It was much later that night, after the long and dreaded funeral. Rachel sat on Ross' couch with his head in her lap and a blanket spread across his body, which had been shaking violently before she had soothed him to sleep. Since the service had started, he had not stopped crying until they were home and away from everyone. Gazing down at his still, momentarily peaceful form, Rachel contemplated that she would be content just taking care of and comforting him and Emma for the rest of her life. And she vowed silently that she would, no matter what.

The next day, Ross sat on his couch apprehensively and alone in the apartment. Rachel had gone to pick up Emma from her mother's place and was likely to return any minute now. He had declined going along with her, because being around anyone but Rachel while he, apparently, "reunited" with his daughter would be more than a little daunting. He did know that either way, this meeting would be hard and emotional, as his son had been buried less than twenty-four hours in the past.

Sure enough, Rachel sauntered in a moment later with a beautiful small toddler in her arms. Ross was enthralled by her beauty and physical similarity to her mother. Rachel set Emma down, and the little girl immediately ran to her father.

"Daddy!" she squealed in delight, and Ross gracelessly caught her in his arms as she ran to him at full force. A knot caught in his throat as he remembered doing the same thing to Ben some time ago.

"Hey...Emma," he stumbled over his words, feeling even more stupid as he caught Rachel smiling encouragingly at him by the door. He looked at his daughter and saw his own eyes, the same ones that had also belonged to Ben. He examined her fresh, young face and came to a realization as to how right this felt. In his arms was a pristine creation that bound the two of them together, further enhancing their certain destiny. Ross' eyes filled with tears as he hugged Emma against him.

"Emma." Rachel noticed his expression, and came over to join them. Upon comprehending that everything was okay, she gently placed a hand on her daughter and lover's back. Then she slid her arms farther around and held them both close.

About an hour later, after having eaten dinner, Ross and Rachel were seated on the couch as they watched their daughter contently play with toys on the floor.

"I can't believe that I thought this would be hard," Ross commented, his eyes not leaving Emma. Rachel brought his hand that she had been holding to her lips, kissing the backs of his fingers.

"Oh, sweetie, I can. But like I said, I have faith in you. I know it's hard to believe that things will be okay again, but little things along the way can help." Ross turned to her and smiled.

"You're right. I don't know what I would do if it hadn't been for you Rachel. Thank you." He said seriously. Rachel smiled back and moved closer to Ross. She slid an arm between his back and the couch and secured it there, looking into his eyes.

"I'll always be here Ross," she said genuinely, sounding serious as well. "Please, always remember that."

"I will. Which is why... he trailed off and fumbled in his pocket for something. Rachel's eyes grew wide, as she could take a hint as to what was about to happen. Needless to say, Ross pulled out a small velvet box and held it in front of her.

"Rachel, these past few days have been...well, hell, for lack of a better word. But because of you, they have also become heaven. You were there for me when I needed someone the most, and unconditionally stuck by me." He paused and swallowed. Rachel squeezed his hand, letting him take his time before he continued. "You awakened old, yet genuine, feelings in me through your comfort and compassion. I can think of no one else who I would want to spend the rest of my life with. This time when I say it, I have never meant it more." He paused again, this time briefly. "Rachel Green, will you marry me?"

Rachel's eyes sparkled and she placed a hand lovingly on the side of his face. "Oh, yes, Ross Geller. A thousand times yes." She leaned forward and kissed him softly on the lips. The kiss grew passionate, sealing the promise once and for all