Chapter352: Epilogue

Isla “Do you think we have enough?” I ask my mate as I brace my hands on the kitchen island in our sprawling, but cozy, beachside home. We rebuilt the one Ella destroyed and added four extra bedrooms, which are needed at a time like this. The whole family is here for the Winter Solstice next week. Maddox turns from the stove wearing an apron with little flowers all over it–a gift from our grandchildren. Four messy little names are scrawled on its pale blue fabric. Sydney, Ryan, Kenna, and Misty. Had anyone told me that one day I’d witness Maddox with a spatula in hand, wearing an apron while making pancakes shaped like animals, I wouldn’t have believed them. But look at us now. Maddox opens his mouth to answer my question but is interrupted by a shriek coming from beyond the double doors leading off the kitchen, which are open to the perfect day outside. I glance over my shoulder at the three children chasing each other in the backyard. “They’re going to wake up Misty,” Maddox sighs, s