Chapter 222 Epilogue
Chapter 222 Epilogue
Kristen's POV
"It's a girl," the midwife announces, pulling the child out of me, leaving me exhausted and perspiring, helpless on the bed. All the pains wear out from me once the woman places the crying child in my arms.
Baby number two.
I smile through my tears as I kiss the child.
Shortly after, Calhoun and Nana Joyce enter the room to take a look at our newborn.
Calhoun, his eyes filled with warmth, approaches me and the baby. "She's beautiful, just like her mother," he says, his voice filled with affection. Nana Joyce stands beside us, a smile playing on her lips.
"Our little girl," I murmur, my eyes shining with a mix of exhaustion and joy as I look at Calhoun.
He gently takes the baby into his arms, cradling her with utmost care. "Hello, my princess," he coos, his deep voice soothing the newborn. "You've got the best mom in the world right here."
Nana Joyce, her eyes brimming with tears of happiness, adds, "She's a blessing, Kristen. A beautiful blessing."
Calhoun looks down at the baby, his expression tender. "What should we name her?" he asks, a playful glint in his eyes.
After a moment of quiet contemplation, I suggest, " How about Elara? It means 'bright, shining star.""
Calhoun smiles, nodding in agreement. "Elara. It's perfect. Welcome to the world, Elara."
As the sun dips below the horizon, Calhoun transforms our home into a lively celebration, eager to welcome newborn Elara. Decorations on walls, aroma of delicious food wafting, joyous atmosphere. Aiden, just a year and four months old, senses the excitement, infectious laughter escaping him.
"Look at him, Kristen. Aiden is thrilled to have a little sister," Calhoun remarks, eyes sparkling with pride.
I smile, watching from indoors as the celebration continues. "Heartwarming to see his enthusiasm."
As night goes on, Calhoun ensures close friends and pack members celebrate the arrival of Elara in a joyous occasion. Laughter echoes, music becoming the celebration's soundtrack. Aiden, nestled in great grandmother's arms, observes the merriment with wide-eyed curiosity.
Amidst the celebration, Calhoun receives news. Sapphire just gave birth to twins, two boys.
With the information reaching us, sadness takes over Calhoun's eyes. Because it's hurtful that Bruce isn't alive to see this.
"Bruce's legacy lives on," Calhoun shares, eyes meeting mine. "Two boys. I'll make sure they know about their father and the bond we shared."
Nodding, I appreciate Calhoun's commitment to preserving Bruce's memory. "Thank you, Calhoun. This will mean a lot."
Meanwhile, Sapphire's arrival with newborn twins casts a bittersweet shadow. She approaches me with remorseful expression, eyes already apologizing for harsh words and hateful actions that strained our friendship.
"I'm sorry, Kristen. I didn't mean to hurt you," Sapphire implores, and hurriedly looks away when I hold her gaze. I can tell she's fearing to meet my eyes.
Her apology is sincere, but the wounds from our fallout are still fresh. Acknowledging. Her with a nod, I silently recognize the need for space. Because the hurt still lingers, fractures in once-strong friendship seem irreparable.
Maddy, on the other hand, remains supportive but at
a distance. She has her own life to deal with. But our closeness we once shared feels like a distant memory
now.
For days, I've felt something missing, a nagging
feeling deep inside me. It's not a mystery; I know it's because my mother, who's a threat to us, is in prison
far away.
"Calhoun," I say, breaking the heavy silence between us. His usually strong eyes soften, understanding the seriousness of what I'm about to ask.
"I want to ask you for a favor," I say, the weight of my words hanging in the air.
He gets serious this time, "Yes, go ahead," he urges
me.
Taking a deep breath, I dive into my mixed-up feelings. "My mother, despite all the bad things she's done, I can't shake the feeling that she's suffered
enough. Even after what she did to my father."
Calhoun narrows his eyes a bit, as if trying to understand me. "Kristen, she killed your father. Her actions are unforgivable."
"I know," I reply, pain and determination in my
voice. "But she's paying in prison. Maybe, just maybe, she could have a chance at a different life, away from us."
Calhoun's jaw tightens, skepticism written on his face. "Kristen, releasing her is too risky. She's a danger to you, Aiden and Elara."
"I'm not asking her to come here," I explain, pleading for him to see beyond what I'm asking. "She
won't be allowed near our home or the pack. I hate her for what she did, but I want a clear conscience. If she could start anew, maybe she'll change, either for the better or worse. But at least, I won't feel the weight of her suffering on my conscience." Calhoun stays silent for a moment, our eyes locked. I can see the conflict in him, torn between protecting me, our kids, and understanding my complicated
feelings.
"Kristen, it's not that simple," he finally says, his voice measured. "Releasing her poses risks we can't predict. I can't jeopardize the safety of my family."
"I get it, Calhoun," I say, frustration in my words. " But I need to do this. I need to know I've done everything I can to find peace within myself. It's not about her; it's about me."
He sighs, conflicted. "I can't promise it'll be easy or without consequences. But if this is what you need, I'll make it happen."
Relief washes over me, grateful for Calhoun's understanding. "Thank you. I know it's not a simple request, but it means a lot to me."
As Calhoun leaves to arrange things, I'm left alone
with the weight of my decision. My mother, a shadow of the past, will soon have a chance at a different life. It's a risk, but I'm willing to take it. Her actions won't fade, but maybe, just maybe, this step could create a small change in the sea of consequences.