Epilogue
HAZEL
* Three Years Later *
J ust as my video call is wrapping up, I hear the familiar discreet tap at the office door to let me know dinner is ready whenever I am.
I say goodbye to my coworkers, glad to be working with such terrific people. Ever since I’ve been made a full member of the podcast team, I’m pretty much in charge of content now, which is extra exciting since we’re up for a handful of awards this year. There’s even been some talk of me recording a few intros and bumpers.
I reach my seat at the dining room table just as Axton sets down our plates, sitting close beside me. I love that my huge mountain man has become quite domestic as we care for each other, but never lost that spark of wildness in his eyes.
Even though right now, his eyes won’t quite meet mine.
“What’s wrong?” I ask.
“You know…I’ve never told you that I check up on Fern Crawford from time to time.”
My jaw drops. “You’re joking.”
“Nope. He seemed so infatuated with you that I just felt I should keep an eye on him.” He shrugs. “Not sure if you care, but he, ah, got married yesterday.”
“Oh. Well, good for him.” My hand runs along my husband’s shoulder, allowing my ring to sparkle in the candlelight. “I hope he’s very happy, and very far away.”
“That’s what I thought you’d say. Funny, she looks a bit like you. Not nearly as gorgeous, of course, but kind of the same coloring. Similar eyes.”
“Speaking of eyes…” My hand skims down his broad back. “Do you think our baby will get my blue or your brown ones?”
“No idea. I’m looking forward to the surprise.” He cups my face, and his thumb strokes my cheek. “Just like you were a hell of a surprise in my bed that night.” He smiles as I laugh.
“In your secret bad weather cabin.”
He nuzzles under my ear. “Best Valentine week ever coming up.”
“Unless I go into labor.”
His fingers tighten slightly. “Don’t even joke about that. I want another Valentine’s Day alone with my sweet, gorgeous wife before we have company.”
“I’m pretty sure I have at least another week or two. Baby hasn’t dropped yet.”
He glares comically at my face, then my rounded belly. “Good. Don’t make me growl at the two of you.”
His grunted chuckle joins my giggles, creating a blended sound we’ve made together thousands of times already. No matter if they turn out mellow or surly, sweet or salty, we’re going to love this child to the edge of the mountain and back.
Just like we’re going to love each other. Forever.