Masen doesn’t speak but walks us over to the massive fire ring. It’s over filled with branches and twigs stacked by only Masen’s hands to burn at least through the night, signifying our burning love. It ignites with a fiery whoosh. The wood crackles from the sudden heat. He looks down at his hand that hasn’t yet touched the torch. “Oh shit,” he says then looks over at me. No one seems to notice he never physically lit the blaze.

EPILOGUE

The party is winding down. My little ones are curled together with their uncle, Sniffer, listening to his stories of the adventures he’s had over the past five years. Every time he comes home he spends hours regaling them with his exploits. The difference this time, he’s home to stay. After all these years, he hasn’t found his Mate, but I do believe he’s found himself.

Sniffer’s white hair still remains the same, but his eyes tell a completely different story. The once clear dark blue has now been shadowed a bit with age and experience. His smile is still easy but sad, especially when they travel to his once best friend Sam. Over the years, they’ve spoken, but time and distance along with Sam’s relationship with David seems to have strained their once vibrant friendship.

I’ve watched Sam’s gaze wander to Sniffer repeatedly. The longing is almost palpable, even if it’s just his friendship he misses. You can feel the loss.

David has been gone for almost two years now. Sam never fully divulged what happened, but I do know he was deeply hurt by the man. His smile isn’t quite as bright, his laughter, which I’ve always loved, doesn’t come so easy anymore. I hope with Sniffer being home they can rekindle what they once had.

My thoughts are interrupted as Stella launches her little body onto my lap. “Mama, did you hear that? Uncle Sniffer said he’d take me for ice cream tomorrow!” she exclaims excitedly. Then in a not so quiet whisper, she adds, “I’m going to invite Uncle Sam, too!”

I laugh at her declaration. “Okay, sweet stuff, I’m sure he’d enjoy that.” She knows how close they once were from the stories she’s been told.

Aiden climbs onto my lap slowly, making sure not to bump or dislodge his excitable twin. The quiet confidence he displays is in complete contrast to his fiery little sister. He takes the role of big brother very seriously. Though, he was only born minutes before her. I’ve never seen closer or more complimentary siblings.

Masen walks in the room, and my breath falters. Still after all this time. He has a small smile playing at the corner of his lips as he reaches down and scoops Stella out of my lap, but before pulling away, he drops his lips to mine and lingers for just a moment. My neck instinctively arches up to catch more of his mouth as he pulls away, chuckling. My huff of disappointment goes unheard by most, but not him.