Epilogue

Epilogue
Rachael's POV

The backyard was transformed into an enchanting oasis, perfect for an unforgettable dinner party. The tablescape was a masterful blend of elegance and sophistication. It looked more breathtaking with the garden, creating a path to the gazebo.

A soft, warm glow emanated from the candelabras, adorned with creamy white candles and delicate, sparkling crystals. The light danced across the room, casting a magical ambiance. The tables were draped in luxurious, ivory linens, with intricate lace trim adding a touch of vintage charm.

A breathtaking floral arrangement served as the centerpiece, boasting an exquisite mix of fresh flowers in shades of blush, peach, and ivory. To complete the look, the walls were adorned with lush, green garlands, and the room was filled with the sweet, intoxicating scent of blooming flowers.

It took a while to prepare all of this, but I didn't regret it. This was Derek's birthday, and I'd outdone myself this time. It was something I felt proud of because I wanted to give him the best birthday, knowing fully that this would be his first time having a birthday party.

The man had been living a fucking lonely life. "Wow! This is beautiful," a female voice broke my reverie from behind, and I turned to see Regina walking towards Daniel beside her. She was dressed in a beautiful black evening dress, the color complimented her slightly tanned skin. Her hair was in an updo, while a few strands fell over her face on both sides. She looked gorgeous with a wide smile that seemed to brighten up the place. His handsomeness was no different, although I was starting to know the man, he was equally breathtaking. His masculinity and the aura about him made him more attractive and easy to spot out at any event.

"Wow, I can't believe you put all these by yourself. I thought I told you to call me if you needed a hand," she said, instigating a hug.

Daniel only gave me a small nod of recognition. It was fair to say, Derek and Daniel shared few similarities in terms of communication and expression.

"Trust me, if I required help, I could've asked. Besides, it isn't as hard as I expected," I replied, smiling back at her.

It had been three months since we discovered the truth and things were a little awkward, but we tried to walk through it. I still couldn't digest the fact that I had an elder sister all this time when I felt alone. It made me both sad and happy. I had always wanted a happy home, but it felt like those hopes were finally fulfilled.

The hug was less stiff because we've been making progress. We weren't as close as any normal siblings would be, but we were working things out, giving ourselves time to absorb the shock. Regina seemed like a nice person, and I had no doubt that we'd get there someday.

"So where's the celebrant?" She asked, looking around.

I smiled at her question. "Oh, he's probably on his way. I think he'd be here soon but why don't you make yourself comfortable," I said, quickly changing the topic.

The truth was, Derek had zero knowledge that I'd be pulling something like this. It was a surprise, but not the regular surprise because I intend to keep that from the guests as well. It was only a surprise to him. I wanted to be the only one seeing the surprise look on his face once he came back.

"Alright then." Regina said as she settled down, but I felt another presence behind me.

"I guess everyone is here already," Daniel muttered to Regina, but it was loud enough for me to catch on. I turned to see Vivian, approaching us.

I knew Derek's temperament around people, so only a few were invited, and he already seemed to be working on his relationship with his mother.

"Hey, good evening everyone. Oh my God, you really put significant effort, Rachael. This is beautiful," she commented while looking around in awe.

"Thank you, I did try my best, but I can't take all the credit. The maid also gave me a hand," I said, giving her a light hug. She turned her attention on Daniel and Regina, and I glanced at my wristwatch.

A few more people came, including Garvin and on his arrival, the guest's list was complete. Derek should be here by now, so I quickly sat down and waited until faint footsteps caught my attention.

I lifted my gaze, and I was blessed with the sight of the man who made life seem so tolerable to me. His face was blank as he took in the arrangement, the soft glow emanating from the moon made everything look more ethereal. Although he didn't exactly show his thoughts, I could see the look of surprise in his eyes.

A smile tugged the corner of my mouth as the sound of footsteps continued. This time everyone paused to look at him.

"Look who's finally. It took you forever to finally arrive but since it's your birthday and apparently the first birthday you're celebrating, I'll pardon you," Danielle said with a straight face, but I could see the mirth in his eyes.

Derek growled, but a smile curved his lips as he approached me. He leaned down, placed a soft kiss on my lips before I could utter a word.

"I'll be with you all shortly," he said, glancing around the table before heading into the building. Soon everyone mingled among themselves until Derek returned. After a few moments, he addressed the crowd.

"I really wasn't expecting a birthday party, nor did I actually want one, but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate the effort made by my wife and the thoughtfulness of you all taking your time to be present here today. I'd like to say a big thank you, salute!" He raised his drinks and everyone responded with equal energy.

"Who would've thought Draco had this side of him? How rare," the teasing voice of Garvin caught my attention as he walked forward with a smirk. The man looked handsome even in a white shirt and black trousers. His blonde hair was styled back neatly, and his graceful movements made him hard to miss in a room filled with people. The man was simply exquisite.

"How noble of you to grace me with your presence. I also thought the great king of the underworld is too occupied to attend something so mundane," Derek replied, sarcasm dripping from his voice.

I bit my lip to hide my smile but of course Garvin noticed me. He tilted his head to the side as he observed me. "You look more full of life now. Incredible, it's crazy what love can do."

My cheeks burned red in embarrassment, understanding the meaning behind his words. Derek stepped in right on time. "Yeah, that's true, that's why you should try it sometimes. I really can't wait to see the day you actually fall in love Garvin," he said straightforwardly with furrowed brows.

Garvin chuckled, his eyes filled with amusement. "Well, I'm afraid to disappoint, but I'd have to keep waiting," he said matter-of-factly.

Looking at the man, he was only unpredictable, he was also sly, complicated, dangerous, and emotionless. For some reason, I felt shivers down my spine as I thought of this man falling in love. I know for certain that the poor woman would be traumatized, and I could feel pity for whoever would be unfortunate to grab this man's attention.

"You'll never know until you've found the one," Derek responded, looking at me with an intense gaze.

Garvin cleared his voice, his face crunched with disgust. "Seeing that this conversation is definitely not heading in a pleasurable direction, I'd better take my leave," his gaze lingered on me before he calmly walked away.

Alone again, I turned to look at Derek whose gaze was on me the entire time. "You called me your wife," I pointed out, leaning closer to him.

He smiled, tucking my hair behind my ear, "because you are," he took my left hand and kissed my knuckles. My gaze widened when I noticed a beautiful princess cut diamond ring nestled on my finger. The sight made my heart skip a beat. When did he sneak this around my finger?

"I know you love me and I love you too. I wanted to give you a beautiful way but seeing something so rare..." He gave a small nod, indicating the beautiful gathering. He never had his birthday and even though he didn't say it, I knew I had made the day special for him. "I decided to do it now because there's never a perfect time. Before, I had never been this excited to live. You've brought purpose to my life and made my life meaningful. Now, I long to wake up with you in my arms every day."

He leaned down to press a soft kiss on my forehead before he continued. "Everyone I knew feared me and I thought I'd never experience this thing called love, but then you came into my life so unexpectedly. You were bold, fearless, and you challenged me without hesitation. I want to spend the rest of my life with you and I already imagine my life with you and little versions of ourselves playing around and exploring the mansion. I need you in my life Rachael," his voice was laced with emotions that made my heart beat faster.

My eyes became teary as he asked so softly. "Rachael, will you marry?" He asked confidently but I could sense his nervousness.

Tears rolled down my face as I nodded frantically. "Y-yes, I'll marry you. Oh my God!" My voice was above a whisper and I believe the person behind me turned to look at me in shock.

Derek's smile widened and he immediately pulled my closer. I could tell he wanted to swirl me around but. He had to hold himself back because we were still in public. Even that seemed unlike him, which only meant that the man had changed. Instead, he settled for a passionate kiss.

"I love you, and thank you for the beautiful party," his deep voice made my core clenched with pleasure. He took a glass of drink from a passing server and handed it to me.

"Thank you, but I'd have to politely decline," I said, pushing the drink away gently. My heart beat picked up in anticipation as he narrowed his gaze at me. This was it. This was the second surprise I had been planning on.

"What's wrong? Are you feeling a bit under the weather? Or did the preparation drain you?" He asked, looking concerned and bothered.

I shook my head, my gaze locked on his, waiting patiently for him to guess the reason. Seeing my unwillingness to voice out the reason, he tilted his head slightly, his lips pressed into a thin line as he went into deep thoughts. Suddenly, his eyes widened in utter disbelief.

"Are you...?" He seemed uncertain, but his eyes gleamed with excitement.

I nodded frantically, my eyes getting wet again. Derek's eyes lit up, his grin widened reaching his eyes and his mouth hung open. "You are..." This time his voice was filled with unexpressed emotions.

"Yes, I am," I said with certainty.

I gasped in shock as he swept me off my feet, drawing everyone's attention. He hugged me tightly, swirling me around, but as if remembering the revelation, he carefully put me down. "When did you find out?" He inquired, his eyes held emotions that left kg breathless.

"Three days back. Did you remember the constant throwing up and dizziness?" I asked and he nodded with a smile. "I did a test, and it turned out that I was actually pregnant. Although I still need to go to the hospital for further tests. I'm just... I'm so happy that I don't even know how to express it--" my words were cut short as Derek slammed his lips against mine.

I moaned as he deepened the kiss, his tongue fighting mine for dominance. After the kiss, I tried to take a lungful of air.

"Thank you for making me the happiest man. I promise here and now to never hurt you and to never leave you except you tell me to. And even with that, I'll still stay close just in case you change your mind," he said, his voice dripping with sincerity.

I wondered what I did to earn such a man like him. But I knew for certain that I'd love him in this life and even in the next life. I'd never regret loving Derek Arnold.

The End.