Epilogue
THE BEGINNING
‘All good, kiddo?’ Big Sean grins at me.
‘Couldn’t be better!’ I reply, smiling back.
The Irish countryside is beautiful this time of year: the hills are lush and green, and the still lakes reflect their curves like a mirror.
It’s in this magical setting that I’m about to become James’ wife, and the joy we both feel is almost too strong to contain.
It’s as if the air is charged with the promise of a fairy-tale ending, of new beginnings and endless possibilities.
I stand beneath the arched flowers, my arm looped with Big Sean’s, ready to take our place in front of all the family and friends who’ve gathered for this momentous occasion.
There’s an overwhelming feeling of contentment as I gaze upon their happy faces here to witness our very special day, our wedding by the lake.
As the sun begins to set, its golden rays cast a dreamy hue over our outdoor wedding, right here at The Lake House.
The tables are adorned with white linens, floral centrepieces of rust and amber blooms, and clusters of flickering candles.
As I wave to my loved ones, my gaze falls upon my bridesmaid Kayla.
My beaming best girl stands tall and proud.
The vintage lilac dress that hugs her frame was a gift from Jacinta’s, of course, complementing our lavender and baby’s breath bouquets perfectly.
Fintan sits in a nearby chair, with Kayla’s beautiful little Rosa nestled in his arms – her tiny fists balled up tight, her body snugly swaddled in dainty blankets.
Rory and Lenka stand nearby, both beaming as they hold hands, an office romance that no one saw coming but makes perfect sense.
And now having visited Innisfree, she understands exactly how I was inspired to illustrate our gorgeous Forest Fables new editions.
We’ve won awards, we’ve broken records, we’re a global sensation – but, most importantly, we’ve reached millions of new readers, each one falling in love with the idea that maybe there are worlds within worlds, and, given the chance, they can be beautiful again.
Just like now. Just like this.
A single tear escapes down my cheek as I contemplate the grandeur of life and all its beauty – the immense joys and sorrows, the countless journeys, the infinite moments of togetherness, the new beginnings.
Everyone is looking for new beginnings. Big Sean sold The Fox to move back home to Ireland. Stephen is in recovery, and the McDonaghs made the leap of faith to head to Chicago to be with Ciaran.
Grace and Jose are making a name for themselves with the guest house, offering traditional Irish music, tours and delicious home-made meals. And you can bring your pets, which Oscar is not overly pleased about.
Moya looks better than ever, her black hair gently blowing in the wind as she sings an exquisite ballad in her native Gaelic.
She and Dom spend nights together walking the dogs around the lake, sharing laughs and, recently, holding hands.
Her voice resonates harmoniously through the air, like a sign of triumph from all we’ve overcome together, strengthening our friendship and love.
Jacinta’s online business empire is thriving, and she and Fintan have affectionately taken Kayla and Rosa under their wing since she decided to move here to Innisfree too.
The Mooneys are Rosa’s godparents. And have become ‘honorary’ parents to Kayla too.
Fintan likes to say that ‘bonds are better than blood’.
As I walk forward, I’m reminded of the many friendships I’ve come to cherish along the way. Love goes beyond a connection between two people; we’re all simply pieces of a puzzle, held together by the fragile thread of love in its various forms.
The background music carries us away with its gentle melody as I walk towards my beloved. After this long journey, the step we’re about to take feels both life-changing and like coming home all at once.
James looks dashing in his stylish suit, his ocean-blue eyes shimmering with love and determination.
I approach him, dressed in a delicate lace gown, our hands outstretched to touch just the tips of each other’s fingers.
The air around us stirs, and a gentle breeze lifts my skirt as if it wants to join in this special moment.
The verdant fields of grass and wildflowers whisper their blessings for us.
This dreamlike moment almost seems too real to be true.
We persevered for our chance at joy. And it was worth it a million times over. Now, we stand with confidence and hope brimming in our hearts. When I gaze into James’ eyes, I can see the tears that are reflected in mine. We finally made it and now we start a new life, side by side.
Our palms come together as James pulls me close; I’m overwhelmed by his adoration and devotion. It feels like ages since we set off on this unpredictable path that brought us to this moment – this beautiful, blissful moment where everything is possible.
As we stand here, the sun begins to set and the sky turns a beautiful blend of orange and pink.
It feels like the universe itself is putting on a show to celebrate all we’ve got here.
We exchange our vows, promising to love and cherish each other for the rest of our lives.
As we kiss, the world around us fades away, leaving only the two of us and the warmth of each other’s embrace.
The reception is a blur of dancing, laughter and love.
We eat, drink and toast to our new life together, to have and to hold here in Innisfree.
This has also been a journey to discover my mother, my father and the past. I’m now certain of who I am, where I’m from and how I can be true to myself in life.
Each morning, evening and day that I spend in The Lake House 2.
0 brings forth those same views that my parents cherished, the same soil they trod upon and the same glittering lake water that lapped against their skin.
Knowing they lived here and loved here makes me feel closer to them than ever.
As I hold James’ hand tight on our first night as husband and wife, I can’t help but feel grateful for this chance together to build even more special memories under starry skies.
Our life has come full circle – from strangers unsure of what tomorrow would bring to two people unafraid to take risks together – and no matter where life takes us next, we’re here for it.
Here for it all. Together is a beautiful place to be.
* * *
If you enjoyed reading Daisy’s story, then you’ll love Colleen Coleman’s heartfelt romcom, Don’t Stop Me Now.
Get it here or keep reading for an exclusive extract!