Epilogue
The first hints of spring whispered through Mistletoe Hollow, softening the edges of winter with the promise of renewal. The snow was beginning to melt, revealing patches of grass that stretched toward the sun, and the scent of damp earth lingered in the crisp air. Emily Bradford stood in the community garden, her fingers brushing against the tender green shoots that had begun to push through the soil.
“It’s coming together,” Noah’s voice said from behind her.
She turned, smiling as he approached. He was carrying a bag of fertilizer in one hand and a pair of gardening gloves in the other. Despite his practical attire, there was something effortlessly handsome about the way he moved, the confidence in his stride.
“It really is,” Emily said, glancing around at the garden beds. “I can’t believe how much we’ve done in just a few months.”
“Well, you’ve done most of it,” Noah said, dropping the bag near one of the raised beds. “I’m just here for moral support and heavy lifting.”
Emily laughed, brushing her hands off on her jeans. “Don’t sell yourself short. You’ve done more than your fair share.”
He stepped closer, his hand finding the small of her back. “I’d do it all over again, if it meant standing here with you.”
Her heart fluttered, a sensation she still wasn’t quite used to, even after weeks of hearing his sweet words. “Careful, Mr. Winslow. You’re going to spoil me.”
“Good,” he said, his grin crooked and utterly disarming. “That’s the plan.”
The sound of laughter floated through the air, drawing their attention to the far side of the garden where Doug and Nancy were inspecting one of the flower beds. Nancy waved, her cheeks rosy from the cool breeze, and Doug leaned down to point something out in the soil, his expression one of focused delight.
“They’re adorable,” Emily said softly, leaning into Noah’s side.
“They’re something, all right,” he replied with a chuckle. “I think Doug’s already bought matching Bigfoot T-shirts for their trip.”
Emily shook her head, grinning. “I wouldn’t put it past him.”
The sound of approaching footsteps drew their attention again. Lila and Jack appeared, Lila holding a thermos of hot cocoa. She wore a soft, loose sweater, her hands wrapped protectively around stomach. The sweet small baby bump a clear and visible sign to one and all that they were expecting.
“Hot cocoa delivery!” Lila announced, holding up the thermos like a trophy.
“Perfect timing,” Emily said, reaching for one of the cups Jack was balancing on a tray. “You’re a lifesaver.”
“Anything to get me out of the house,” Lila said, rolling her eyes affectionately. “Jack’s been fussing over me like I’m made of glass. ”
“Someone has to,” Jack said, his tone defensive but playful. “You’re carrying precious cargo.”
Emily laughed, the warmth of the cocoa seeping into her hands. She looked around at the garden, at the people who had become her family, and felt a swell of contentment she hadn’t known was possible.
“You’re thinking again,” Noah teased, nudging her shoulder.
“I was just thinking how lucky I am,” she said, her voice soft. “This place, these people—you. I don’t know how I got so lucky.”
Noah leaned down, pressing a kiss to her temple. “Maybe it’s not luck. Maybe you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.”
Emily tilted her head to look at him, her smile widening. “You know, you’re getting really good at this whole romantic thing.”
He grinned. “I have a great teacher.”
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting the garden in a golden glow, Emily couldn’t help but agree. She was exactly where she should be—with Noah, with her friends, with her heart fully and finally at home .
The End of Oops! I Stole Your Heart , Mistletoe Hollow Series, Book 2