Epilogue
MINDY
One year later
My heart was hammering with excitement as I stood outside the sanctuary of the small church. Soft music drifted from inside. Family and friends—more than I ever thought possible—had packed into the pews.
My dad and mom, divorced ages ago, both sat in the front row, looking oddly proud. The twins were near the altar in miniature tuxes, absolutely giddy. The entire place was decked with wildflowers—gathered by Tessa and half the town, apparently—and the scent of pine and lilies floated in the air.
Taking a deep breath, I stepped into the aisle. My dress was simple but elegant, the white lace trailing gently behind me. Every head turned as I walked, but my focus zeroed in on the tall figure waiting at the end—Levi, my mountain man, the love of my life. He stood in a charcoal suit, looking both nervous and overjoyed.
My gaze caught Tessa’s across the aisle—she wore a sea-green dress, tears sparkling as she smiled at me. That little stinker, I thought fondly, a laugh catching in my throat. If not for her outrageous meddling, I wouldn’t be here. She’d become one of my closest friends, and moments from now, she’d be my sister-in-law.
When I finally reached Levi, my hands found his, trembling with emotion. He leaned in, eyes shining. “Ready?”
“Absolutely,” I whispered, tears of happiness already threatening.
The officiant began speaking, but I barely heard him, my entire being focused on the man before me. A wave of gratitude flooded me, for Hope Peak’s welcoming arms, for my sweet twins, for a second chance at love I never thought I’d find.
I sneaked a glance at the pews—practically the entire town of Hope Peak had shown up. Rachel from Skyline winked, and Beth from the Visitors Bureau clutched her tissues. Logan’s mom waved discreetly, Connor and Cody beaming from beside the altar. My old boss from Chicago was nowhere in sight.
As Levi repeated his vows, voice trembling with sincerity, tears trickled down my cheeks. Then it was my turn. I promised to love, cherish, and stand by him from this day forward. The hush in the church pressed close, and I felt the entire community’s warmth behind us.
When we sealed it with a kiss, applause and laughter erupted. Connor and Cody whooped, racing toward us. Levi hoisted them up, one in each arm, just for a moment. We laughed through tears, Tessa snapping pictures frantically, all while the organist played a triumphant note.
With Levi’s arm around my waist, we stepped into the sunlight, greeted by cheers. I closed my eyes, letting the moment soak in. One year ago, I arrived lost and uncertain. Now, I was part of a new family in a mountain town that had stolen my heart.
And as far as life journeys go, I couldn’t have scripted it better. I’d chosen the path less traveled, and I had no regrets.