Epilogue

F or a bunch of extremely wealthy people, the McRainey clan proved to be very down-to-earth. Gwen and Edith’s picnic idea for the family reunion was a huge success.

Large tables were scattered on the front lawn, surrounded by family members greeting one another, the women hugging and men shaking hands. The boisterous laughter of children rang out as they scampered about, dodging their mother’s attempts to get them to sit down and eat.

Gwen excused herself from a group of women to look for Tristan. She feared he’d be overwhelmed and had perhaps withdrawn into the house.

Walking down the pathway towards the Dunimarle Castle, she hesitated to look up at the large building.

Home. This was to be her new home. They’d agreed to a civil ceremony in town later in the month, with only a few attending, her sisters and mother included. She looked back to the family gathered together enjoying the sunny day, and smiled. It could not be taken for granted. Times like these were rare.

Hearing her future husband’s husky laugh, she changed direction toward the side of the house, stopping when she saw him with Derrick.

Tristan placed his hand on Derrick’s shoulder. “Of course you are welcome to return. I hoped you would have reconsidered your feelings about me by now. You are family and I look forward to getting to know you better.”

Derrick nodded speechless, and then he embraced Tristan.

Gwen went to turn away, but stopped when Tristan called her over. The expression on Derrick’s face upon seeing her made her almost feel bad for him, but she merely nodded at him.

“I hope that one day you’ll forgive me for my actions.”

Gwen met Tristan’s eyes briefly before addressing Derrick. “I think I got my pay-back beating the crap out of you with my pillow.” She touched his arm. “I’m glad you’re here, Derrick.”

He nodded, obviously relieved. “Thank you.”

“Hey, what are you doing over here?” Sabrina walked up. “The party is over there.” She told them pointing towards the front lawn. “Tristan, your Uncle Clive wants you on his croquet team.”

Tristan pulled Gwen into his side, kissing her forehead. “Aye, today we will enjoy. After this day, there will be no time for enjoyment; the freedom of the men I left behind will become our focus.”

As Derrick and Sabrina headed back to the gathering, Tristan pulled Gwen back. Lifting her face, he kissed her deeply.

“I love you, Gwyneth Lockhart.”

She’d never tire of hearing those words. She kissed him back.

Countless challenges still loomed ahead. The others were still trapped, awaiting their rescue. Time was slipping through their fingers. But today—just for today—they allowed themselves to breathe, to feel a fleeting moment of happiness. Tomorrow, the battle would rage once more, with lives hanging in the balance.