The Space Between

EPILOGUE

Life has been nothing short of wonderful lately. As I sit cozied up on the couch in our living room, surrounded by close friends, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of contentment. Kylie and I have been living together in our shared apartment in LA for over a month now, and it feels like home in the truest sense.

Tonight, we're having a girls' movie night with Ruby, Dara, Morgan, Sharliz, and Dior. We're watching "Bridesmaids," and the room is filled with laughter and chatter. Our adorable Shih Tzu puppy, Winston, is nestled comfortably between Kylie and me, his little head resting on my lap. I glance over at Kylie, who's been working tirelessly on her first studio album, "Kiss and Tell." She looks relaxed and happy, a sight that fills my heart with joy.

"Can you believe how ridiculous this scene is?" Dior giggles, pointing at the screen where the characters are in the midst of a chaotic bridal shop meltdown.

"I know, right? It's so over-the-top, but I love it," Ruby chimes in, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

Kylie leans in closer to me, her arm wrapping around my shoulders. "I think Winston's enjoying the movie night as much as we are," she whispers, glancing down at our sleepy puppy.

I laugh softly, "He definitely knows how to pick the best spot on the couch." I give Winston a gentle scratch behind his ears, and he responds with a contented sigh.

Dara, sitting across from us, catches my eye. "So, Malia, how was the premiere for 'Shadows Into The Light'? I saw some amazing reviews online."

"It was incredible," I say, my smile widening. "The response has been overwhelmingly positive, which is such a relief."

Sharliz nods enthusiastically. "I can't wait to watch it. Psychological thrillers are one of my favorite genres."

Morgan, who had been quietly munching on popcorn, suddenly perks up. "Speaking of thrillers, have any of you seen 'Gone Girl'? It's such a mind-bender!"

"Yes!" Dara exclaims. "That movie had me on the edge of my seat the entire time."

As the conversation flows, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts in from the kitchen. Ruby had insisted on making a batch earlier, and now the scent is making everyone's mouth water.

"Cookies are ready!" Ruby announces, jumping up to fetch them. She returns with a tray of warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies, and the room erupts in cheers.

We all dig in, savoring the delicious treats. "These are amazing, Ruby," I say, taking a big bite. "You should seriously consider opening a bakery. I bet Bridget would."

Ruby blushes, waving off the compliment. "Maybe one day. For now, I'll just keep spoiling you all."

The night continues with more laughter, shared stories, and the occasional outburst of singing along to the movie's soundtrack. Kylie and I exchange a knowing glance, both of us silently acknowledging how lucky we are to have such wonderful friends and each other.

As the movie winds down and our friends start to gather their things to leave, Kylie pulls me close and whispers, "I love these moments with you. They make everything worth it."

I smile, resting my head on her shoulder. "Me too, Kylie. Me too."

After everyone leaves, Kylie and I tidy up the living room and kitchen. I turn to her, holding up the hoodie I gave her a while back. "You know, I mean every word on this hoodie," she says, her voice soft.

She takes the hoodie from me, reading the sentimental message once more. "I know, and it means the world to me. I love you to the moon and back always," She replies, pulling me into a warm embrace.

We get ready for bed, Winston following us with his tiny paws pattering on the hardwood floor. As we settle under the covers, Kylie wraps her arms around me, closing into a soft kiss. I feel the warmth of her love enveloping me.

"Goodnight, baby," she whispers, her voice filled with tenderness.

"Goodnight, love," I reply, closing my eyes with a smile.

In this moment, everything feels perfect. Life is wonderful, and I wouldn't trade these moments for anything in the world.