Epilogue Always and Forever
Celeste Bellerose-Malone
New York City—two Years Later
The gala was a glittering affair—an event dripping with opulence and prestige that only the Bellerose name could command.
The ballroom at The Plaza gleamed under the glow of crystal chandeliers, every corner adorned with sprawling floral arrangements and sleek sculptures commissioned just for the occasion.
Fashion elite, business moguls, and media powerhouses mingled among the crowd, their eyes darting between the art displays and the main attraction: Bellerose International’s newest collection, a showcase redefining elegance for the modern woman.
But tonight wasn’t just about fashion. It was about celebrating the empire Celeste had rebuilt from the ashes of betrayal. And the man who had been by her side every step of the way.
She stood at the center of the room, a vision of grace and power. Her silver gown hugged her body, the intricate beadwork shimmering like liquid moonlight.
“Speech!” someone called out from the crowd, followed by scattered applause and expectant gazes.
Celeste raised her glass, the diamond wedding ring on her finger catching the light.
“Thank you all for being here tonight. It’s not just about celebrating Bellerose’s triumphs.
It’s about resilience. About standing back up when life tries its darndest to knock you down.
And about never compromising on the things that matter most.”
Her gaze shifted, locking onto Nick’s. His dark suit tailored to perfection, his presence commanding even among the city’s most powerful. But it was the way he looked at her that stole her breath—like she was the only person in the room.
“And for me,” Celeste continued, her voice softening, “that’s family. Because at the end of the day, no empire is worth building if you don’t have the right person to share it with.”
The crowd burst into applause, but it was Nick’s smile that held her attention. That smile that said he’d tear down the world if it meant keeping her safe.
As the clinking of glasses and conversation filled the room, Nick made his way toward her. Sabre padded by his side, sleek and alert, his collar adorned with a silver tag engraved with ‘Protector’.
“You sure know how to work a crowd, Mrs. Bellerose-Malone,” Nick murmured, his deep voice brushing over her skin like a caress.
She rolled her eyes playfully. “You make it sound like I was working. That was all passion.”
Nick’s hand found her waist, pulling her close. “Passion’s never been a problem with you, princess.”
“Or with you.” Her fingers traced the lapel of his jacket, her touch gentle but possessive. “You make everything feel effortless.”
“I’ve got something to show you.” His eyes glinted with a secret only she was meant to share.
“Another surprise?” Celeste arched a brow, her curiosity piqued. “You’re spoiling me, Malone.”
“And I’m just getting started.” He took her hand, threading their fingers together as he led her through the throngs of guests, Sabre padding loyally at their heels.
He guided her toward the terrace, the crisp night air wrapping around them as they stepped out into the moonlit serenity. Beyond the city’s twinkling skyline, everything felt peaceful.
“What’s this about?” she asked, her eyes dancing with curiosity.
Nick reached into his pocket and pulled out a sleek, folded document. “Graham and I finally made it official. The private security company. It’s up and running. Fully staffed and funded. And here’s the best part…” He paused, letting the anticipation build.
Celeste’s lips twitched with amusement. “Are you trying to make me beg, Malone?”
“Maybe.” His smirk was pure, unfiltered arrogance. “But since I can’t wait another second to tell you… I named it after you.”
She blinked. “What?”
“Bellerose Security.” His gaze held hers, the sincerity of his words wrapping around her heart. “Because you’ve been my passion since day one. And I plan on protecting you for the rest of my life.”
A choked laugh bubbled past her lips. “Nick, I don’t even know what to say.”
“Just say you’re happy. That’s all I need.”
Her smile was radiant, her fingers brushing his jaw with a tenderness that spoke of a million unspoken promises. “I’m happy. I’m more than happy. And so damn proud of you.”
Nick’s hand slid down her back, his touch both possessive and reassuring. “You made me this way, Celeste. You showed me there’s more to life than just fighting ghosts.”
Their lips met, slow and sweet. A kiss of gratitude. Of devotion. Of something too deep to name.
“Mommy?” The small voice came from the doorway, followed by the patter of tiny feet.
Celeste looked over, her eyes softening as their daughter toddled into view. The little girl’s curls bounced with each determined step, her dress a miniature replica of her mother’s.
“There you are, August.” Celeste bent down to scoop her up, pressing a kiss to her chubby cheek. She was named in memory of Celeste’s late father. August Bellerose.
“Doggy!” the girl squealed, reaching for Sabre, who obediently sat at her feet, his tail thumping with affection.
Nick chuckled. “Looks like someone’s a Sabre fan.”
“Not surprising. He’s practically her shadow.” Celeste cradled their daughter against her hip, her gaze lifting to Nick’s. “Just like her father.”
Nick’s eyes softened. “And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
They stood there, the three of them bathed in the city’s glow, their world whole and complete.
“What now, Nick?” Celeste asked, her voice a whisper of contentment.
“Now?” He brushed a strand of hair from her face. “Now we live. We build. We love. And nothing’s ever gonna tear us apart.”
Celeste’s smile was pure bliss. “Promise?”
“Always and forever,” Nick vowed, his voice a dark, possessive rumble.
“That’s a good thing. Because you’re going to be a daddy… again!”
Nick turned to catch Celeste’s expression. “Are you kidding me?”
“Nope.”
Nick yelled from the terrace for all of New York City to here.
“I’m going to be a dad again!”
Finally, there were no threats, no shadows.
Only the life they had fought so hard to claim.
All was right with their world.
THE END.