grabbed Hunter’s hand. She pulled him onto the balcony and closed the door. “Please give me time to explain.” Hunter leaned down and kissed her lips gently. He ran his fingers through her hair and pulled her close. “Maddy, I don’t care who you have lunch with, I was just surprised. You are right, you didn’t have time to tell me but that doesn’t mean anything. You have friends and I don’t control you.” She smiled. “I love you.” “Right back at ya.” He kissed her again. “I’m proud of you. You stood up to her again. I love seeing that strong side of you.” She laughed. “You should have seen Mike today. He didn’t even blink when she started in on me.” “What was her problem today?” “She’s obsessed with Mike. She loves social status and me being with him is big to her.” He groaned and walked inside. She followed behind him as he made a beeline towards her parents. She grabbed his arm. “Hunter, please think before you act.” He glared at her and then back at the group. “Madison and I are leaving.” Carter jumped in. “I’m so sick of this. I can’t take the fact our family can’t be in the same room with each other. Alicia’s family is so loving and caring. We can’t even get along. The minute Madison shows up, things get tense and uneasy. Why is that, Mom?” “Carter, why are you getting so upset?” she asked. “Mom, you can’t be in the same room as your daughter. You don’t see that as a problem?” “Of course I can be in the same room. She’s standing right there.” Carter sighed and threw his hands up in the air. Madison walked over to him and hugged him. She whispered in his ear. “Thank you.” He pulled back and looked at her. “Maddy, I’m trying to make our family whole again.” Madison chuckled. “The problem is that we were never whole to begin with, Carter. I was always the outcast. It’s just the way it is with us. But, you and I have a chance at a better life with each other. I’m not worried about them anymore. I have you and that adorable fiancée of yours.” Alicia came over and hugged her. “You will always be a part of our lives.” She smiled and continued, “I have the best boyfriend and I’m starting a career. I’m fine. I’m with you, Carter. I can’t take the drama anymore. It is what it is.” Hunter grabbed her hand and kissed it. “Let’s go home.” She smiled and nodded. “Good idea. I love you guys.” Carter looked at his parents. “You can’t see that she has grown up, can you? Will you ever accept her?” Madison didn’t wait for a response. She kissed Alicia and headed out the door. Hunter pressed the button for the elevator. “You ok?” She nodded. “Yep, I’m getting better at this.” They stepped into the elevator and he pulled her into his arms. “I’m proud of you.” He kissed her lightly. She moaned softly as he smirked. “What was that for?” “You, your lips are a drug for me.” “I’m happy that I can help you out.” The elevator arrived at the lobby as they walked to his truck. They drove back to this apartment and headed straight towards the bedroom. Madison yawned as he removed his shirt and tie. “You tired?” She nodded. “I feel like the move is finally catching up with me.” He nodded. “I’m not surprised. Come here, baby.” She walked over to him as he wrapped his arms around her. “I want you to close your eyes and sit on the bed. I have a surprise for you.” She smiled as she sat down. She heard him leave the room and come about fifteen minutes later. He grabbed her hand and whispered, “Keep your eyes closed.” She felt him lift her shirt over her head as he traced his fingers down her bare arms. She moved closer to him as she heard the hitch in his breathing. His fingers moved down her stomach and undid the buttons on her jeans. He moved them down her legs as he placed a kiss at her core. She moved her hands into his hair as he