The next morning, as Noah prepped the car for their trip to the airport, Aiden and Eleanor ran around, saying their goodbyes to everyone.
Their small arms wrapped tightly around each of their loved ones, especially Josie and Lizzie, to whom they promised they'd visit soon.
"Dada," Eleanor's soft voice called out as she ran toward Kai, who crouched down to scoop her up into his arms.
She clung to him, her tiny fingers clutching his shirt as if she didn't want to let go. Aiden soon joined them, wrapping his arms around Kai in a tight embrace.
"When will I meet you again, Dada?" Eleanor mumbled against his chest, her small hands cupping his face.
Her innocent eyes searched his, and Kai felt a lump form in his throat. He glanced briefly at Estrella, who stood nearby, her gaze cast downward, clearly struggling with guilt.
Stunned by the unexpected wave of emotions that overtook him, Kai managed to smile, feeling something in him shift.
"Every day, mini-me's" he said, surprising even himself with the certainty in his voice. "Because I'm coming with you." His declaration sent the twins into excited cheers.
They jumped up and down in his arms, completely overjoyed.
Estrella, taken aback, opened her mouth to object, but seeing the sheer happiness on her children's faces froze her words in her throat.
How could she deny them this moment of joy? The reunion they'd unknowingly craved for so long. She simply looked away, her emotions conflicted.
"Take care of them, and thank you for everything these past years," Damon said, shaking hands with Noah and Oliver.
His tone was sincere, though a tinge of sadness lingered. Stefan, standing beside him, nodded in agreement, his gaze fixed on Estrella. She avoided their eyes, unable to face the painful history they all shared.
Estrella turned to Lexi, hugging her tightly. "You should take the book with you," Lexi suggested, her voice low.
Estrella shook her head with a soft smile. "I don't need it anymore. I only wanted it to save the twins, and now that they're safe, its purpose is done. Anthony's going to lock it away with a spell so no one can misuse it," she explained. The book had been a tool for rescue, not for power, and she wanted no part of its temptations anymore.
As she made her way through the goodbyes, Enzo stood nearby, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Goodbye, my friend. Just know that I am one call away, okay? Thank you again, tiny witch," he said, his voice filled with emotion. Estrella smiled softly, giving him a reassuring nod, but the farewell was bittersweet.
Caroline, looking a little nervous, approached next. "The twins... they've bonded so well with each other. We should plan their meetup soon or Jo and I are going to get our ears chewed out. Just let me know when and where.." she said, her voice trailing off as if searching for the right words.
She hesitated for a moment before continuing, her eyes reflecting years of missed opportunities. "Ella, I know I can't change the past or stop you from leaving, but please... just be careful. That's all I want for you. I'm sorry for everything, for not being there when you needed me the most."
Estrella, surprised by the sincerity in Caroline's voice, smiled softly. She wasn't used to seeing Caroline so vulnerable. "You've got good people around you now, and I'm glad for that. You deserve all the happiness, even if it's far away from here," Caroline rambled, her nervousness clear as she fidgeted.
"Take care of my princess and my teddy bear-give them an extra kiss for me," she added with a half-laugh, making Estrella chuckle slightly.
Just as Estrella was about to turn away, Caroline spoke again, this time with more weight in her voice. "One more thing, and I know it's a lot to ask... but it would mean the world to me if you'd stand by my side on the most important day of my life. Besides, there's no bride without her maid of honor."
YOU ARE READING
Her Purpose || Kai Parker
FanfictionSince the beginning of her life, a mysterious aura surrounded Estrella. It hinted at something special that was meant to happen as she went through her journey. Her path would be filled with family ties, close friendships, moments of joy, deep sadne...
