle in the garage and the couple got off the car. They stepped into the living room of the manor and turned the lights on. Renee gasped stunned. All around, there were hundredths of beautiful red roses. She looked at Jack in disbelief.

"One thousand", Jack told her quickly before she could ask. "Not nine hundredth ninety nine or one thousand and one… but one thousand exactly… you can count them".

"Jack…", Renee was astonished. She knew, naturally, what the numbers of red roses meant.

"I know you're scared. But, please, hear me out", he whispered as he got closer to her and held his hand. "You and I are not perfect. But we make a perfect team. We fall and stand up together. We can face anything that comes our way if we are together". He squeezed her hand. His voice was breaking. He was so full with many different emotions. He swallowed and managed to carry on speaking without breaking down. "With you, I already feel like I'm married to my best friend". He then pulled a little box from his pocket and opened it. There was a beautiful engagement ring inside that box. It had a diamond, which was franked by two sapphires. Jack smiled when he saw Renee looked at the ring with delight. He lowered his voice and continued his speech. "It feels like we've been married forever. I just want to make it official. And I don't want to control you. I want to protect you". Then he cleared his throat nervously before making the jackpot question. "Renee, would you marry me?".

At first, Renee was too overwhelmed with emotion to say anything. She simply nodded as she tried not to cry. She was scared, but she couldn't resist him anymore. After a moment, she could finally speak. "Yes!". Jack's face instantly lighted up. Renee nodded again. "Yes", she repeated her answer and Jack pulled her closer to him for a very sweet kiss. "Of course I'll marry you, my love. You… you make me happier than I ever thought I could be. And I want to spend the rest of my life next to you".

They kissed eagerly again and then Jack put the gorgeous ring on her left ring finger. They both chuckled and stared into each other's eyes, not being able to believe how happy they were and how promising the future before them was.

END OF PART 3

(Hope you liked this part! Please… send me reviews. And I hope to see you on part 4).