Epilogue

EPILOGUE

RORY

Two years later…

Dear Papa,

I wanted to share something special today. I know you’re watching over us, but it feels right to put my thoughts into words.

So much has happened since you went to Heaven. Back then, I didn’t believe in forever. But now, I know it’s real.

A year ago, Dad’s dream came true. Mabel’s Sweet Treats is his now. The whole town came together—everyone pitched in, even strangers who heard my story about how hard Dad worked. He cried when the final check came in, and he had enough to buy the bakery. I’ve never seen him so happy, except maybe when he’s with Wynter.

Speaking of Wynter, I really love him, Papa. I know it must sound weird that he’s my teacher now. He’s coaching PE and leading ROTC at the high school. At first, it was super awkward. I mean, who wants their dad—well, soon-to-be dad—as their teacher? But Wynter is the best. He doesn’t just teach; he believes in me. He told me I could make it to the NBA one day. Can you believe that? Me, Rory, from Aspen Ridge. And I believe him, Papa. I practice every day, just like he told me to.

I think you’d be proud of Wynter. He’s strong, kind, and just the right amount of tough. He reminds me a little of you, but he’s got his own way of showing he cares. He makes me want to be better—at basketball, at school, at life.

Next year, Wynter and Dad are getting married. Wynter says he can’t wait to adopt me, to officially be my dad. But you know what, Papa? You’ll always be my first. My forever Papa. I’m the luckiest 14-year-old to have had three dads in my life. Each of you taught me something different about love and family. But you, Papa, will always have a special place in my heart.

I hope I’ve made you proud. I’ll keep writing, I promise.

Love always,

Rory

I folded the letter carefully, pressing the edges so they lined up just right, then slid it into an envelope. The envelope felt a little heavier than paper should, maybe because it carried so much of my heart.

I made my way downstairs, where Dad and Wynter were waiting in the living room. The memory corner was lit softly, pictures of Papa smiling at us.

“You ready, champ?” Wynter asked, his voice warm.

I nodded, holding up the envelope. “Yeah.”

Dad reached out, placing a hand on my shoulder. “He’d be proud of you, kiddo. Just like we are.”

I swallowed hard but managed a smile. Together, the three of us stood before the memory corner. I gently placed the envelope on the shelf, where it joined the others I’d written over the years.

As we turned to leave, Wynter slung an arm around my shoulders. “In the mood for some hot chocolate?”

“Definitely. But can we shoot some hoops after?” I asked, grinning.

“Only if you’re ready to lose,” Wynter teased, winking.

Dad laughed, shaking his head. “Good luck with that. Rory’s been practicing.”

I looked between my two dads, my chest swelling with warmth. My family. My forever.

And as we strolled out of the room, leaving the memory corner glowing softly behind us, I glanced back once more, whispering under my breath, “Thanks for everything, Papa.”

THANK YOU!

Thank you so much for reading Wynter's Second Chance ! Writing Taran and Wynter’s journey was such a joy, and I hope you loved every heartfelt moment as much as I did. If their story warmed your heart, it would mean the world to me if you could share the love! A quick review or star rating on Amazon, BookBub, or Goodreads helps other readers find their way to this book. And don’t forget to recommend it to friends and family who enjoy stories like this one. Your support truly means everything—thank you for being part of this journey! xo

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