Epilogue

Andrew and Marianne were both happy and tired after the wedding day, which had flown by in a blur of emotion and celebration. It was almost time for the newlyweds to head out on their honeymoon as the sun started to dip below the horizon.

The staff was frantically packing the rest of their belongings onto the waiting carriage at the estate's huge front door. Tabitha and Lady Hillsfolk lingered close by, their faces displaying a mix of worry and enthusiasm.

"Are you sure you brought enough warm clothes, Andrew?" Lady Hillsfolk fretted, examining the contents of one of the bags with fluttering hands. "This time of year, the weather can be unpredictable."

Andrew laughed, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Yes, I have all I need packed. Furthermore, Marianne and I can definitely handle it even if I forget something."

Marianne was standing next to him, her arm entwined with his. She gave Lady Hillsfolk a kind smile. "Mother, don't worry. We shall be all right. We are excited to spend time with each other."

Tabitha stood directly in front of the pair while holding her cane. "You two look out for one another. Recall that this is an opportunity to strengthen your relationship rather than merely have a vacation."

With a nod, Andrew met her eyes. "Yes, we will. I am very grateful for what you have done."

Tabitha's hard look gave way to a mild grin. "When you get back, I hope to hear everything. Go ahead and have fun now."

With a contagious youthful vigor, Peggy leaped up. "You must send letters to us while you are abroad! I'm interested in learning about all of your travels!"

With a grin, Marianne reached down to give her younger sister a hug. "Peggy, we will write to you. I swear."

With excitement flickering in their eyes, Rose and Ruth joined the group.

Rose told them, "We'll take care of everything here. You two just concentrate on having fun while you're together."

Ruth gave a nod of approval. "Yes, there's nothing to worry about. Everything will be under control."

Harriet beamed. "Enjoy this moment. You two deserve it. And never forget that you can always count on us."

A wave of gratitude for his family washed over Andrew. To him, their support meant the world. He gave Marianne's hand a light squeeze. "Shall we?"

Marianne nodded, happiness gleaming in her eyes. "All right, let's head out."

Lady Hillsfolk moved forward. "I bless you both, Andrew and Marianne. Look out for one another and create wonderful memories."

After exchanging parting embraces and goodbyes, Andrew and Marianne got inside the carriage. With their hands still clasped, they took their comfortable seats as the driver shut the door behind them.

As the carriage began to move, Lady Hillsfolk and Tabitha waited at the entryway and waved them off.

As their loved ones faded into the distance, Marianne experienced a range of feelings, from excitement about the future to a little sense of regret at having to say goodbye, even if it was only temporary.

Noticing her look, Andrew gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. "How are you doing?"

Marianne turned to face him and grinned back at him. "At this moment, I'm ecstatic. and perhaps a bit overwhelmed."

Andrew kissed her gently on the forehead. "I understand. We have both had a hectic day. However, this is our time for the moment. No requirements or anticipations. Just me and you."

She nodded, resting her head on his shoulder. "Andrew, I'm quite glad we took this on. That we came together makes me very delighted."

He wrapped his arm around her, holding her close. "Yes, I agree. I'm delighted to be with you as well."

As they traveled to their honeymoon destination, they enjoyed the easy conversation and quiet moments. They enjoyed each other's company and the peace of their surroundings as they shared stories from their past and talked about their hopes for the future.

When they finally reached their destination—a cozy and charming cottage in the countryside—they were both eager to begin this new chapter in their lives. With its tranquil lake view and surrounding beautiful grounds, the house was the perfect place for their honeymoon.

Marianne let out a sigh of joy as they walked in. The house was cozy and welcoming, with adorable furniture and a hearth that was blazing. Fresh flowers adorned the tables, filling the air with a heady scent.

"This is perfect," she said, grinning broadly at Andrew. "It seems unreal."

With a look of true satisfaction, Andrew smiled. "I'm glad that brings you joy. Like you, I wanted to remember our honeymoon for a lifetime."

They spent their days exploring the neighborhood, taking leisurely strolls by the lake, and enjoying the simple pleasures of one other's company. Every moment was valuable, an experience they would never forget.

One evening, sitting by the fireplace, Marianne looked into Andrew's eyes and felt her heart explode with love. "Andrew, can you recall the instance in which you declared your love for me?"

He nodded, his gaze soft. "I'll never forget that. I can never forget your slapping me on our wedding day. That was the moment when my life completely changed."

Marianne grinned, passion shining in her eyes. "I was terrified that you wouldn't share my feelings. However, it seemed as though a weight had been lifted off my shoulders when you proclaimed your love for me. Never have I been more content."

Taking her hands in his, Andrew spoke softly. "I see now that I was a fool not to inform you sooner. But I'm so happy that we managed to cross paths. Marianne, you are everything to me."

She lightly kissed him as she leaned in. "And, Andrew, you are everything to me. We are just getting started on this trip together. I'm eager to follow it wherever it leads."

They held each other tight, the warmth of their love a light in the darkness as the fire crackled and the night fell over the house.

The End?