Life of the Heir

EPILOGUE

༻·𖥸·༺

SHINOBU TOMIOKA

Life had finally settled into a semblance of normalcy after the tumultuous events that had threatened to tear our world apart.

The Northern Territory was flourishing once again under Giyu's leadership, and the Tomioka Estate buzzed with activity and life.

Everything is in peace...

Quiet and serene.

It was a peaceful morning, the kind that made one grateful for the simple pleasures of existence.

I walked through the gardens, the air crisp and filled with the scent of blooming flowers.

The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow over the estate. It was serene, a stark contrast to the chaos and bloodshed of the past few months.

My heart felt light, a feeling I hadn't experienced in what seemed like forever.

"A life that I always wished for." I whispered as I close my eyes, feeling the soft touch of the wind.

As I strolled through the garden paths, I marveled at the beauty around me. The flowers were in full bloom, vibrant and colorful.

The sound of birds chirping filled the air, their songs a reminder that life goes on, even after the darkest of times.

I reached a bench under a large cherry blossom tree and sat down, enjoying the moment of tranquility.

The estate was quiet, the servants beginning their day with soft murmurs and gentle footsteps.

It was a stark contrast to the nights of tension and fear we had endured...

But then again, it is now over.

My thoughts drifted back to the duke, Giyu, who was already at work, ensuring the security and prosperity of our lands.

His dedication and strength had been the cornerstone of our recovery.

I smiled, thinking of the man I loved and the future we were building together.

Just as I was lost in my thoughts, a voice called out to me.

"Shinobu!"

I turned to see Kanao and Kanae approaching, their faces bright with smiles.

It warmed my heart to see them so happy, free from the shadows that had loomed over us for so long.

"Good morning, sisters," I greeted them with a smile.

"Good morning!" they replied in unison, their spirits high.

We spent the next hour talking and laughing, enjoying each other's company. It was a precious moment, one that reminded me of the importance of family.

As we chatted, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for everything we had overcome.

Later, as the sun climbed higher in the sky, I excused myself and headed back to the mansion.

There was something I needed to do,

Something that had been on my mind for a while.

I made my way to the library, a quiet and comfortable place where I could gather my thoughts.

As I entered the room, I saw Giyu sitting at a desk, engrossed in his work.

His presence was reassuring, a constant reminder of the strength and love that had seen us through the darkest times.

I approached him quietly, not wanting to disturb him.

"Good morning," I said softly.

He looked up, his eyes lighting up with a smile. "Hello, my love"

"How are you?"

Upon hearing such endearment, I feel my cheek grew pink, so I gently took his hand.

"I'm well," I replied, sitting down beside him.

"I was just thinking... about everything we've been through."

"How far we've come."

He squeezed my hand, his touch warm and comforting. "We've been through a lot, haven't we?"

"But we're stronger for it. Together."

I nodded, feeling a swell of emotion. "Yes, together."

We sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the weight of our shared experiences hanging in the air.

Finally, I took a deep breath and decided to share the news I had been holding onto for a while.

"Giyu," I began, my voice trembling slightly.

"There's something I wish to tell you."

He looked at me, concern flickering in his eyes. "What is it, My love?"

"Is something wrong?" he asked, now giving me all his attention.

I shook my head, a smile spreading across my face. "No, nothing's wrong. In fact, it's quite the opposite."

He squeezed my hand gently, waiting for me to continue.

He looked confused and worried.

And at that thought, I soft chuckle manage to escape my lips.

Placing his hand to my cheek, my heart pounding with excitement and anticipation.

He noticed and caress it very gently and softly.

Then I took it once again, but this time—

Placing it to my belly.

For a moment, there was silence.

Anxiety grew as he just stopped and looked at it...

Then, Giyu's eyes widened in surprise and joy. "Shinobu..."

"Are... are you certain?"

I nodded, tears of happiness welling up in my eyes.

"Yes, Giyu..."

"I am~"

A smile broke out across his face, and he pulled me into a tight embrace.

"That's... that's wonderful, Shinobu. I can't believe it."

He rose from his seat, now making me stand up.

He was so tall, and he instantly hugged me tightly, squeezing me lightly yet being careful at the same time.

We held each other, overwhelmed with emotion.

The future we had fought so hard to protect now seemed brighter than ever.

Our family was growing, and with it, our hope and love.

As we stand there, wrapped in each other's arms, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, we would face them together.

The Northern Territory was at peace, and our lives were filled with promise.

Everything was back to normal, but now, it was a new kind of normal...

One filled with love, hope, and the promise of new beginnings.

And as I looked into Giyu's eyes, I knew that our journey was just beginning.

"You are a blessing, My Love."

Giyu placed a chased kiss, then slowly he placed his big and warm hands to my small bump.

"You both are..."

THE END.

˗ˏˋ ⁺ ‧ ₊ ˚ ཐི 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒽𝑒𝒾𝓇 ཋྀ ˚ ₊ ‧ ⁺ ˎˊ˗