I Still Believe in Fairy Tales

Disclaimer: I own nothing but the idea.

Summary: Natalie says good-bye to John…

Author's Note: This is the kind of story that comes when you stay up until 4:00 AM and then decide to write. It came out a lot longer on you enjoy it, and please review!

When I first met John McBain I was not the same woman I am today. You see, I still believed that fairy tales could come true. Actually, I thought my life was a fairy tale. I was finally with my true family, about to marry the man of my dreams… Who could ask for more?

Then you came into my life and turned my perfect world into a nightmare. So many nights I would—and sometimes still do—wake up screaming Cristian's name and then the awful truth would hit me again. Oh, how I hated you! I truly believe that part of me will never forgive you for your role in Cris's death, but now I realize that maybe that's okay.

You see, I realized something in the well that last day. I really love you, McBain, and that scares the hell out of me. I know you don't love me, you're just looking for someone to protect. Well, I can't be that person anymore John. I have to start protecting myself again or I'll never be anything but another victim.

I'm terrified to be alone, but I need this time to get over you. My love for you is based on my desire and need to be protected, so I know that it cannot last. But who knows? Maybe this whole experience with you and the serial killers who seem to like making me their target has done me some good. I know now that all I need to get out of a bad situation is myself, and that's the best that I could have ever hoped for.

I wish you and Evangeline all the luck and happiness in the world. I know you may not believe that, but I do. I hate admitting this, but I think you two have got it. Don't throw it away by being afraid, McBain. Don't you dare! I hope that you have a wonderful life.

Oh, and John? I still believe in fairy tales.

FIN