Knockemout, #3
Things We Left Behind
by Lucy Score
Contents
Bonus Epilogue
Overview
Years after their Christmas Eve wedding, Lucian and Sloane host a boisterous, tradition-filled family gathering that showcases their expanded, blended family and newfound peace. Lucian reflects on healing and semiretirement as loved ones arrive. The night culminates in Sloane’s sentimental cherry blossom gift, reaffirming their enduring love and legacy.
Summary
On a Christmas Eve set about a decade later, Lucian narrates the controlled chaos of their annual holiday and anniversary dinner at home, now overflowing with family, friends, kids, pets, and traditions. He carries his first grandchild, Amara, and basks in the warmth of arrivals, even as he maintains his fearsome reputation outside the family.
Lucian recalls adopting Caden and Caitlin from foster care before welcoming their biological son, Simon, and later adding Juliana, rapidly expanding the family. Caden and Waylay, once longtime friends, fell in love in college and are now parents to Amara. Around the house, Knox romps with kids while Naomi calls after them; Nash, on duty, arrives with Lina as Duke Morgan appears dressed as Santa, sparking a rush of children.
More relatives pour in: Sloane’s mother, Karen, and Lucian’s mother arrive with their boyfriends, Max and José. Lucian eyes the men warily but acknowledges their devotion. He notes Stef’s flourishing spa at the former Red Dog Horse Farm and mentions Nolan’s and Lina’s promotions, Holly’s cheerful presence next door helping Sloane’s foundation, and the Outer Banks home that finally slows Sloane down for family beach vacations.
Lucian and Sloane steal a quiet moment on the porch, reflecting on how each year grows better. Sloane gives Lucian a framed cherry blossom from their tree, echoing the hope, love, and family they built. After a brief, emotional pause and a nod to Sloane’s late father—who would have loved their life—Lucian reaffirms his devotion: everything he is as a father and grandfather is for her.
Who Appears
- Lucian RollinsNarrator; semiretired, proud family patriarch, savoring Christmas chaos and moved by Sloane’s cherry blossom gift.
- SloaneWife and partner; anchors traditions, runs library and foundation, gifts Lucian a framed cherry blossom.
- CadenOldest son, adopted; now partnered with Waylay and father to baby Amara.
- WaylayCaden’s partner; arrives with their baby, Amara, warmly integrated into the extended family.
- AmaraLucian’s first grandchild; a cheerful baby who delights everyone.
- KnoxFamily friend; playfully wrangles children, jokes about middle age.
- NaomiManages holiday kitchen with others; keeps Knox and kids in check.
- NashArrives on duty with Lina; welcomes Duke Morgan as Santa for the kids.
- LinaBy Nash’s side; promoted at Lucian’s firm and part of family festivities.
- KarenSloane’s mother; happily dating Max, excited to meet more family arrivals.
- Lucian’s motherArrives confident and content, dating José; embraces the growing family.
- JoséPurple Heart veteran and amputee; devoted to Lucian’s mother, capably helps with luggage.
- MaxKaren’s charming salsa-dancing boyfriend; warmly received, still under Lucian’s watchful eye.
- StefHelps lead kitchen efforts; owns the Red Dog Horse Farm luxury spa hosting the next feast.
- JeremiahStef’s partner; cohosts the annual spa Christmas party.
- Duke MorganKnox and Nash’s father; arrives dressed as Santa, thrilling the children.
- Duke Morgan’s wifeArrives as Mrs. Claus, joining in the holiday tradition and gift-giving.
- Meow MeowElderly, judgmental cat observing festivities from behind the drapes.
- HollyCheerful neighbor working with Sloane’s foundation; part of the supportive community.