Epilogue

EPILOGUE

Matt

S he finally comes walking out the door, her cheeks blotched from crying. But when she meets my eyes, there's a smile on her face. The air comes rushing out of my lungs when I see it. I wasn't sure how things were going to go. When she told me she wanted to make amends with Lexie, I was nervous. Lexie is a sweetheart, but some wounds are best left closed, and now that we're in our twenties, high school way behind us, I wasn't sure Lex wanted to revisit the pain of her past. But my brave wife asked me to drive her here, desperate to apologize for all the sins she committed.

She was so nervous, but I told her that even if Lex chose not to forgive her, she could know that she did the right thing. She could finally forgive herself. It's the only thing she was holding on to. Her mother, her fears of not measuring up, her relationship with food—she's overcome them all. Fought to become strong. And now, she's one hell of a businesswoman, kicking ass and taking names. And…she's the most amazing mom. But underlying all her success and all her happiness was this one last demon. However, it looks like she's overcome that too.

She climbs into the car, and then turns and practically squeals. "She didn't just forgive me, she wants to have lunch next week."

"I'm so amazed by you, babe. You never stop conquering your fears. You face everything head-on, and I'm so incredibly proud."

"You know…" She leans over the console, looking right at my lips. "I wouldn't have been able to do it without you. So thank you for always being here for me."

I doubt that. I think she's capable of doing anything she puts her mind to. And I'll always be here for her. As her husband and as her best friend, I'll bear the brunt of whatever brings her pain or worry, and we'll tackle it together. This life, this marriage, it's a team effort.

"We're in this together, babe. Batman and Fright Girl. The unstoppable duo."