I’ve decided to use most of the GFM money to start a foundation in Spencer’s name that will have two purposes—to pay for rehab for people who can’t afford it and to help families like mine that have been devastated by overdose deaths. I think we can do a lot of good that will make Spencer proud of us. I’m hoping I can call on you, Lilia, Roni and your amazing team for help on how best to get the word out about the foundation when we’re ready.

I’ll never have the words to tell you and Nick how much I appreciate the way you made us feel so welcome in your home and surrounded us with love and comfort at the most difficult time in our lives. Jack and I will always remember the weeks we spent at the White House with you all. Despite our devastation, there were moments of joy and magic mixed in that made all the difference for us at this difficult time.

One more thing… You said it wouldn’t matter to me now that you caught the people who did this, but it does matter. It matters greatly that they aren’t out there living their lives while I’m forced to piece mine back together. It matters. You matter. Thank you for making it your personal mission to get justice for Spencer, for me and for his beloved children. You are amazing all the time, but never more so than lately.

I love you and Nick and your kids so much. Thank you for everything.

Ang

Sam wiped away tears and wasn’t surprised to see Nick do the same.

“She sounds a little like her old self,” Sam said.

“I was thinking the same thing. The foundation is an amazing idea. We’ll make sure it’s a huge success when the time comes.”

“I’ll add it to my first lady platform and do everything I can to promote it. What a great way to use the money that was raised.”

“Does it help you to hear what she had to say about the case?”

“It does. It’s good to know that she’s comforted.” Sam folded up the letter and put it on her bedside table. “And it’s great to see her picking herself up and making some plans.”

“She’s still got a long road ahead, but she’s on the right path.”

“I think so, too.” Sam reached for him, and he came into her embrace, kissing her with the heat that flared between them so reliably, she’d come to count on it as much as she counted on oxygen and water.

“Thank you for being my strength through this nightmare,” she whispered against his lips. “And for being there for Ang and her kids, too.”

“All my life, I’ve wanted to be part of a family like the one I have now. It’s an honor to be with you and your sisters and the rest of our family through the good times and the bad times.”