"Dis was a huge wake-up call." Alisa admitted, looking at Ryan straight in the eyes. "How I was does not matter anymore, you're right. I am who I am, now, an' I like dis me. I feel like a whole weight is gone, and dat I am finally free. No longer controlled by others, no longer stuck just settling for less den what I deserve, and no longer full o' anger an' hate because I was jealous o' others for havin' what I could never have."

It took a lot for her to admit all of that to Ryan. She reached out to hold his hand, to stop it from drumming on his leg.

"You were really scared, weren't you? I'm sorry I made you feel dat way, Ryan. But t'ose were just kids Arcade made me kidnap. Kids wit' lives an' families, playin' horrible life an' death games for some sicko's entertainment. De stuff nightmares are made of! If I 'ad to do what I did to save dem all over again, I would. No kid needs to be put in such a situation! I still believe I made de right call." Her eyes teared up a bit, but her smile did not waver as her other hand moved to stroke the side of his face.

"De only t'ing I woulda done differently, was said I still loved you. But I could not do dat. Not when I know you found someone so special an' perfect for you. I don' want you to ever be sad, Ryan. I want you to be happy, always."