Epilogue - Willow
EPILOGUE - WILLOW
[One year later]
I wake up to the gentle light filtering through the cabin windows, a sense of excitement and nervousness buzzing through me. Today marks a new chapter in my life - my first day as a ski instructor at the Snowy Summit ski school. It's been a year since that fateful ski trip that brought me here, and so much has changed.
As I get ready, I can't help but reflect on how I've settled into life in this charming mountain town. The cabin that once belonged solely to Reid is now our shared home, filled with touches of both our personalities. My favorite plush blanket drapes over the couch and Reid's collection of mountaineering books line the shelves.
I pull on my newly issued ski instructor jacket, the emblem of the ski school proudly displayed on the chest. It's a symbol of my new purpose: a way to share my love for the sport while helping others discover the joy of gliding down the mountain slopes.
As I head to the kitchen for a quick breakfast, I'm greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Reid stands at the counter, two steaming mugs in hand. He offers me one with a soft smile, his eyes filled with warmth.
"Ready for your big day?" he asks, pulling me into a gentle embrace.
I nod against his chest, drawing strength from his unwavering support and solid body. "As ready as I'll ever be," I reply.
We enjoy our coffee together, discussing the day ahead. I mention my plans to meet up with Blossom, the owner of the local flower shop, for lunch. Over the past year, she's become a dear friend, always ready with a kind word and a colorful bouquet to brighten my day.
As I gather my gear, I pause to take in the view from our cabin window. The majestic mountains stand tall, their snow-capped peaks glistening in the morning light. It's a sight that never fails to take my breath away, reminding me of the beauty and challenges that drew me to Hope Peak in the first place.
"Give me five minutes to get dressed, and I'll drive you to work," Reid says, wrapping his arm around me and kissing me gently. I'll never get used to this.
"That would be great, thanks," I say, reaching for my gear. “I’ll meet you at the truck."
The drive up to Snowy Summit is filled with easy conversation, as it always is these days, our hands intertwined over the center console. Reid looks handsome in his Mountain Angels uniform, the dark green fabric stretching across his broad shoulders and showing off his many muscles.
"So, you're leading a mountain rescue training today?" I ask, my fingers playing with the collar of his jacket.
Reid nods, his eyes flickering to mine with a hint of amusement. "Yeah, got to make sure the new recruits are ready for anything these mountains can throw at them."
I can't resist the opportunity to tease him a little. "And you're doing it all under the esteemed banner of the Mountain Angels," I say, my voice dripping with mock solemnity.
He groans, shaking his head. "I know, I know. The name's ridiculous. But hey, we do good work, even if we sound like a bunch of overgrown cherubs."
We both laugh, the sound filling the truck's cabin. It's moments like these that make me realize how far we've come, from the tense, guarded interactions of our first meeting to this easy, playful banter. We've both changed as people entirely for the better.
As Reid pulls into the Snowy Summit parking lot, I gather my things, ready to start my day. But before I can open the door, he reaches over and places a small box in my hand.
My heart skips a beat as I look up at him, my eyes wide with surprise. He smiles softly, his gaze filled with love and certainty.
"Willow," he begins, his voice steady, "a year ago, when I found you on that mountain, I had no idea how much my life was about to change. But every day since then, you've shown me what it means to live for the present. You've brought light and laughter into my world, and I can't imagine my life without you."
He takes a deep breath, his eyes never leaving mine. "I want this Valentine’s Day to be one you’ll remember for all the right reasons. Will you marry me?"
Tears spring to my eyes as I nod, my voice choked with emotion. "Yes," I whisper, "of course I'll marry you."
Reid slips the ring onto my finger, the delicate band glinting in the morning light. We share a kiss, pouring all our love and joy into the tender embrace.
As we pull apart, I rest my forehead against his, my heart so full it feels like it might burst. "To think," I murmur, "it all started with a broken leg and a grumpy rescuer."
Reid chuckles, his breath warm against my skin. "And now here we are, ready to take on the world together."
“I wish I didn’t have to go to work now,” I say, meaning every word.
“You have to. And I’ll take you out tonight to celebrate.”
Reid and I share one more tender kiss before I reluctantly pull away, knowing I can't be late for my first day. As I step out of the truck, I pause to admire the ring on my finger. It really is incredible.
"I'll see you tonight," I say, my voice filled with promise. "I can't wait to celebrate our engagement."
Reid grins, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I've got a few ideas in mind," he says, his voice low and suggestive.
I feel a shiver of anticipation run down my spine, but I force myself to focus on the day ahead. "Don't distract me now," I tease, "I've got young minds to mold and ski skills to impart."
Reid laughs, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. Go be the amazing instructor I know you are."
I blow him a kiss and start walking towards the ski school building, my heart full of love and gratitude for the man who's become my partner in every sense of the word.
As I reach the door, I turn back to see Reid still watching me, his expression soft and adoring. "I love you, Willow Jones," he calls out, his voice carrying across the crisp mountain air.
"And I love you, Reid Hart," I shout back. I've never loved anyone more.