Epilogue

Epilogue

Five years passed in a blur. A blur of joy and wonderful days.

That morning, Vivianne smiled as she watched the servants lay out a large, colorful blanket under the shade of a grand oak tree, its branches sprawling protectively above.

Baskets filled with fresh bread, fruits, cheese, and pastries were being carefully arranged, along with jugs of lemonade and bottles of chilled wine. She took a moment to adjust the positioning of the plates, ensuring everything was just so—she wanted today to be perfect. As if it could have been any other way.

Her thoughts drifted to Edward, who had taken their two children to the stables earlier that morning. She could picture him now, helping their four-year-old son Nathaniel onto his little pony, his strong hands steady and reassuring, his voice gentle and encouraging.

Their daughter Rose, being only two and far too young to ride alone yet, would be perched on his shoulders, giggling as she tugged at his hair and demanded to be galloped around.

Just then, she heard the sound of laughter carried on the breeze, and she turned to see them coming up the hill toward her. Her heart swelled at the sight. Edward was leading their son by the hand, his other arm wrapped protectively around their daughter, who was nestled against his side. They were all laughing, the children’s faces bright with joy.

Edward’s eyes met hers from across the lawn, and his face lit up with a warm, loving smile that made her heart skip a beat, just as it had all those years ago. He looked so handsome with his hair tousled by the wind, his shirt slightly undone at the collar, and an easy grace in his stride. Nathaniel, a miniature version of him, walked confidently at his side, his little legs moving quickly to keep up.

“Mommy, Mommy!” Nathaniel called out, his face glowing with excitement. “Daddy let me ride all by myself today!”

She smiled, overwhelmed by pride and love. “Did he now?” she replied, crouching down as he ran into her arms, hugging him tightly. “You must be getting very brave, my little rider!”

Rose, still perched on her father’s hip, reached out for her mother with a delighted squeal. He chuckled, setting the little girl down gently. She toddled over, wrapping her tiny arms around her mother’s neck.

Edward joined them, leaning down to press a tender kiss to her lips, his hand brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. “Everything looks wonderful, Viv,” he said softly, his gaze moving from her to the picnic spread. “You’ve outdone yourself, as always.”

She smiled up at him, her heart full. “It’s easy when I have such a beautiful family to share it with,” she replied warmly.

He grinned, his eyes sparkling with affection. “And here I thought we came out just for the pastries,” he teased, winking at her. She laughed, and it seemed to blend with the children’s giggles as they began to explore the picnic setup.

“When are the others coming?” he asked, wrapping his arm around her waist and pulling her close. “How much time do we have?”

“Not enough for what’s on your mind, you scoundrel,” she scolded, kissing him on the cheek.

“Darn it,” he whispered, but she still nudged him with her elbow to mind his words in front of the children.

They stood there for a moment, watching their children dart around, their son chasing a butterfly while their daughter toddled after him, her little feet stumbling over the uneven ground. The sight filled her with a profound sense of contentment.

“I love you,” he whispered, his voice low and sincere. “More with each passing day.”

She turned to look up at him, her heart filled with the same love that had only grown stronger over the years. “And I you,” she replied softly, leaning into his embrace. “I couldn’t have asked for a better life, or a better partner to share it with.”

As they stood together, enjoying the warmth of the afternoon sun and the joyful sounds of their children playing, they heard the unmistakable crunch of carriage wheels on the gravel path leading to the garden.

“Does that answer your previous question?” she asked playfully.

“Yes, sounds like we have company,” he remarked. “An early company.”

“They are not early,” she replied, laughing. “They are actually on time.”

She rushed to greet her parents as they stepped out of the carriage. Her father, looking as dignified as ever in his well-tailored coat, offered his hand to her mother, who emerged with a graceful ease that belied her age. Despite the years that had passed, there was a youthful light in her mother’s eyes, one that only seemed to grow brighter whenever she saw her children and grandchildren.

“Grandpapa! Grandmama!” Nathaniel called out, abandoning his butterfly chase and running toward them with all the energy his little legs could muster.

Her father laughed, bending down to sweep his grandson up into a tight embrace. “There’s my boy!” he exclaimed, lifting him high into the air. “Have you been practicing your riding?”

The boy nodded enthusiastically, beaming with pride. “Daddy let me ride by myself today!” he announced.

Vivianne’s mother chuckled, reaching down to pick up her granddaughter, who had toddled over, holding out her arms for a hug. “And what about you, my little darling?” she cooed, planting a soft kiss on the girl’s rosy cheek. “Have you been helping your mama?”

Vivianne smiled. “I am so glad you could come.”

“Us, too.” Her mother nodded. “Aurelia and Jonathon should be arriving shortly as well.”

As they all settled onto the blanket, taking their seats amid the baskets and dishes, Vivianne caught sight of another carriage approaching in the distance. A delighted smile spread across her face as she recognized it.

“It’s Aurelia!” she exclaimed, nudging Edward.

He followed her gaze and chuckled. “Well, this picnic is turning into quite the family affair, isn’t it?”

The carriage came to a halt and Aurelia, with child and radiating with happiness, stepped down with the assistance of her husband.

“Aurelia! Jonathon! How lovely of you to have made it!” Vivianne greeted them both with loving embraces.

“You know we wouldn’t miss seeing you and the little ones for anything in the world,” Aurelia assured her.

“And how is your little one?” Vivianne asked, gently placing her hand on her sister’s bourgeoning belly. “I must say, you are absolutely glowing, my dear.”

Aurelia blushed, as a soft smile touched her lips. “I’m starting to feel it now,” she admitted. “The baby has been quite… well, active these days.”

Vivianne looked up into her sister’s eyes. “I am so happy for you,” she whispered, completely taken over by emotion. “You are going to be a wonderful mother.”

Aurelia’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears, her hand resting on top of her sister’s. “Thank you,” she whispered back. “I’ve had the best example to learn from.” She squeezed Vivianne’s hand affectionately, the bond between them stronger than ever.

Edward joined them shortly, greeting them both. The children, sensing the joy around them, began to gather closer, curiosity lighting up their faces as they watched their mother and aunt share this intimate moment.

“Is there a baby in Auntie Aurelia’s tummy?” Nathaniel asked, his eyes wide with wonder.

Vivianne chuckled, nodding as she turned to her son. “Yes, darling. You’re going to have a little cousin soon.”

Rose, not to be left out, reached up to touch her aunt’s belly, her tiny hand resting next to her mother’s. “Baby?” she echoed, her voice filled with childish excitement.

Aurelia laughed, tears of happiness now spilling over. “Yes, sweetheart,” she confirmed. “A very special baby.”

Jonathon wrapped his arm around his wife, pulling her close as he kissed the top of his head. “We’re very excited,” he said, his voice full of love and pride.

As the family settled down on the blanket, the conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter, teasing, and shared stories. Vivianne’s father, ever the storyteller, regaled the group with tales of his youth, his deep voice animated as he recounted his many adventures. The children, wide-eyed with wonder, gathered close, hanging onto his every word. Vivianne watched with a smile, grateful for the happiness her father brought to her children and the special bond he shared with them.

Her mother then took it upon herself to lead the children in a game of hide-and-seek. Her laughter was infectious as she counted loudly, covering her eyes with her hands while the children scampered off to hide behind bushes, trees, and even their father’s back. The game was a great success, with even the adults getting involved, their playful shouts and cheers filling the garden as they joined in the fun.

Finally, Vivianne and Aurelia sat side by side on the blanket, watching their husbands compete in an impromptu game of lawn bowls. The men, naturally competitive, exchanged playful taunts and good-natured ribbing, each trying to outdo the other with every toss. The sisters couldn’t help but laugh at their antics, shaking their heads at their husbands’ boundless energy.

“Look at them,” Aurelia said with a chuckle, her hand resting on her belly. “It’s like they’re boys again, playing at some village fair.”

Vivianne smiled at Edward’s carefree grin as he lined up his next shot. “I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she replied softly. “It’s good to see them so happy.”

Aurelia nodded, leaning her head against Vivianne’s shoulder. “Yes, it is,” she agreed, her voice filled with contentment. “It’s moments like these that I cherish most.”

As the game continued, the children returned from their hiding spots, each taking turns being lifted high into the air by their father or uncle, their laughter ringing out with each playful spin. The sight filled Vivianne’s heart with a deep, abiding love for her family, for the life they had built together.

Everyone gathered back around the blanket with their cheeks flushed from the day’s activities. They sipped tea and indulged in the cakes. Vivianne’s parents took more trips down memory lane, while Aurelia and Jonathon spoke of the anticipation and excitement of becoming parents. Vivianne’s children, now tired from their play, curled up next to her, their little heads resting on her lap and their eyelids growing heavier with each passing moment.

Edward sat beside her, their shoulders touching and his hand resting on hers. He leaned in close, his voice a soft murmur meant only for her. “This has been a perfect day,” he said, his eyes filled with love as he looked at her.

She turned to him, her heart swelling with affection. “Yes,” she replied softly, her gaze sweeping over their family, all gathered together, happy and content. “It has.”

These were the moments that mattered most—the quiet, simple joys of family, of love, of a life well-lived together. And as she sat there, surrounded by those she loved, she felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for every single one of them.

THE END?

Extended Epilogue

Do you want to know how the relationship between Vivianne and Edward unfolds in the future?

Then make sure to check out this complimentary short story featuring our beloved couple!

Click the link or enter it into your browser

https://henriettaharding.com/vivianne

(After reading the Extended Epilogue, turn the page to read the first chapters from “A Lady Trapped in a Lustful Storm” , my Amazon Best-Selling novel!)