Epilogue

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The woman opened her eyes, gasping and taking a large breath. She sat up, her fingers brushing the soft material. She stood, finding that she was standing on a cloud. She was barefoot, and she was also clean. Her face was soft, and her green eyes glowed in the light. Her black shirt was loose, and her black pants were unstained.

Everything seemed like a mix of orange and yellow from the sun, and white from the clouds. There was a glow behind her, and she slowly turned around, covering her eyes for a moment.

"Whoa."

There in front of her was a large golden gate, and it seemed to be shining. The was light glowing from behind it, and she took a few steps forward before pausing. She wanted to go, but she couldn't help but feel cautious. What if it was a trap? Was that even possible and Heaven?

Was she even in Heaven?

"It's not a trap, Linda," said the smooth voice of a woman. "You made it."

Linda's eyes widened as the gated opened, and a woman stepped out. She looked the same like she did all those years ago: curly black hair, red pink lips, high cheekbones, dim green eyes, and a kind face. She was wearing a blue dress that seemed to be lifted as she walked on the clouds.

"M-Mother?"

Linda started running, tears pooling out of her eyes. She hugged her mother tightly, crying in relief. Her mother smiled warmly and embraced her daughter, happy to see her again.

"You've grown so much," Caralinda said in awe, pulling back to inspect her daughter. "My little girl has grown into a woman, and she fell in love."

Linda's face burned red with embarrassment. Caralinda laughed lightly. "Do not feel bad for falling in love, my dear."

Linda put a piece of hair behind her ear. "I am not," she said. "It was the best thing I ever did."

"Oi, I think I deserve a hug, too."

Linda looked over Caralinda's shoulder to see Allan walking out of the gate and going down the stairs, arms spread out wide. He was wearing a loose white shirt and white pants, his hair slicked back and not in a mess for once.

"Allan!" she cried, jumping and giving him a bear hug. "I'm sorry. I'm so sorry for not believing you."

"Yeah, you're okay. Do me a favor and let go because I... can't... breathe!" Allan wheezed. his face turning red.

Linda mumbled a quick, "Oops," and let him go, brushing herself off. Allan smirked, stepping out of the way. Linda couldn't believe who she was seeing.

"Marian."

Marian was gliding down the steps wearing a loose white gown. She was barefoot, and her dark curls were down and on her shoulder. Her red lips curled up into a small smile, her blue eyes glimmering with tears. When she approached Linda, she put her hands on her shoulders.

"Hello, sister."

Linda choked back a cry as she embraced her best friend, squeezing her eyes shut and letting her arms get wrapped around her neck. Marian hugged Linda tightly, smiling warmly. It felt good to see her best friend again after a long time. Now they were together again.

"It's so good to see you," Linda croaked, breaking the hug and giving Marian air.

She laughed quietly. "Likewise," she said. "But I think it's time we head inside. The Almighty is waiting for you."

Linda took a few breaths, about to follow everyone inside until she heard Guy's voice from down below:

Ready.

She immediately looked down, smiling when she saw him looking up. He looked like a wreck, but he was still her Guy of Gisborne.

"He found my star," she whispered.

Marian stood next to her, looking down through the clouds. A whisper of a smile played at her lips. "You have changed him," she pointed out. "You did what I never could."

"Yes," Linda said. "Yes, I did."

Allan and Caralinda exchanged a look, smirking.

"Linda, it's time," Caralinda said.

Linda glanced from Guy to her mother, and she looked worried. "Will I ever be able to see him again?"

Marian nodded. "You're an angel, now, Linda. You'll be able to watch him from above. Protect him."

"I plan to," Linda said, putting her arm around Marian's shoulder. "I think I'm ready to go inside."

Caralinda nodded, stepping to the side. Marian and Linda went up the steps, standing next to Allan and Caralinda.

"Together?" Linda asked.

Allan nodded. "Together."

With a breath, they all walked through the gates. As soon as she stepped through, Linda felt herself get lifted, and wings sprouted painlessly from her back. The others smiled and revealed their wings also lifting in the air.

"Welcom to Heaven, home of the Almighty and the angels."

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