Epilogue
CAMI
“Time to clean up!” I tell the kids, clapping my hands twice to get their attention.
It’s another Thursday night at Hope Mountain Community Center, only instead of volunteering, I’m the Children’s Activities Coordinator. Kelsey offered me the position shortly after everything that happened at the protest.
Top Spot backed down and virtually disappeared, just like the cops said they would. Gabby heard some news from an old friend that the entire company was shut down due to a federal investigation by the IRS. Apparently, there were more than a few shady dealings going on.
All the donations that came in that day and the days that followed were enough to earn us some good grace with the bank. They set up a payment plan and extended the loan, which was paid off shortly after.
Ten years later, and I’m glad to have all of that behind me. I couldn’t imagine life being more fulfilling than it is in this moment.
“Mommy! Can I spend the night at Kristy’s house?” Samantha, our five year old asks. Both of our kids come and help me on Thursdays for Kids Korner, which fills my heart with such pride. They love talking to the other kids and making them feel right at home.
“It’s a school night,” I remind her. “But you two can hang out tomorrow, how does that sound?”
My daughter sighs dramatically, but agrees. She has Hayden’s dark hair and blue eyes, though she definitely inherited my sass.
“Mom,” Sylvia, our nine-year-old, calls out. “I’m done picking up the markers and crayons. Can I go find Dad?”
“No need, I’m right here, ladies.” Hayden steps inside the empty room aside from our family. He loops his arms around my waist and presses a kiss to my forehead as he draws me in for a hug.
“How was group tonight?” I ask. “You know, I think it’s amazing that you’re leading it once a month. I’m so proud of everything you’ve accomplished.”
“That’s my main goal in life,” he replies, giving me a heartwarming smile. “To make you proud.”
“What about me?” Samantha interrupts. Hayden grins at me, and I laugh at our daughter.
“And me? Our opinions matter, too!”
“Of course, my sweet girls,” Hayden says. He kneels down and hugs our daughters. He’s such a softie when it comes to them, which only makes me love him more. “Are you proud of your dad?”
Samantha nods right away and wraps her arms around his neck. He stands with her in his arms, then holds out his hand for Sylvia to take.
“And what about you, Princess Sylvia?”
“Hmm…” She taps her chin adorably, grinning up at her father. “I could be persuaded with some ice cream.”
I laugh at her shamelessness, knowing Hayden is going to cave. He can’t say no to any of his girls, myself included.
“A family outing for ice cream sounds like the perfect end to the day,” I tell them.
The girls squeal while Hayden smiles at me. “A date with my girls.” He pulls me into his side with his free arm, keeping Samantha steady in his other arm. “Lucky me.”
I take Sylvia’s hand in mine, and we walk outside with hearts full of gratitude.
This place is so special, not just the community center, but the town of Hope Mountain. It’s brought so many people together, including Sadie, Gabby, Lily, and me, as well as our amazing husbands. If this isn’t a happily ever after, I don’t know what is.
THE END