Epilogue - Ava
Six months later
My heart pounds as I drape my arms around his neck, the familiar scent of his cologne enveloping me. Finn pulls me close, his warmth seeping through the delicate lace of my wedding gown. His eyes, brimming with unshed tears, lock onto mine.
“I love you, Mrs. Miller-Jacks,” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion.
“I love you,” I breathe back, my vision blurs as the weight of this moment crashes over me.
Our lips meet, and the church erupts in applause, but it fades to a distant hum. All I can focus on is Finn, the man who’s been my past, present, and now, irrevocably, my future.
The bells peal, their joyous sound echoing through the small village church where my father has found peace.
I steal a glance at my dad, his face radiant with a happiness I haven’t seen since before we lost Mom. My heart swells, knowing that this day isn’t just about Finn and me. It’s about healing, forgiveness, and new beginnings for our entire family.
As Finn pulls away from our kiss, his fingers trace the bare skin of my lower back, sending shivers up my spine. Each touch is electric, a reminder of the passion that’s always simmered between us, even during our darkest times.
“I want another baby, Ava,” Finn murmurs, his deep voice resonating through me. “Our honeymoon is the perfect time. And Emmy, she’s the perfect age to be a big sister.”
I can’t help but laugh, the sound bubbling up from a well of pure joy. “You think you could handle another one like Emmy?”
His grin is blinding. We both turn to our daughter, a vision in her flower girl dress, clutching her bouquet and ever-present Teddy. I smile at the sight of her. She’s a perfect blend of Finn and me and seeing her so happy nearly brings me to my knees.
“One?” Finn says, his voice tender. “I could have hundreds like her. She’s absolutely perfect.”
Time seems to stand still as I watch Finn and Emmy exchange smiles. The love between them is palpable, healing the wounds of lost years. Tears spill freely down my cheeks now, but I don’t bother to wipe them away. They’re a testament to this journey we took. From the pain, the struggles, and now, finally, this indescribable joy.
This moment, right here, is everything I’ve ever longed for. It’s the family I dreamed of, the love I thought I’d lost, the happiness I never dared hope for again. As I look at Finn, I see not just my husband, but my best friend, my lover, the father of my child, and hopefully, children.
It’s always been him. Through every twist and turn, every heartache, and triumph, it’s always been Finn. And now, surrounded by the love of our family and friends, we’re embarking on the rest of our lives together.
My heart feels fit to burst as I realize this isn’t just our happily ever after—it’s a beautiful new beginning.
The End.