Epilogue
Jace looks up at me, tear tracks staining his soft cheeks. “But I need you every day.”
Kneeling down, we’re eye level in the foyer. “I know, buddy. I need to see you, too. That’s why Hunter got us iPads. We can FaceTime and talk every night.”
He shakes his head, voice wobbling. “It’s not the same.”
Behind me, Hunter squeezes my shoulder, giving support.
I sigh. “It’s not, you’re right. But I’m only an hour away. I’ll come visit you all the time.”
“And you can come visit us, too.” Hunter crouches down, part of our circle. “Remember what you helped me pick out for Aunt Nattie so she doesn’t get too sad without you?”
Jace nods, and I glance at Hunter. Like I want for anything. I’m spoiled enough as it is.
“Can you go get that present for her?” he asks, and Jace runs off towards the bedrooms.
“More gifts? You’ve already bought me a car and invited me to move in with you. What more could I need?”
Standing, he pulls me up and brushes a kiss over my lips. “It’s not always about need.”
I kiss him back, wrapping my arms around his neck. He’s warm and solid against me, comforting and steady.
Before I get too distracted, he pulls away and stares into my eyes.“Sometimes I still can’t believe this is happening. Thanks for saying yes. I’m glad I get to have this adventure with you.”
I can’t quite believe it, either. After his dad cut him off, Hunter found scholarships and loans so he could finish his degree. He couldn’t get back on the ice for the Frozen Four, but the Blackhawks GM sought him out after the Griffins lost the NCAA hockey tournament. They did extensive X-rays and scans on his leg. It looks strong and healthy, and they decided his past performance says enough to warrant taking a chance on him. They signed him. He’s going to start out playing for The Wolves, their minor-league team, and have a shot at a professional hockey career.
It was so unexpected; we were both floored. I was equally surprised when he asked me to move up to Chicago with him. He still teases me because I said no at first.
But Sarah and Mom helped convince me it was okay to say yes. Sarah promised she would help more at home and get a second job if needed. My mom told me to follow my heart and put myself first.
So I did, and found an entry-level accounting job based out of Chicago. Hadley surprised me by getting a sponsor for my blog, and it’s taken off in popularity. Maybe someday it will be my full-time gig, although I’m excited to try my hand at corporate accounting first. It’s okay if fashion is only a hobby. No matter what, I will continue to make time for it because it’s fun.
Of course, I felt better about my choice to move out after my dad had successful kidney transplant surgery. He’s fully recovered and back to work full time. My mom only needs one job, and Sarah’s dream of culinary classes is within reach.
But I’m going to miss Jace more than I can verbalize. He’s been by my side constantly for the last five years. His tear-streaked face makes me want to unpack every bag and stay here forever.
He’s smiling as he scampers back, holding a stuffed animal. Hunter rubs circles on my shoulder blades, and—the furry bundle Jace clutches meows.
I startle and do a double take. “What do you have there, buddy?”
Hunter steps towards him and takes the little ball of fuzz out of his arms and hands it to me. My heart melts when I see her face.
It’s a tiny kitten, a calico. She’s the softest thing I’ve ever touched, and she’s warm and purring as I cuddle her close to my chest.
“I adopted her from the cat cafe.” Hunter’s cheeks turn pink. “Is it okay?”
“Okay?” I echo. He’s given me everything—love, support, commitment, and now a furry kitty to make me smile. I swallow around the lump in my throat. “It’s better than okay. In fact, I think this is the best I’ve ever been.”
I kiss him again, the kitten nestled between us. A little family. Then I hear giggles.
When I pull back, Mom, Dad, and Sarah are also in the crowded entryway. My mom has her phone out, snapping pictures.
“Were you in on this surprise?” I ask, and their wide grins give them away. “Well, thank you. I’ve always wanted a cat.”
“And Hunter gave you one.” My mom steps forward, wrapping me in her arms and whispering in my ear. “I’m so excited for you, baby. We’ll come visit soon.”
Because my dad doesn’t have to do dialysis now, he can travel more. Hunter and I are living outside the city, close to the train station. We can easily take it in for work, and we’re only an hour drive from my family. I cried when he suggested that—just one of the many things I love about him.
I blink back tears now as I embrace Sarah and my dad, then give Jace one more hug, too. He clings to my neck like a monkey before his mom tickles him, and he loosens his hold.
“Tell you what.” I boop his nose. “I’ll FaceTime you tonight so you can see our apartment, and you can name the kitten. Think of something perfect for her and let me know when we talk later.”
His face lights up and nods. “I’ll come up with the best name!”
“I know you will, buddy.”
Hunter gets his own hugs, then grabs my hand. “Are you ready?”
Love shines out of his eyes, and my heart explodes a little more. I’m not sure what the future has in store, but the world is full of possibilities. We’ll face it together.
“Yes.” I squeeze his fingers and smile. “I have everything I need.”
The End