Epilogue

Claire wrapped her arms around herself, trying to fend off the October chill that seemed to seep through every layer of her clothing. She stood on the outskirts of the set, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of crew members adjusting lights and positioning cameras. The normally empty fields had been transformed into a movie set, all of it revolving around a thatched cottage that had been restored just for this movie.

They were back filming again, and Evelyn, dressed in a stylish 1930s outfit featuring a belted burgundy wool coat and a vintage hat, stood out as the scene outside the cottage came to life.

Claire watched as Evelyn transformed into her character, a determined woman navigating the complexities of life during that decade, her expression intense and captivating despite the cold. Even in the midst of the organized chaos of a film set, Evelyn's presence was magnetic.

A few minutes later, the director's voice sent everyone in motion again. "Cut!"

Evelyn turned towards Claire, a warm smile replacing the fierce determination she'd worn moments before. She lifted the hem of her coat slightly, making her way over, her breath visible in the cool air. "Sorry you have to spend your birthday standing out in the cold."

Claire shook her head, her smile widening. "It's my first time on a set like this. It's amazing to see all the work that goes into it. And I'm with you, getting to see what you do best."

Evelyn laughed softly, her eyes almost twinkling. "Any comments on my accent?"

Claire grinned, remembering when she told Evelyn never to do a movie where she'd have to attempt an Irish accent. "It sounds good to me," she said, holding up her hands as if surrendering. "And others have said it too. I'm sorry for doubting you."

"Don't think I won't use that in my acceptance speech. I have a feeling this movie is going to be nominated for a lot of awards."

Claire laughed. "Well in fairness, I didn't think you would've had almost four years living here to work on that accent. So..."

"I'm still not letting you live it down," Evelyn teased.

Before Claire could respond, the assistant director called out, summoning Evelyn back to the set. Evelyn squeezed Claire's hand, her fingers lingering before she turned to walk back. Claire watched, her heart swelling with pride and love as Evelyn resumed her position under the lights.

As filming continued, Claire's mind wandered back over the past four years. This was the first movie Evelyn had done since moving to Ireland, and Claire couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. After buying the ruins of her grandfather's home, Evelyn had thrown herself into renovating the bungalow.

Evelyn had rented out her Los Angeles home, cutting ties with her old life and fully embracing her new one here. Occasionally, she'd traveled to London for smaller roles in TV shows, but most of her time was spent here.

Claire had loved watching the transformation, not just of the bungalow, but of Evelyn herself. With each passing day, Evelyn had grown more confident, more at peace with who she was and what she wanted.

When the renovation was finally complete, Claire had moved in without hesitation. Waking up next to Evelyn every morning, going for horseback rides, curling up together on the couch in the evenings… It was everything she'd ever wanted.

Standing here on the movie set, surrounded by the bustle of the crew, Claire still couldn't quite believe that this was her life. She'd never imagined, back when she'd first met Evelyn, that they'd end up here. That Evelyn would not only come out publicly, but that she'd make a home here in Ireland, with Claire by her side. It seemed like a dream sometimes.

As Evelyn glanced over at her from the set, her eyes warm and her smile bright, Claire felt a rush of love and gratitude. She knew she was lucky. Lucky that Evelyn had chosen to stay at Trish's estate all those years ago. It was a decision that had changed both of their lives forever. If Evelyn had picked somewhere else, they never would have met, and every single day, Claire remembered how lucky she was to have found this incredible woman.