After what seemed like an eternity, Cinnamon's life changed again, in the blink of an eye. The day started out like any other day at Piney Cross. She was awakened by the cries of Sophie, wanting her breakfast. As she rubbed her eyes, she looked down into the tiny crib at her fussy infant. Sophie had been growing strong every day. Now, at three months, she was eating more than ever. Picking up her baby, she untied her gown, freeing her breast for the hungry baby to eat. Sophie pawed at Cinnamon's breast as she ate her breakfast. She was suckling hungrily as her mother held her close.
Their tender moment was interrupted by the sudden opening of her cell door. Jay. Cinnamon was puzzled. Jay had always gone home by the time Sophie was ready for breakfast. She looked up at him, surprised, and smiled softly.
He walked to Cinnamon's bed, sitting down beside of her. Kissing her lips, then his baby's head.
"I've got some news, Cinnamon." He said softly, solemnly.
"Oh?" She replied, expecting the worst.
"You're due in court this morning."
"Court? Why?" She asked, confused.
"Your lawyer called this morning. Your file has been found, along with a time and dated security tape, showing you were on the labor and delivery floor, assisting with a delivery at the time of Mr. Langey's death. There's no way you could've neglected him or caused his death. The tape also shows Angela, leaving his room, and not returning for over four hours to check on him."
Tears began to stream down Cinnamon's cheeks as she held her baby. For the first time, she knew she was going to be free. She knew that now, she would be able to start her life with Jay and Sophie, outside of the confines of prison. As Sophie finished eating, she handed her to Jay. For the first time, in a long time, she was overwhelmed. Jay sat silently as he held his baby. He was at a loss for words.
"I'm going to be free," Cinnamon finally replied.
"Yes, you are." Jay said, solemnly.
"Aren't... aren't you happy?" She asked, sensing his apprehension.
"Yes, and no. I'm happy that you're going to be free, because you didn't deserve to be here in the first place, but now- you're free. Free to do as you wish. Free to walk out of here and never look back- at anything, including me."
For the first time, Jay had shown he was human. He had shown fear, apprehension, and vulnerability. He was scared. Scared of losing the only woman he had ever loved, and his precious baby. As long as Cinnamon was incarcerated, he could control her as he saw fit. He could dictate what she did, and had the power to make her submit whenever he chose. Now, she has the power to leave, and it's terrified him. For the first time in his life, Jay Walsh was truly terrified.
"Jay. I... I thought we... We were going to get married, and raise Sophie together. We, we're going to have a life together, aren't we?" Cinnamon asked, trembling. Afraid that now, Jay is having second thoughts about their life together.
As Sophie began to doze off on his chest, he turned to Cinnamon, smiling.
"Yes we are. Now, get ready. We have to leave in an hour and a half. My mother is coming to pick up Sophie. She'll have her, waiting outside of the courtroom." He said, kissing Cinnamon deeply.
She began to gather a few diapers and things to send with him.
"I love you, Cinnamon." Jay said, softly, sincerely.