Epilogue (Everett)

One year later.

“Merry Christmas, baby.” With a smile on my face, I placed a large box in front of our 3-month-old baby. The little girl looked at the colorful wrapping paper, eyes wide with wonder.

Behind her, Tanya held her up, a gleam in her eyes. “Go on, open it.” She prompted even though she was still too young to understand.

Nonetheless, intrigued by the large object, she leaned forward, grabbing for it. Her sharp fingernails tore a small corner of it which I helped her undo. She giggled at the ripping nose, hands clapping together with glee.

When I had thought up my contract idea, I initially thought I wanted a boy. He would be my heir, and I’d be the father he always wanted. But, now that Lilly was in my life, I knew I didn’t want it any other way. She was perfect, and I wouldn’t give her up for the world.

“Wow! Lilly! Look! It’s a new toy!” Tanya exclaimed. “You should thank daddy with a great big sloppy kiss.” With that, she picked up our baby and placed her in my arms.

I cradled our tiny child into my chest, smiling proudly. I couldn’t believe we had brought such a beautiful little girl into the world. Gently, I ran a hand through her soft curly hair before kissing the top of her head.

She giggled, looking up at me with her mother’s bright green eyes. I had no doubt that when she became a teenager, I’d have my hands full trying to keep the boys away. But, until then, I was determined to enjoy our time as a nice, happy family.

“Now, time for mommy’s present.”

“Oh, you didn’t have to get me anything. You’re enough for me.” She whispered, kissing my cheek.

“Of course I did. You’re my girlfriend. What boyfriend would I be if I neglected you on Christmas? Besides, it’s our one year anniversary today.”

She blushed, cheeks painted with a rosy pink. God, she was adorable.

“Everett…”

Ignoring her, I reached into my pocket, pulling out a small red box. With Lilly still in my arms, I got down on one knee. 

As soon as Tanya saw the ring, tears sprang to her eyes, a look of shock on her face.

“Tanya, you’ve been nothing but good to me this past year. You’ve made me the luckiest and happiest man in the world. Every day, I count my blessings because I’m allowed to call you mine. No other woman has ever captured my heart in the same way you have. I know, no matter what, you will always stay by my side. You’ll be my faithful friend, companion… and now, wife.” I held up the ring, waiting for her answer.

As I did so, Lilly grabbed for it, snatching it out of my hand, instinctually trying to put it into her mouth.

“Lilly! No!” Tanya sprang forward, taking the choking hazard away from our daughter.

I frowned a little, thinking the moment was ruined, but all of a sudden, Tanya wrapped her arms around my neck, burrowing her head into my shoulder. I crept my free arm around her waist, holding her close. I was still unsure of her answer.

Would she accept?

Finally, she pulled away and smiled. “Yes…” She whispered.

“Yes?” I asked.

She nodded. “Yes. A thousand – no, a million – times yes. I love you, Everett, and I would be honored to be your wife.”

A smile spread across my face, pure happiness radiating through my heart to every part of my body. I jumped to my feet, bringing her with me, spinning us around until we fell on the couch.

Tanya laughed, leaning down to kiss me, hands cupping my face, her lips speaking the words she could not utter in her emotional state.

I just held her even tighter, feeling like I never wanted to let her go.

Beside us, little Lilly played with her mommy’s hair, a toothy smile on her face.

Outside, the snow was falling coating the world in white. In the distance was the sound of carolers being forth Christmas cheer. And, if one listened carefully, just out of earshot, maybe, just maybe, you’d hear the sound of sleigh bells ringing and hoofs beating against the nighttime sky.

I looked at Lilly, knowing she was going to grow up in a happy household, want of nothing.

I looked at my fiancé knowing that I would grow old with this woman.

Life was perfect.