"I know I'll never see you all accomplish all that I know you will." Meg started, looking at the camera, "That is my fate. And I've accepted that. I just hope you all can forgive me for having you in spite of that."
She tucked her hair behind her ears, "I guess I should start with my oldest. Echo Lark. Gods, you're already gorgeous. And you sing so beautifully. I love singing with you. You're going to grow up to be the kindest, most generous, most compassionate person in existence because thats who your father is. And I've been told by some reliable sources that that is who I am. Kind, and generous." She gave a little laugh, looking down at the floor. "I want you to know that I love you. I believe that you will be amazing. I hope you never lose that sweetness that I already see in you. The love for your siblings that you show. You're gonna outshine everyone, my little Lark."
She cleared her throat, "Anastasia Maria, I already know that you're going to be the girly one. You're so emotional, so…full of life. You take after me in many ways, but I hope you never know the heartaches that I did. You're going to spend your life as the other half of a balancing act with your twin, so remember that there is a time to lean toward and a time lean away in order to keep the balance. You're also gorgeous, all of kids are, so if I forget to say that for any of the rest of you, there it is. You're gorgeous and handsome."
"Aurora Avalon, you are going to have to be careful. You got your Papa's moodiness, his temper. Remember that darkness cannot be perceived if there is not first light to compare it to. But also, sometimes what people need is a good shadow in which to hide until it is safe once more. You're strong already, tough. You want to run and play and you are a real Papa's girl. Don't forget to show your daddy some love." She smiled, "You're going to dominate."
She took a sip of water, "Declan…" She looked upset, "You're my special boy. You're going to teach these girls how much they can love. Just remember to return that love." She seemed to want to say more, but she shook her head and glanced back down before looking up, a truly joyous smile on her face.
"Riley, my darling, we celebrated your first birthday yesterday. I fear that I won't see anymore. And I'm sorry that I have to leave you and your father." She wiped some tears away, "But I love you. I love all of you. And the beautiful thing is that you have these kids that are your family as well. You have family. My children. I will always love my children."
The video ended.
Travis let out a shaky breath and rubbed his eyes with the heels of his hands.
"Daddy? Was that really my mommy?" Riley asked, blinking at the screen.
Travis looked down at his six year old song, "Yeah, kiddo, that was your mommy."
"She was really pretty." He climbed into Travis' lap.
"That she was. And she loved you. She would sing to you all the time."
"Do you have videos of that?" Riley looked up at him with big blue eyes.
Travis nodded, "Somewhere, I'll look for them." He carried his son to his bed and tucked him in.
"Are they really my siblings?"
"Half-siblings, yes." Travis answered, smoothing his son's wild hair.
"We should show them this video, too." Riley said, smiling up at his dad.
Travis smiled back, "Next time we visit, we'll do just that. Goodnight, Riley. I love you."
"Love you too, Daddy."