If Only...

Epilogue

Epilogue

6 Years Later

Looking back on the beginning of my marriage and looking at my beautiful wife and our year old daughter I am so thankful for our life together.

We lived in hiding for six months before we received news that the prostitution ring that was rampant in our area had been dissolved.

We returned home and celebrated our marriage with our families. Our parents forgave our elopement, but we did have a bug celebration that included the renewal of our vows on our one year anniversary. That was also the time when we went on a real honeymoon, although our Vegas hiatus was considered one.

Our marriage was not a normal one for the first year but that year created a friendship that can not be broken.

Last year we welcomed our little bundle of joy, Ella Rose into the world. Catherine was scared about becoming a mother but she has really flourished while caring for our baby.

Speaking of Catherine, she returned to school to obtain a degree in counseling. She started a group for women who have seedy pasts. Not only has she touched so many lives but she also has been able to help herself heal from her own past.

As for me I continued my office and most of my clients returned. Some chose to stay where I recommended them while I was away, but most seemed to welcome me back with various but open arms.

There were many questions during our absence, but the people of our church welcomed us back. They have forgiven Catherine for her sins and she has forgiven theirs.

The Lord has been gracious though our time of healing and as I sit here sipping my cup of coffee I couldn't think of how life could be better. That is until Catherine came up and sat in my lap.

She kissed me softly, "Hey baby" she whispered in my ear.

"Hey you, what's up?" I asked, as a grin spread across my face.

"I have a surprise."

"And what would that be?"

"Come inside and find out."

I followers into our kitchen where a cake was set up. It read 'Congratulations Daddy'. It took me a second to realize what was happening.

"Does that mean-" Catherine cut me off.

"We're having another one!" I hugged her and could not believe my blessings.

Correction to an earlier thought, right now in this moment celebrating with my wife, my daughter, and my unborn child I could not be happier.

THE END

Hey guys! So, this is it! I have loved working on this story and your encouragement has been appreciated. I loved reading your comments. I know I put this story on hold multiple times without telling anyone, but to those who have stuck with me I am very grateful. Much love and God bless.