Chapter 8: Justice and Healing

The next morning, Zane sat on the couch, his eyes fixed on Zack as he slept on the armchair, his head resting on a pillow. The events of the previous day still lingered in his mind, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of regret and guilt for not being there for his brother sooner. He gently got up and began to make breakfast, the aroma of scrambled eggs and toast filling the air. Zack woke up to the delicious smell and stretched, rubbing his eyes. "Morning," he said, his voice still husky from sleep. Zane smiled and handed him a plate of food. "Morning, little brother. Eat up, we've got a lot to take care of today." Zack nodded, devouring his breakfast. As they finished, Zane pulled out his phone and dialed a number. Zack's eyes widened as he realized what was happening. "Who are you calling?" he asked, his voice trembling. "The police," Zane replied, his expression firm. "It's time we reported Dad's abuse and got him the help he needs." Zack's heart sank, but he knew it was the right thing to do. He nodded, feeling a mix of emotions: fear, anxiety, and relief. The police arrived shortly, and Zack recounted the abuse he had suffered at the hands of his father. It was a difficult conversation, but with Zane by his side, he felt a sense of strength and courage. The days that followed were a blur of police reports, court appearances, and therapy sessions. Zack's father was arrested and charged with child abuse and drug possession. The trial was a grueling process, but ultimately, he was found guilty and sentenced to 36 years in prison. As the verdict was read, Zack felt a wave of emotions wash over him. He was relieved that his father would no longer be able to hurt him, but he was also sad that it had come to this. Zane put his arm around him, holding him close. "You're safe now, little brother," he said. "You're safe, and I'm here for you." Zack smiled, feeling a sense of peace wash over him. He knew that he still had a long way to go, but with Zane by his side, he felt like he could face anything. In the months that followed, Zack began to heal and adjust to life with Zane and Allie. He started therapy sessions to deal with the trauma of his past, and slowly but surely, he began to rebuild his life. Zane and Zack's relationship grew stronger with each passing day. They talked and laughed together, sharing stories and memories. Zack finally felt like he had a brother, a friend, and a family. As they sat on the couch, watching a movie together, Zack turned to Zane and smiled. "Thanks for being here for me," he said, his voice filled with emotion. Zane smiled back, his eyes shining with tears. "I'll always be here for you, little brother," he said. "You're my family, and I'll never let you go again." In that moment, Zack knew that he was home, that he was safe, and that he was loved. He felt a sense of happiness and contentment that he had never felt before, and he knew that he would always cherish it.