At Home

Epilogue ~1 Year Later~

I watch out the glass sliding door, drinking my coffee, as my 3 favorite boys play together. At kicks a soccer ball towards the back fence. It hits the fence and rolls back towards him, Blue and Brutus chasing after it. I'm so happy we adopted Brutus. Blue needed a puppy friend. I place my empty coffee cup on the counter, and open the sliding door to join in the fun. I walk down the steps and Blue immediately brings the soccer ball over and drops it at my feet. I look down at Blue, remembering how he got me through the hardest days of my life. I am thankful that Blake is locked away for at least 25 years. I'm upset I still don't know why he did it.

I kick the ball, and off Blue and Brutus go, trying to get it before it hits the back gate. They fail, as always, but Brutus beats Blue to the ball this time. Brutus brings the ball over and drops it in front of At. He kicks it and moments later we both say "Shit." in unison, as the ball goes over the fence. "I'll go get it." At says, as he jogs towards the back gate. He steps out of the gate to retrieve the ball. About a minute later, he is walking back through the gate, and dropping the soccer ball to the ground. I meet his eyes and give him a bright smile. He starts walking towards me, and I can feel my heart flutter. I fucking love this man. At walks up to me and kisses my forehead. I fucking love his forehead kisses. He looks down and meets my gaze again. "Hey" he says in a soft voice. "Hey", I reply, just as softly. "Are you ready for today?" He asks, his voice deep, and a hint seductive. "Eh, I guess." I shrug playfully. He let's out a low chuckle before calling the boys and walking past me to head inside. I stay there for a moment, recognizing the one silver lining from the worst time of my life. It brought me back to him. I feel my phone vibrate in my pocket. I don't even hesitate to slide my it out. I swipe up to unlock it and laugh at what I see.

Maya: Bride Ass Bitch! You ready for today?? Be there in 20, have a mimosa ready!

As I am thinking of what I am going to respond, another text comes through.

Ryan: PLEASE don't let her have TOO many mimosa's this morning. You remember what happened in Aruba... I don't want to deal with that Maya again. Watch out for my girl please.

I laugh even harder, and immediately respond.

Me: I always do. See you at 3! I'll be the one in the white dress, in case you didn't know.

I switch back to the text with Maya, and type my reply.

Me: Ok, I'll tell Cind to have one ready for you, but pace yourself. No Aruba Situation on my wedding day please.

Maya: No promises ;) See you soon bitch!