Epilogue 2
TWELVE YEARS LATER
“I don’t know if I can do this,” Maya blurts, her eyes wide with panic.
Cardboard boxes litter the cramped dorm room floor as Maya collapses onto her freshly made bed.
Phoenix settles beside her, the mattress dipping under his weight. “Breathe, kiddo. What’s going through that head of yours?”
Maya releases a long exhale. “I’m scared shitless, if I’m being honest.” She peeks up from beneath her lashes. “What if I don’t fit in? What if I struggle academically?”
Phoenix’s expression softens, recognizing the resurfacing of Maya’s deep-rooted insecurities. I’ve witnessed her struggle with confidence despite being whip-smart and tenacious.
“You know that’s not true,” he says gently. “When have you ever backed down from a challenge?”
Crossing the room, I settle beside them on the bed. I take Maya’s hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “Sweets, it’s okay to be scared about this big transition. I went through it too when I started college.”
Phoenix nods. “Your mom’s right. Having the crap scared out of you means you’re human.” His lopsided grin spreads. “Daredevils like me are the weird ones.”
Maya laughs at his teasing, some of the tension leaving her shoulders. Leave it to Phoenix to lighten the mood.
“Those butterflies are natural,” I tell her. “But you’ve got this fire inside you, this well of courage that’ll guide you through.”
“You’re stronger than you know. With your brains and that stubborn streak?” He chuckles. “College won’t stand a chance.”
“I wish my dad was as confident.” Maya’s voice grows smaller. “He’s so hyped about his new family these days.”
“That jackass doesn’t know what he’s missing.” Phoenix’s eyes grow misty as he pulls Maya close again. “I’m so damn proud of you. No matter what, you’ll always have me in your corner.”
Maya leans back, studying Phoenix’s face with love and amusement. “I suppose that makes me the favorite now that I’m one of four daughters,” she teases.
Phoenix smiles and ruffles her hair affectionately. “You know every kid is different, kiddo. But you all hold a special place in my heart.” His eyes shine with pride and adoration. “But you’ll always be the tough-as-nails little girl who stole my heart from day one.”
As I watch their exchange, my heart swells with pride. Phoenix’s paternal bond with Maya blossomed organically over the years.
I’m in awe of how far he’s come—from the gruff, solitary biker to the nurturing father figure he is today.
“And remember, it’s not all about academic success. College is about personal growth too,” Phoenix continues. “It’s about discovering who you are—your passions, interests, and values. It’s a chance to discover what lights you up.”
Maya bites her lip, contemplating his words. “I guess you’re right, Dad.”
“I know I am,” Phoenix winks. “Always remember, no matter what happens, I’m only a phone call away.”
“Okay, I can do this.” Maya throws her arms around Phoenix. “Thank you, Dad. For everything.”
Phoenix hugs her back. “No need to thank me. It’s an honor being your dad.”
Tears prick my eyes. “I almost forgot.”
Maya and Phoenix turn toward me. I retrieve a framed photograph from the remaining box and hold it up for them to see.
It captures a sun-drenched memory from one of our beach vacations—Maya beaming brightly, Phoenix and I with our arms wrapped around her in a loving embrace.
I hang the portrait as a reminder that no matter how far Maya ventures, she will always have a home to return to.
Maya traces the figures in the portrait. “Thanks, you two. I don’t know what I’d do without your constant cheerleading.”
Phoenix pulls Maya into a fierce hug. “That’s our job, kiddo.”
I survey the room with a satisfied nod. Maya’s belongings are neatly arranged, each item reflecting her personality and taste.
Maya gazes at the photograph one last time before turning to us with tears in her eyes. “You guys are the best parents I could ever ask for. I love you both so much.”
With one last round of hugs and well wishes, Phoenix and I make our way toward the door. I turn back with a warm smile. “You’ve got this, Maya.”
Maya laughs, giving a confident nod. “Your little girl is all grown up.”
As the door closes, Phoenix drapes his arm around me, pulling me close. “She’s going to set this place on fire, right?”
I lean my head against his shoulder. “That’s for damn sure. Although I feel sorry for any young man who tries dating her—he’ll have to go through you first.”
“You know it, babe.” Phoenix lets out a low chuckle. “No one’s good enough for her, if you ask me.”
Shaking my head, I cup his jaw, my fingers tracing the rough stubble. “You’re such a sap.”
“Only for my girls,” he rumbles, dipping his head to capture my lips in a lingering kiss.
I’m breathless and grinning like a love-struck teenager when we break apart.
Phoenix steps back, his eyes sparkling. “You always know how to make me feel like the luckiest man in the world.”
“And you always make me feel loved and cherished,” I reply softly, my heart fluttering at the sincerity in his gaze.
Phoenix's smile lights up his face and fills me with joy.
“I’ll always be here for you, no matter what,” he promises, wrapping me in a warm embrace.
As the silence stretches between us, I study Phoenix’s face, seeing the love in his eyes and feeling it mirrored in my heart. I nestle closer, resting my head on his chest.
The steady rhythm of his heart comforts me. Within the protective circle of his embrace, my soul finds solace.
“I love you,” I murmur.
Phoenix’s calloused hand tenderly cradles my cheek. “And I, you. Always and forever.”
As we walk down the corridor, hand in hand, we’re excited about our family’s new chapter. As Maya moves toward independence, adjustments and growing pains will inevitably occur. But every ending is a new beginning.
I can’t wait to embrace this new phase with Phoenix. The future holds endless possibilities, and I’m ready to seize them all with the love of my life beside me.
Dear Reader,
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, for reading Addicted to the Rebel.
My goal with writing is to lift your spirits and make you smile. I hope you enjoyed Phoenix and Nova’s story.