A/N: Final Chapter! I hope you like it!

Chapter 21

On Monday, it was time for Serena and Darien to present their project in Sociology class. They were one of the last couples to present and it was surprising to both of them how well it went. Serena displayed their collage on a table while Darien began to explain it. "As you can see, this collage is a silhouette of both of our heads on both sides of the poster coming together in the middle. My silhouette is on the left and Serena's is on the right, but Serena decorated my side and I decorated hers to represent all that we learned about each other. If you're wondering about the big red x in the middle, this represents an issue we came together on called the End It Movement. Sadly, there's about 27 million people trapped who are victims of the human trafficking industry. Before starting this project with Serena I had no idea, but a presentation at her church opened my eyes. Serena is passing out a flyer we made that has various facts and resources you can read on your own time."

"This is kind of a public service announcement and awareness is the first step," Serena explained as she passed out the flyers. "We hope you'll read it instead of just throwing it away and look into how you can help."

"Back to our project," Darien said. "I decorated Serena's side with crosses on the outline of her head because everyone pretty much knows that Serena's faith is important to her. I'd even venture to guess that she's tried to tell each of you about it at some point even if you interrupted her or shooed her away." A few of the students chuckled to themselves. "But a lot of people, like me, judge her because of preconceived ideas we already have about Christianity or other religions. As we did more with this project, I realized Serena's faith wasn't just something she hid behind, but something that truly defines her because of Jesus, the One she puts her faith in. The things I chose to put inside her head represent a few aspects of her character and passions that flow from her faith: roses, pictures of children and her family, and hearts pasted onto sheet music. I would have put more, but her head is a lot smaller than mine." The class laughed.

"The roses, as corny as it is, represent the beauty of her personality that comes from within. The saying that 'every rose has its thorn' defines Serena to a t; even though everyone perceives her to be this perfect Christian girl she's still human and continues to grow despite the hardships that are thrown her way. The hearts represent the love and compassion she has for everyone she meets. I can't tell you how many times I have witnessed her showing love and compassion to EVERYONE, especially those who have not been nice to her including me. The pictures of the children represent her love for children and the child-like innocence and wonder she has. This picture of her family is here because obviously her family means the world to her and they inspire her to be the person she is today. Finally, everything is glued onto sheet music because Serena loves music and is very good at singing; it's printed on a song called 'It Is Well.' I chose this song because this is one of the first songs I heard when I visited her church and the lyrics define Serena's life; no matter what comes her way, good or bad, she can say 'it is well' because she finds her strength and hope in Christ who provides peace and motivation to keep going without giving up. I didn't quite understand it at first, but now that I have experienced it for myself I understand that true strength is found in Christ alone. I'd love to talk to anyone after class about it if you have questions, but that's pretty much it."

Serena smiled at Darien as she moved forward and he moved to the side of the table where their collage was standing. "Like Darien said, I decorated his silhouette and I really tried to convey that there's so much more than meets the eye. I didn't put anything on Darien's outline on purpose because when you first meet Darien it may seem like he doesn't want to let anyone in or to show anything from the inside. It could come off as being arrogant, apathetic, or cold to others and there was a part of me that used to think that about him, but I put a lot on the inside because Darien definitely has a lot of depth to him and so much to offer. I have a giant brain here because there is something in that big head of his after all." The class laughed. "Darien is very intelligent and is so gifted in so many different areas he could literally do anything. If he doesn't know something already he will take his time to learn it if he's invested enough and will become an expert almost overnight because he's just that good at absorbing information and such a great learner.

"I also have some Japanese characters here because Darien recently became a black belt in karate and uses karate as a means to challenge himself physically and mentally; the Japanese translates into strength, endurance, and character because those are the three words I associate with Darien now that I know him better. I also have some music notes scattered around because Darien plays the guitar and writes a little bit of his own music. He won't advertise it, but he's very good despite just teaching himself over the summer. Finally, there's a first aid symbol in the middle of this growing heart in the middle because Darien wants to be a doctor someday and I know he's going to help so many people with the love and compassion I've seen growing in him. He already inspires me so much because of his dedication to all he does and I'm so glad I had this chance to get to know him this year." She gave him a hug as everyone in class applauded them.

"Does anyone have any questions for Serena and Darien?" Mr. Peterson said. One student raised their hand. "Yes Mr. Matthews?"

"I just have a comment," he said mischievously. "I kind of think it would have been more epic if you had a heart in the middle since you guys are dating now. How could you leave that part out?"

The class laughed and some made wolf whistling sounds as Serena blushed and Darien rubbed the back of his neck. "Obviously everyone knows that part already," Darien started as he took Serena's hand in his. "We just really wanted to focus on everything we learned about each other and how we are more alike than we originally thought. Our relationship is just a bonus."

"Darien is right," Mr. Peterson said. "They did a wonderful job presenting the point I have been trying to make all year. Even though we all have our differences, we're all people who have so much to contribute to our society and learning to understand each other helps us learn from each other. Well done." The bell rang. "Thanks for all the great presentations everyone. Remember to study for your final." Serena and Darien were about to leave until Mr. Peterson stopped them. "Would you mind if I kept your poster here for display? I've done this project for so many years and this is one of the best successes I've ever seen."

Darien looked at Serena who shrugged. "Sure," she said as he handed it to him.

"And how are you two today?" Mr. Peterson asked with concern. "Your eye looks a lot better, Darien."

"We're fine," Darien replied. "Even though we had to leave early we still made memories and it's a night we're never going to forget."

"It's amazing how much your faith affects you," Mr. Peterson said in awe. "I'd never be able to do it, but I applaud you for it. If Beryl or Diamond cause any more trouble be sure to let me know. Thank you again for doing such a wonderful job on this project."

"Thank you, Mr. Peterson," Serena said. They left the classroom hand in hand and Darien stopped them before giving her a kiss. Serena smiled at him. "What was that for?"

"That was just for being you. My life has been changed for the better because of God and because of you. I just wanted you to know that."

She caressed his hand. "I feel the same way. You make me so happy and I'm so glad Mr. Peterson put us together."

They walked to Darien's locker so he could get the books he needed for the evening. He closed his locker and took Serena's hand before walking out of the school.

The couple walked to the Crown and found all of their friends sitting at a large booth. Serena and Darien joined them at the ends of the table and joined the various conversations. Andrew and Lita were talking about new recipes while Chad was eating some of Lita's leftover muffins next to Rae who was chattering with Mina and Amy about some new charms she was going to sell at her grandfather's shop.

Darien stopped to enjoy some of Lita's muffins and looked at each of his friends who were all lost in conversation. He thought about how far they had come over the course of the school year. He looked out the window for a moment and happened to see Beryl walk past with her arm looped through Diamond's. She didn't seem to notice him, but he hoped she would find her way someday. He was pulled from his thoughts when someone tapped his shoulder. He looked to see who it was and saw it was Andrew. "Yes?"

"Can I talk to you outside for a moment?" Andrew asked.

Darien followed Andrew outside to a bench and sat beside him. "Is everything ok?"

"Everything's fine," he said quickly. "I've been thinking a lot…"

"That's never good. Last time you had a major idea we both got detention for a month."

"I'm serious," Andrew insisted. "A lot has happened this year and I've learned a lot, especially from you and Serena. I know your faith has changed you and after hearing so much about it I think it's time for a change in me too. I'm ready."

"Does Mina know about this? You know how she feels…"

"I'm ready," he said again. "What do I need to do?"

Darien smiled at him. "You know what to do. Talk to God and tell Him what you need."

Andrew nodded and bowed his head. Darien placed a hand on each of his shoulders while holding hands. "God, I don't know if I'm doing this right, but here it goes anyway. I've seen what you've done for my friends and I know I need You to change me too. I know I'm a great sinner in need of a great Savior and I need You to save me. I'm trusting you to change my life and I'm ready to follow you no matter what it takes. Thank you. Amen."

Darien pulled Andrew into a hug. "I'm proud of you," he said to him.

Andrew grinned excitedly. "Now what do I do? Get a Bible? Join the church? Get baptized? Tell Mina? What do I do?"

"One step at a time," Darien said with a laugh. "Let's head go back inside and if you want to tell everyone that's up to you. You can come to my place later and I can take you step by step."

Andrew practically ran back inside and sat with everyone else while Darien followed. He told everyone what just happened to him and got mixed responses, but all in all they gave him respect especially Mina. While everyone else went back to their conversations Mina listened patiently as Andrew chattered a mile a minute about what happened.

Darien barely noticed that Serena moved to sit beside him until she gave him a kiss on the cheek. He looked down at her and smiled. "What was that for?"

"For you being you." She smiled at him and listened in as Andrew continued talking. Darien smiled because he wouldn't have it any other way. He had an amazing girlfriend who showed him what true love is, he had old friends and new friends who grew up before he even realized it, and so many other blessings. He wouldn't have traded it for anything in the whole world.

Epilogue

Darien came home after a long day at the hospital and slammed the door behind him. He loved being a pediatrician and helping so many families, but it took a lot out of him and he was glad to be home. He turned to hang up his coat until he heard quick footsteps and a familiar voice that brought him so much happiness.

"Daddy!"

Darien turned around and knelt down with open arms to greet his daughter who was running to give him a hug. He hugged her tightly and picked her up. "How's my princess?"

"Happy to see you," four-year-old Rini said. "I made you a picture." She held a piece of paper entirely too close to his face and he took it from her. He held it at reading level and smiled when he saw the stick figures. "There's you, Mommy, me, and baby Tierra."

"I love it," Darien replied before giving her a kiss. He was so thankful to be able to come home to this greeting every night and it was definitely one of his favorite parts of the day. "Where's Mommy?" he asked as he walked into the den and sat them down on the sofa. Suddenly his eyes were covered by a pair of hands. "I wonder who that is. Is it Uncle Andrew or Aunt Mina?"

Rini giggled. "No," she drew out.

"It must be Grandma or Grandpa then," he said resolvedly.

"No," Rini said with a laugh.

Darien smirked. "Can I have a hint?" He lifted his head and waited until he got an unmistakable kiss from the love of his life. "Now I know who this is! It's Mommy!"

Serena came around the sofa and took a seat as Rini maneuvered her way between them. "I'm so happy you finally figured it out." She looked at Rini. "Now you can go brush your teeth before we come tuck you in."

"Aww," she whined. "Can't I open a Christmas present first?"

"Not until tomorrow, love," Serena replied.

"But Briana told me she gets to open a present on Christmas Eve. Why can't I?"

"Because we're not Uncle Andrew and Aunt Mina," Darien said. "When your mother tells you to do something you need to do it, ok Love Bug?"

"Yes, sir." She climbed off of the sofa and headed up the stairs obediently.

Darien interlocked one of his hands with Serena's. He kissed her hand. "I missed you." Darien then bent down and leaned close to her protruding belly. "Daddy missed you too, Peanut" he said before caressing her stomach and kissing it. He felt movement inside and smiled. "She's jumping for joy."

"Yeah, she's been doing that all day." Serena sighed. "How was your day?"

"Hectic as usual," he said as he sat back up and placed an arm around her shoulders. "I'm just glad to be home with the people I love. Anything exciting happen?"

"Well, an anonymous donor gave $1000 to the 127 Network so now we have enough money to fund some scholarships for more people to go on the Orphan Helpers trip to Honduras this summer."

Darien smiled. He was so glad that Serena's dream to launch an adoption ministry in their church was finally coming to life and it brought him so much joy to hear how God was blessing her passion. She spent a few years teaching in an elementary school when they first got married and even though she enjoyed it he knew it wasn't her passion. She stopped teaching when an opportunity at their church opened up for her to develop an adoption ministry and that was how the 127 Network started. She let someone else take over the ministry full time soon after Rini was born so she could be a stay at home mom, but she was still active in helping part time and the church allowed her to work from home. "That's wonderful news, Serena." He sat there staring at her.

Serena smiled at him. "What are you looking at?"

"I'm just thinking about how proud I am of you," he said in awe. Darien rubbed her shoulders. "Any other news?"

"Andy and Mina are coming over with Briana tomorrow for Christmas dinner after church. I'm hoping Chad and Rae will be able to stop by with the twins too."

"Daddy!" Rini called from upstairs.

"Speaking of children," Darien said as he stood up. "We'd better tuck her in."

"She hasn't seen you all day," Serena said. "You go ahead. I'll finish cleaning up down here and then come say goodnight to her."

Darien nodded as he headed up the stairs to the bedroom where the Rini was waiting with The Night Before Christmas in her hands. He sat in the large rocking chair and Rini climbed into his lap before handing him the book. "Are teeth brushed?" Darien asked. Rini replied by grinning widely with all her teeth showing. Darien smiled. "Very good." He opened the book and started reading to her, but he barely got to the third page before she was fast asleep. He quietly put the book away and carefully picked her up to tuck her in bed. Once she was in the bed, he knelt beside her and said a prayer.

"God, you are so good to me," he started. "Thank you for the many blessings you have provided. Please watch over Rini and give her sweet dreams. Help her to continue growing healthy in body, mind, and soul. Someday please open her heart so she knows the importance of following you. And thank you for baby Tierra even though we haven't met her yet. Keep her healthy as she grows in Serena and help her to get all she needs until it's time for us to meet her in a few months. Thank you for placing both these children in our care." He kissed Rini on her forehead. He remained on his knees and continued praying.

"And I know I say it every day, but thank you so much for bringing Serena into my life. Sometimes I still can't believe you've allowed someone as incredible as she is to love someone like me. Thank you for everything she means to me as a wife, a mother, and a friend. Continue to strengthen her so she can continue being a blessing to so many other people."

"Amen," Serena whispered from the door. She came inside the room and kissed Rini good night before turning on the nightlight. She walked out of the room with Darien and closed the door behind them. She hugged Darien tightly. "I love you so much."

"I love you too," he said with a yawn.

"I think it's your bedtime too, Mr. Shields. We have a long day tomorrow."

"Will you tuck me in, Mrs. Shields?" he asked cheekily.

Serena smiled as she took his hand. "Only if you give me a little foot massage first."

Darien smiled back. "I wouldn't have it any other way." Darien let Serena to lead him to their bedroom and smiled as she closed the door. He was more than blessed and continually thanked God for his beautiful collision.

A/N: Thank you so, so much to everyone who took the time to read, review, favorite, and follow this story, especially those who have been patient enough to stay to the end after these last couple of years. I hope to write another story soon, but until then thank you all again.