Epilogue

EPILOGUE

ANNALISE

One Year Later

P ulse racing, I stare at my reflection in the mirror. A thousand tiny butterflies dance within my stomach as I recognize the woman wearing the snow-white dress before me. Today is my wedding day, and I can’t deny the blend of fear and excitement that fills every corner of my being.

“Annalise, breathe.” Sienna’s voice cuts through my thoughts like a lifeline. She steps up beside me, her warm brown eyes reflecting concern. “You look like you’re about to pass out.”

Isabella appears on my other side, her blue eyes wide and innocent. “Mama, you okay?”

“Of course,” I reply, forcing a smile for their sake. My heart pounds against my chest, but I refuse to let my anxiety consume me. This day is a testament to the love we’ve built, to the unbreakable bond between Nikhil, Damian, Cassius, and me. “Just…a little nervous, that’s all.”

“Totally normal,” Sienna reassures me, wrapping an arm around my shoulders and giving me a gentle squeeze. “But remember, you’re not in this alone. We’re all here for you, and those three men waiting at the altar are head over heels in love with you.”

Isabella nods vigorously, her dark curls bouncing around her face. “Yeah, Mama! You look so pretty!”

“Thank you, my sweet girl,” I murmur, leaning down to press a kiss to her forehead. The simple touch of her skin against mine grounds me, reminding me of the strength I possess.

“Alright, time for some deep breaths,” Sienna suggests, releasing her hold on me and taking a step back. “Inhale slowly, then exhale. Just like that.”

As I follow her instructions, I feel the tension dissipate from my body, replaced by a newfound determination. This is our day, our chance to solidify the unique connection that has brought us together. And I’ll be damned if I let fear hold me back.

“Ready?” Sienna asks, her voice steady and comforting.

“Ready,” I affirm, taking one last look in the mirror before turning to face my future.

My heart pounds as I gather my thoughts, trying to find a moment of peace amidst the whirlwind of emotions. Isabella, sensing my need for comfort, scoops up my three-month-old son and brings him to me. His small face is the perfect blend of Nikhil’s strong features and my own softness.

“Look at this little guy,” Isabella says, her voice filled with love and warmth. “He’s the proof of how strong and amazing you are, Lily.”

I reach out to cradle my baby in my arms, feeling the weight of his tiny body against my chest. As I hold him close, I’m reminded of the strength and resilience that brought me to this day—the fierce love I have for my children and the unshakable bond I share with Nikhil, Damian, and Cassius.

“Hey there, my sweet boy,” I coo softly, pressing my lips to his forehead. The connection between us is palpable, an invisible thread that weaves through every fiber of my being.

“See? You got this,” Isabella reassures me, placing a hand on my forearm. “You’ve faced greater challenges than this, and you’ve always come out stronger. Today is no different.”

She’s right. I feel a surge of determination rise within me, pushing away the last remnants of anxiety. I look down at my son, his innocent eyes brimming with trust, and I know I can do this. I can face whatever comes my way, because I have them—my beautiful family—by my side.

“Thank you, Bella,” I whisper, a tear escaping the corner of my eye. “Your love and support mean everything to me.”

“Always,” she replies, giving me a tight hug before stepping back, allowing me to focus on the task ahead.

Taking a deep breath, I steel myself for the ceremony, drawing strength from the tender connection I share with my son. As we prepare to walk down the aisle, I remind myself that this union is more than just a marriage; it’s the joining of our souls, the merging of our hearts, and the beginning of an incredible journey—one that will be filled with love, passion, and the unbreakable bonds of family.

A whirlwind of laughter and rustling tulle bursts through the door, drawing my attention away from my reflection in the mirror. My twin daughters, Gina and Franny, dash into the room dressed as flower girls, their faces alight with excitement. Their joyful energy immediately lifts my spirits, and I can’t help but smile at the sight of them.

“Mommy, look!” Gina exclaims, twirling around to show off her dress. “I feel like a princess!”

“Me too!” Franny adds, joining her sister in a dizzying dance of delight.

“Beautiful princesses,” I agree, my heart swelling with pride and affection. “Both of you are going to be the most stunning flower girls ever.”

Gina and Franny giggle and continue their playful twirling while Isabella and Sienna step up beside me. The two women share a knowing glance before Sienna speaks.

“Alright, Annalise, it’s time for us to work our magic on you,” she declares, her tone lighthearted yet determined.

“Let’s make sure you’re looking absolutely radiant as you walk down that aisle,” Isabella chimes in, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Together, they set to work, expertly applying my makeup and styling my hair. As they fuss over me, my mind races with anticipation, but I try to push any lingering doubts to the back of my mind. This is my moment, and I need to embrace it fully.

“Annalise, remember to breathe,” Sienna reminds me gently, catching my eye in the mirror. “You’re going to be amazing, and they’ll be blown away when they see you.”

“Sienna’s right,” Isabella adds. “They fell in love with the incredible woman you are, and today is just a celebration of that love.”

Their words soothe my nerves, and I feel my confidence returning. I glance over at Gina and Franny, still giggling and playfully chasing each other around the room. Their laughter is infectious, and I can’t help but let it lift my spirits even more.

“Thank you, both of you,” I say, my voice filled with gratitude. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Probably wear your veil as a cape,” Sienna quips, grinning at me in the mirror. We all burst into laughter, our nerves dissipating in the warm embrace of friendship.

As Isabella and Sienna put the final touches on my appearance, I take a moment to truly appreciate the love and support that surrounds me—my friends, my daughters, and soon, my husbands. Together, we are strong, and I know deep down that nothing will ever tear us apart.

“Alright, Annalise,” Sienna says, stepping back to survey her handiwork. “You’re ready.”

“Ready for the most unforgettable day of your life,” Isabella echoes, her eyes shining with pride.

Looking at my reflection, I see a woman who has been through so much but has come out stronger than ever. My heart swells with anticipation and gratitude. With one last deep breath, I nod, prepared to face my future head-on.

“Let’s do this.”

The chapel doors swing open before me, revealing a sea of faces illuminated by the flickering glow of candlelight. I take a deep breath and step forward, clutching my bouquet of crimson roses tightly in my trembling hands. The scent of the flowers is both heady and intoxicating, just like the anticipation that courses through my veins.

“Deep breaths, Annalise,” I remind myself, focusing my attention on the rhythm of my footsteps as I make my way down the aisle. The rustle of my gown seems to echo throughout the room, mirroring the pounding of my heart against my rib cage. And then I see them—Nikhil, Damian, and Cassius—standing at the altar, waiting for me with expressions of love and excitement etched across their handsome features.

“Almost there,” I whisper to myself, feeling an unexpected surge of confidence as our eyes lock. Their gazes hold a promise—not only of passion and desire but also of unwavering loyalty and devotion.

“Darling, you look absolutely stunning!” Cassius calls out, his voice barely audible above the soft strains of music that fill the air. His easygoing charm never fails to bring a smile to my face, and I can’t help but feel a little more at ease as I walk toward him.

“Thank you,” I reply, my voice wavering slightly as I fight back the tears that threaten to spill over. Despite my anxiety, I know that I’m surrounded by love and support—not only from my future husbands but also from the friends and family who have gathered to witness our union.

As I draw closer to the altar, I notice Nikhil’s piercing blue eyes burning into mine. His normally stoic demeanor has softened, and I can sense the protective nature that lies beneath the surface. It’s a side of him that I’ve grown to cherish, especially when it’s directed toward our family.

“Annalise,” Damian murmurs, his chiseled jawline and intense gaze betraying the storm of emotions that rage within him. He’s always been a pillar of strength for our unconventional family, and I’ve come to rely on his unwavering loyalty and fierce protectiveness.

“Damian,” I respond, my voice barely more than a whisper as I reach the altar. My heart hammers in my chest, but I know that together, we are strong enough to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

As our hands intertwine, I finally allow myself to exhale, feeling the last remnants of my anxiety dissipate into the air. The love and excitement in their gazes is palpable, and I know that we’re ready to embark on this new chapter of our lives—bound by the unbreakable ties of love, loyalty, and family.

The officiant’s voice cuts through the electrifying tension in the air, signaling the beginning of the ceremony. My heart races as I stand beside Nikhil, Damian, and Cassius, all of us brimming with anticipation and determination.

“Today, we gather to celebrate the love and commitment shared by Annalise, Nikhil, Damian, and Cassius,” the officiant announces, his tone solemn yet warm. “Each of them has chosen to embark on this unique and beautiful journey together, pledging their unwavering devotion to one another and the family they’ve created.”

I can’t help but feel a shiver of excitement course through me as I listen to the words that will bind us together for life. As the officiant continues, I gather my thoughts, focusing on the love I share with these extraordinary men and the promises I’m determined to uphold.

“Annalise, it’s time for you to recite your vows,” the officiant prompts gently.

Taking a deep breath, I begin, “Nikhil, Damian, Cassius—I stand before you today not only as a partner but as a devoted mother and friend. Each of you has shown me the depths of your love, your strength, and your unyielding support.” A tear escapes the corner of my eye as I continue, “In return, I vow to cherish and honor each of you, to be there in times of joy and sorrow, and to protect our family with every fiber of my being.”

As I finish, a chorus of affirmations erupts from the men, their eyes glistening with emotion. My chest swells with pride and gratitude, knowing the lengths they’re willing to go to ensure our happiness.

“Annalise, now it is time to seal your union with a kiss,” the officiant instructs, his voice softening.

With a shared nod of understanding, I turn to each of them in turn, my heart swelling with love and adoration.

First, I press my lips to Nikhil’s, feeling the heat of his passion for our family as it courses through our connection. Then I move to Damian, whose tender kiss speaks volumes of his desire to protect and cherish us all. And finally, Cassius, whose searing embrace sends shivers down my spine, cementing our bond as a family like molten steel.

As we break apart, I can feel the weight of our commitment settling over us like a warm blanket, shielding us from the uncertainties that lie ahead. Together, we stand strong, united by the love we share and the family ties that bind us forever.

The room erupts into a cacophony of applause and cheers as the officiant announces, “I now pronounce you married!” The sound washes over me like a wave, the joy and happiness in the air so palpable I feel it in every cell of my being.

“Congratulations!” Isabella exclaims, her eyes welling up with tears. My three husbands and I share a loving embrace, our hearts beating as one in this extraordinary moment.

“Thank you,” I whisper to each of them, my voice shaky yet filled with gratitude.

My gaze wanders across the room, taking in the faces of those who have supported us on this journey. Sienna smiles warmly at me, her eyes reflecting the pride she feels for her friend. My twins, Gina and Franny, giggle and clap their hands, their innocent joy contagious.

As I hold our beautiful three-month-old son close to my chest, I can’t help but think about how far we’ve come. From the heartache of my turbulent past to the love and strength we’ve forged together, we’ve built a life that defies expectations, a life anchored by the unbreakable bond we share.

“Mommy!” Gina calls out, tugging at my dress. I glance down at her, noticing the impish grin spreading across her face.

“Can we dance now?” Franny chimes in, bouncing on her toes in anticipation.

“Of course,” I say, kissing each of their foreheads before handing our son to Nikhil. As I take their tiny hands in mine, I realize just how much love surrounds me—love from my partners, my children, and our extended family.

“Are you ready for our first dance, Mrs. Tryst?” Damian asks, extending his hand toward me with a playful smirk. My breath catches in my throat, the reality of our new life settling in.

“Ready as I’ll ever be,” I reply, accepting his hand and allowing him to lead me onto the dance floor. As we sway together in perfect harmony, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe at the life we’ve created.

“Thank you for loving me and our children unconditionally,” I whisper into Damian’s ear, my heart swelling with gratitude. “We’re so lucky to have you.” His grip on me tightens, and I know he feels the same way.

“Always, Annalise,” he murmurs, placing a chaste kiss on my forehead. “Nothing will ever come between us.”

As Cassius and Nikhil join us on the dance floor, their presence a testament to the strength of our bond, I finally allow myself to bask in the significance of this moment. The love and support that surrounds me is overwhelming, and I know that together, we can conquer anything life throws our way.

“Let’s make a promise,” Cassius suggests, his voice low and serious. “No matter what challenges lie ahead, we’ll face them together, as a family.”

“Agreed,” Nikhil adds, his eyes locked on mine, filled with determination and devotion.

“Forever,” I say, sealing our pact with a nod and intertwining our fingers, the weight of our commitment forging us into an unstoppable force. We are bound by love, and nothing will tear us apart.

The warmth of my family’s embrace envelops me, a living shield against the darkness that has threatened us in the past. I stand among them, my heart brimming with newfound joy as I rest my head on Damian’s chest, his strong arms wrapped protectively around me. I feel Nikhil and Cassius close by, their unwavering presence completing our circle.

“Annalise, my love,” Damian murmurs into my ear, his voice laced with emotion. “You have made me the happiest man alive.”

“Me too,” Nikhil chimes in, his hand gently squeezing mine as he leans in for a tender kiss. The sparks between us ignite, a testament to the passion we share.

“Count me in,” Cassius adds with a teasing grin, brushing a stray lock of hair from my face before leaning down, his lips capturing mine in a searing kiss that leaves me breathless. He pulls back, his blue eyes shining with sincerity. “We are truly blessed.”

I can’t help but agree, my heart swelling with gratitude as I take in the love surrounding us—not just from the men who are now my husbands, but from our children and the dear friends who have stood by us through thick and thin. This profound connection, this unity of spirit, is our greatest weapon against the shadows that might threaten to encroach upon our happiness.

“Let’s make a vow,” I suggest, my voice choked with emotion. “No matter what lies ahead, we’ll always remember this moment—the love, the commitment, the strength that binds us together.”

“Forever,” Damian echoes solemnly, his grip tightening as if to emphasize his words.

“Forever,” Nikhil and Cassius affirm in unison, their voices resolute and unwavering.

We stand there, united in our determination, as the laughter and music swirl around us like a protective cloak. I can feel the power of our love pulsing through me, filling every corner of my soul with light and chasing away any lingering doubts or fears.

“Thank you,” I whisper, overcome by the magnitude of what we have accomplished together. “For everything.”

“Always, Annalise,” Damian replies, his voice thick with emotion. “We’ll never let anything tear us apart.”

“Never,” Nikhil and Cassius echo, their gazes locked on mine as they reaffirm their commitment to our unbreakable bond.

As the night deepens and the shadows lengthen, our joyous celebration continues unabated—a beacon of hope and love in a world that has known too much darkness. We dance, we laugh, we hold each other close, drawing strength from the knowledge that together, we are unstoppable.

And as the first light of dawn begins to break over the horizon, I know without a doubt that we have won. Our love has triumphed, and nothing will ever stand in our way again.