Epilogue

EPILOGUE

Two weeks later …

J enna entered the village church, the gentle fragrance of fresh flowers filling the air. The small chapel was adorned with blooms of every kind, their vibrant colors a testament to the joyous occasion. It seemed as if all the villagers were crammed in the pews along with her brother Ethan, Charity, her mother, cousin Elizabeth, Aunt Bess, and Aunt Margaret. Cillian's mother and sister were present, beaming their joy. Several other family members and dear friends were all present, their faces glowing with happiness as they watched her.

She lifted her gaze to find Cillian standing at the altar, his eyes locked on hers. He was so handsome, garbed in dark trousers with a dark golden waistcoat that matched his eyes. His cravat was immaculately tied, his hair still overlong, but she loved it so. Jenna's heart fluttered at the look of awe on Cillian's face as she walked toward him.

You are beautiful , he mouthed.

Her soft laugh echoed through the church. The high-waisted, pale blue dress flowed gracefully over her figure, the delicate fabric shimmering in the soft light that filtered through the stained-glass windows. Her raven black hair had been carefully pinned and plaited into an intricate arrangement, though a few wispy tendrils had escaped, cascading decoratively around her face.

The love in his gaze was undeniable, a warm, intense light that seemed to reach straight into her soul. It brought a smile to her lips, even as tears welled up in her eyes. This was the man she loved—the man who would never let her go, the man who had become her everything.

Cillian's expression softened as each step brought her closer to him, her heart swelling with every beat. When she finally reached the altar and stood before him, she felt as if the world had narrowed to just the two of them, their love the only thing that mattered.

The vicar cleared his throat, drawing Jenna's attention to the solemnity of the moment. As he opened the prayer book, the congregation fell silent, the air thick with anticipation and reverence.

"Dearly beloved," the vicar began, his voice steady and warm, "we are gathered together here in the sight of God and in the face of this congregation to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony, which is an honorable estate …"

This was the beginning of their forever—a lifetime of shared moments, challenges, and endless love. And as she stood there, surrounded by those who loved her most, she knew with absolute certainty that this was exactly where she was meant to be.

6 weeks later …

The sun hung lazily in the afternoon sky, casting a golden hue over the rolling hills and meadows surrounding their estate. Cillian leaned back on the blanket, propping himself up on one elbow as he watched Jenna with a contented smile. They had chosen a secluded spot by the lake for their picnic, the tranquil water reflecting the clear blue sky. The gentle breeze played with Jenna's raven hair, sending it streaming behind her like a dark, silken banner.

Jenna was laughing, the sound light and carefree as she watched their pet goat and piglet frolic together nearby. Lily had always been a mischievous little creature with a fondness for causing trouble. She was attempting to playfully butt the piglet, who responded with a series of delighted squeals as it dodged and darted around.

Jenna sat with one hand tenderly resting on her belly, a gesture that sent a surge of warmth through him. The knowledge that she carried their child, that they were on the cusp of building a family together, was almost overwhelming in its sweetness. They had been married for only six weeks, but already, it felt as though they had shared a lifetime of happiness.

The memory of the day Jenna had learned she was pregnant was still vivid in his mind. She had shrieked with joy, tears streaming down her cheeks as she cried out in pure happiness. The commotion had drawn the attention of nearly every servant in their now fully staffed home, all of whom had rushed to see what was wrong with their mistress. But instead of distress, they had found a woman so filled with joy that it had brought smiles to their faces as well.

Somehow, the news spread through the village like wildfire, and for days after, they were called upon with many gifted baskets. Cillian's gaze softened as he continued to watch Jenna. She had surprised him in so many ways, not least of which was when she revealed the extent of her dowry and investment portfolio—over one hundred thousand pounds. It had shocked him, both the amount and the ease with which she spoke of it. But what had truly struck him was her willingness for him to use it all to restore their estates. Cillian had set aside half of it for their children's inheritance and her marriage portion.

They had worked together to balance the estate ledgers, ensure everything was in order, and furnish their home with thoughtful care. Jenna shared the investment insights she learned at Berkeley Square, and together, they invested in a few more ventures. She had been a partner in every sense of the word, and he felt an overwhelming gratitude for her presence in his life. It was more than love—it was a deep, abiding respect and admiration, a recognition that they were equals in this journey they had embarked on together.

As he looked at her now, her face glowing with happiness, her hand resting protectively over their unborn child, Cillian felt a profound sense of peace.

"Cillian," Jenna called softly, turning her head to meet his gaze. Her eyes were bright, filled with a love that mirrored his own. "Come here."

He moved toward her without hesitation, lying down beside her and pulling her gently into his arms. She nestled against him, her head resting on his shoulder, and he placed a tender kiss on her hair.

"Our little family," she murmured, her voice filled with wonder.

"Yes," he agreed, his voice rough with emotion. "Our little family."

They lay there in contented silence, the sounds of the playful goat and piglet fading into the background as Cillian held Jenna close. This was his family, his future. And he would do everything in his power to protect and cherish it.