Beyond The Lie

Epilogue: Heart Full

7 years later.

Adeline.

As I lay in bed, my slender body swollen with my third pregnancy, now in its ninth month, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the life I'd built with Eryx. Seven years had passed since our whirlwind romance began, and our lives were now filled with the joy and chaos of parenthood.

Morning sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of our luxurious two-story house, casting a warm glow over the sleek, modern design. I loved our home, with its perfect blend of elegance and comfort. The stunning artwork adorning the walls, the rich, dark hardwood floors, and the plush cushions and soft throws all combined to create a sense of warmth and coziness that I cherished.

As I gazed around our beautiful home, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. This was my happy place - surrounded by the people and things I loved. And soon, our little family would be growing again, bringing new joy and excitement into our lives.

Just as I was drifting off to sleep, I heard tiny footsteps outside my room. The door creaked open, and my heart swelled with love as I saw my little Aldrich, his chiseled features and piercing blue eyes still sleepy, his messy brown hair sticking up in every direction. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and whispered, "Mommy," as he climbed onto the bed.

I smiled, wrapping my arms around him, feeling his small body snuggle into my side. "Good morning, sweetie," I whispered, breathing in the sweet scent of his hair. Soon, his soft breathing indicated he was fast asleep, and I felt my heart fill with love and contentment.

But my peaceful moment was short-lived. Just then, the door burst open, and my energetic Valencia bounced into the room. "Mommy! Mommy!" she exclaimed, her bright green eyes shining with excitement, her long, curly brown hair bouncing with each movement. Her athletic build was evident even at her young age, and I couldn't help but smile at her infectious energy.

As I watched Valencia bounce into the room, I couldn't help but smile at the miniature version of her father that stood before me. She had inherited Eryx's love for adventure and analytical mind, and at just six years old, she was already enthusiastic about her father's cases and martial arts training. I had lost count of the number of times she had begged Eryx to take her along on his investigations, and I knew he was delighted to have his little "partner" by his side.

"Good morning, sweetie," I said, smiling at Valencia's energetic entrance. She slowed her pace, examining Aldrich's sleepy face. "Is he still sleeping?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Aldrich stirred, yawning, and Valencia giggled. "He's awake!" she exclaimed. Just then, Eryx walked into the room, a warm smile on his face. He gently patted Aldrich's back, his eyes crinkling at the corners.

"Hey, little man," he whispered, his voice low and soothing. Aldrich smiled sleepily, snuggling deeper into my side, and I felt a surge of love for my little family.

As I lay in bed, I smiled at Eryx, who was taking time off from his successful investigation company to be with me as we awaited the arrival of our new baby. My heart swelled with love for this man, who always put our family first.

"Good morning," Eryx said, kissing my lips. "How's my beautiful wife doing today?" His eyes sparkled with affection, and I felt my heart flutter.

"I'm feeling amazing, handsome," I replied, smiling sweetly up at him. "Just a little anxious to meet our new addition." Eryx chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, and I couldn't help but laugh along with him.

"I'm sure it won't be long now," he said, reassuring me. "In the meantime, I'll go get you some breakfast. What would you like?" I thought for a moment before responding, "Something light, maybe some toast and fruit?"