Epilogue

L ila

"Marlie! Don't eat the straw!" I giggle and pull the strand from her baby fist. "That's for baby giraffes, not baby humans." She grins a toothless grin back at me.

I stand next to Jasper, leaning in the stall that houses two baby giraffes. Their long necks bend gracefully, their large, curious eyes watching the scene unfold. Inside the stall, Marlie, our one-year-old daughter, is playing with Max and Leo, Dante and Ava's twin boys. The children's laughter fills the air, a symphony of joy that brings a smile to my lips.

Marlie sits close to one of the baby giraffes, her eyes wide with delight. The giraffe, intrigued by her tiny, giggling form, bends its long neck down and begins to lick Marlie's cheeks with its long, rough tongue. Marlie bursts into giggles, her laughter ringing out like the sweetest music. The baby giraffe's gentle bleats blend with her giggles, creating a moment of pure, unfiltered joy.

Jasper, standing beside me, watches the scene with a loving smile. His gaze is tender, filled with a mixture of fatherly pride and adoration. He steps forward, his movements fluid and confident, and sweeps Marlie into his arms. She laughs even more, her small hands clinging to his shoulders as he spins her around playfully. The sight of them together, so happy and full of life, makes my heart swell.

"You were born to be a dad, Jasper. Born to protect people," I say, stepping closer and placing a hand on his arm. My voice is warm, affectionate, filled with the love I feel for this man who has become my world.

Jasper plants a kiss on Marlie's cheek, making her giggle once more. He looks at me, his eyes meeting mine with a depth of emotion that takes my breath away. "I love being a dad," he says, his voice filled with sincerity and pride.

My eyes twinkle with mischief and love as I suggest, "Maybe we should have more kids soon." It's a playful comment, but there's truth in it too. The idea of expanding our family, of sharing more moments like this, fills me with excitement.

Jasper's face lights up with a smile that's both surprised and delighted. He leans in, capturing my lips in a deep, tender kiss that promises a future filled with love and family. Marlie, nestled comfortably in his arms, giggles again, reaching out to touch both our faces, completing the circle of love.

We pull back from the kiss, our foreheads touching. The intimate murmur of our voices, the soft sound of our kiss, and Marlie's giggles blend with the peaceful noises of the circus. The moment feels timeless, a snapshot of happiness that I want to hold onto forever.

Jasper shifts Marlie in his arms, looking at me with a playful glint in his eyes. "You think you can handle more kids, huh?" he teases, his tone light but filled with affection.

I laugh softly, the sound mingling with the gentle rustling of the nearby tents. "Oh, I know I can. The question is, can you?"

"Bring it on," he replies, his smile widening. "I love every second of this."

We stand there, wrapped in each other's presence, watching as the world around us bustles with life and energy. The vibrant circus tents and animals create a lively backdrop, a testament to the life we've built together. Jasper's eyes meet mine, filled with love and contentment.

As we watch Marlie play with Max and Leo again, I feel a deep sense of peace and fulfillment. This is our life, our family, and it's perfect in its own chaotic, beautiful way. The thought of adding more children to our little circus family only adds to the sense of joy and anticipation that fills me.

Jasper pulls me closer, his arm around my waist, and we continue to watch the children. "You know," he says softly, "I think you're right. More kids would be amazing."

I lean into him, feeling the warmth of his body against mine. "I'm glad you agree. Let's get started soon."

He chuckles, a low, seductive sound that sends a shiver down my spine. "How about right now?"

I laugh, swatting his arm playfully. "Behave, Mr. Kane. We have a circus to run."

His eyes darken with a playful glint. "I'll hold you to that later."

The promise in his voice makes my pulse quicken, a delicious thrill running through me. I look forward to the future, to the life we're building together, and I know that whatever comes, we'll face it as a team.

The morning continues, filled with the sounds and sights of the circus preparing for another day. Marlie, Max, and Leo run around, their laughter a constant backdrop to our conversations. The baby giraffes watch with gentle curiosity, their presence adding to the magic of the moment.

As the day progresses, we move through our routines, each task a part of the larger tapestry of our lives. There are always challenges, always moments of conflict and drama, but they are woven into the fabric of our love and our commitment to each other.

In the afternoon, as the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the circus grounds, Jasper and I take a moment to ourselves. We find a quiet spot away from the bustle, the sounds of the circus fading into the background. He pulls me into his arms, and we stand there, just enjoying the peace and the beauty of the moment.

"You know," he says softly, his breath warm against my ear, "I've never been happier."

"Me neither," I reply, my voice barely a whisper. "This is everything I've ever wanted."

He kisses me again, a slow, lingering kiss that speaks of promises and dreams. When we finally pull back, I see the future in his eyes, a future filled with love, laughter, and a growing family.

As the evening draws near and the circus comes alive with the excitement of the upcoming performance, I feel a sense of anticipation and joy. This is our life, our world, and it's perfect. And with Jasper by my side, I know that anything is possible.

The lights of the circus twinkle like stars, a reminder of the magic we create every day. And as we prepare for another night under the big top, I know that with Jasper, Marlie, and whatever the future holds, we'll face it all with love, strength, and a sense of adventure.

The End.