Epilogue

EPILOGUE

LINCOLN

FOUR MONTHS LATER

“This view is beautiful,” my wife says, looking over the balcony.

“I agree, it is.” She turns towards me, blushing because she knows I am talking about her. We have a room at the Chelsea house, a quaint bed and breakfast near the Champs-Elysees, and our balcony has a clear view of the Eiffel Tower.

We have been in Paris for the last week on our honeymoon, which we had to postpone for a few months. November had a rough first trimester. Once she was better and got her energy back, we took my private plane, and here we are.

“So what are we going to do today?” she asks, walking back into the room. Gripping her waist, I pull her in between my legs and kiss her belly.

“I have a few ideas,” I answer, running my hands up her thighs under her robe toward her naked pussy. Instead of giving her the words, I strip her of her clothes and give her the loving she has come to crave for the next hour or so.

“Are you happy, baby?” I ask her this often, and the issues we faced during our engagement are not far from my mind. For a little while during that time, I wasn’t sure we would make it, and that gutted me. Now, I always check in, taking nothing for granted, including her silence. I want to know immediately if something is bothering her or if there is something I can do.

Lifting her head from my chest, she looks at me like I am crazy before grabbing my hand and placing it on top of hers, which is on her belly. “Of course I am, Lincoln. I am the happiest I have ever been, and I know it will only get better when our baby comes. I love you so much.” When she confirms her happiness, the tightness that fills my chest whenever I ask her that question loosens, knowing I am doing my job, “You have given me everything.” Being thankful for November doesn’t even begin to cover it.

“No, my love. It is you who have given me more than I ever thought possible. My only job in this world is to make all of your dreams come true, to love you and our children and to make sure you are all happy, healthy, and protected. That is a role I cherish.”

Forever.