An Encounter for a Lifetime

Chapter 23 - Epilogue

Life Adventure: All or Nothing brimmed with completed tasks, far outnumbering those left undone. Kanan and Nathaniel embarked on their thirst for adventure, but not before ensuring Emily's journey began with a seamless transition. She enrolled in college, opting to live in the dorms, eager to experience what life had to offer and forge meaningful friendships. Kanan had the opportunity to meet Gina. She promised to watch over Earth's harmony, a dream she left behind, reigniting a spark as Kanan and Nathaniel ventured where their feet took them, but not before visiting Maria and leaving her flowers. Nathaniel left his house empty for the time being, cursing himself for entertaining the idea of selling something his grandfather left him. As fate would have it, Nathaniel came across Johnathan unexpectedly during one of their trips. It was a heartfelt encounter that allowed them to reconnect, allowing Nathaniel to meet his niece, something he would never have imagined.

Over the years, a lot has unfolded. Family trips, once a meaningful part of Kanan's childhood, were now organized by his mother, insisting that the family gathered for a family-filled vacation at least once a year. Though Kanan thought she was doing it out of care for Nathaniel and Emily to have the experience and bring them even closer to the family. Pictures documented their lives, and with each snapshot and moment spent together, Kanan found himself even more deeply in love with Nathaniel. Inspired by his passion for photography, Kanan honed his skills and eventually opened a small studio.

The foundation for their relationship was steady, and Kanan couldn't fathom life without Nathaniel by his side. They returned from one of their trips, settling into the rhythm of their everyday life-when Kaelan told them he had an important announcement. As they pulled up to Kanan's mother's house, Nathaniel couldn't help but inquire, "Any hints as to why Kaelan wanted us all to be here? He said it was important, and if we don't show up, he'll hunt us down."

Kanan shrugged, laughing at his brother's childish behavior. "Knowing him, it could be anything," He replied. "As long as it's good news, I'll take whatever it is."

"Right on time," Ayana greeted them at the door with a warm smile. "Long time no see." She hugged them both tightly.

"Where's Kaelan?" Kanan asked, looking around the room.

"He's probably somewhere being nervous," Ayana said.

It made Kanan even more curious, seeing that whatever it was made Kaelan nervous. As they gathered for dinner, Kanan couldn't shake the feeling that something significant weighed on Kaelan's mind. It wasn't until after they were all caught up and reminisced over memories that Kaelan drew everyone's attention.

"I know everyone has been curious all night," He began, his voice carrying a hint of excitement. "I've been itching to spill the beans, but I figured we should catch up first." His gaze shifted to Ayana, a fond smile plastered on his lips. "As you all know, Ayana and I have been together since high school. She was a tough one to win over, yet here we are, years later, deeply in love. She had a great impact on my life."

"I can attest to that," Kanan interjected, earning a chuckle from the couple. While Kanan had been a source of influence for Kaelan in his younger years, there was a limit to his influence. Witnessing Kaelan's growth and evolution into the man he is today filled Kanan with admiration.

"High school me was a force to reckon with," Kaelan joked. "But, my point is, she's the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with." He reached for Ayana's hand, intertwining her fingers in his. "As the people who mean the most to us, we wanted to share the news. We're engaged."

"And I'm pregnant," Ayana added, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she held Kaelan's hand. "It was hard hiding the ring all night," Kaelan placed the ring back on her finger. Ayana's mother's eyes widened in surprise before she enveloped her in a tight hug, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks. Congratulations filling the air.