10. Epilogue - Serenity

Summer sunlight streams through the cabin windows as I sort through the last box of my parents' things. The trial ended yesterday—Ethan pled guilty to everything. Murder. Forgery. Money laundering. The works.

"You don't have to do this today," Agis says from the doorway. His massive frame casts a familiar shadow over the floor and I smile.

"I do." I lift out Dad's climbing logbook and run my fingers over his precise handwriting. "Now that I know the truth, I can finally honor them properly."

The last entry still hurts—the green trail, the day Ethan sabotaged their equipment. But the pain has dulled, replaced by something like peace.

On the wall in the lobby of the Red Top Wildlife Center, we've created a memorial—their harnesses, pristine new ropes, and the photos from the evidence locker showing what really happened. Below sits the plaque for the Patricia and James Jones Safety Program.

"First safety course starts next week," I say, leaning back against Agis's chest.

"Your parents would be proud of how you brought their killer to justice,” he says. "How you've protected their legacy."

The center is thriving now. Between the reward money from breaking up Ethan's operation and the restitution the court ordered, we've expanded in ways Mom and Dad only dreamed of.

"Speaking of legacies..." I guide Agis's hand to my slightly rounded belly. "The doctor confirmed it this morning. Twins."

His delighted roar probably startles every animal in the sanctuary. Through our bond, his joy blazes like sunlight.

"Two cubs," he breathes, nuzzling my neck. "Like Talon's."

"The second orc-human twins ever recorded." I turn in his arms, grinning. "Your brother says the new nursery is almost ready."

"About that..." He looks sheepish. "My other brothers want to come help."

"How many brothers?"

"Just three. Maybe four. Five at most."

I laugh and kiss him. "Good thing we're expanding the staff housing. This place was meant for family." I gesture to my parents' photo. "All kinds of families."

My parents built this place to protect wildlife. But somehow it's become more - a sanctuary for all lost souls, a place where love crosses every boundary.

"I love you," I tell Agis, and I smile as our bond pulses with shared joy.

His answering smile is brighter than the summer sun. "I love you too, mate."

My parents died protecting what they loved. Now it's my turn to protect this place, these people, our growing family.

"Ready?" Agis asks.

I squeeze his hand. "All in."

"All in," he agrees, and I know it's no gamble this time—just truth.

This is what winning really means.

***

Thank you for reading Unruly Hearts.