EPILOGUE

8 years Later

EPOV

I stood on the patio, leaning against the railing, watching the sun dip low over the horizon. The warm evening breeze swept through the backyard, carrying the sounds of Kane's excited cheering as he watched the hockey game on TV. He was six years old and already obsessed with the game. Not that I could blame him—it was in his blood. The team Jasper coached was playing tonight, and Kane was completely engrossed, jumping up and down in front of the screen like he was the one on the ice.

Rosalie sat nearby, her hand intertwined with Emmett's as they watched him, a small smile tugging at her lips. She caught my eye and chuckled, shaking her head. "He's a chip off the old block."

I chuckled along with her. "Yeah, he is."

At thirty-eight, I felt like I had lived a lifetime already—between the hockey career, the highs and lows of life, and now, the life I had with Bella and our kids. I couldn't have imagined this kind of happiness back when I was playing games and chasing goals. This—being here, with my family—was everything I hadn't known I needed.

"Daddy!" Lucy, my four-year-old daughter, came running over, her tiny hands cupped together as she called to me, her excitement impossible to miss. "Look!"

I crouched down as she skidded to a stop in front of me, her face lit up with joy as she showed me the little ladybug resting in her palm.

"Oh, wow," I said, feigning astonishment. "It's beautiful—just like you."

She giggled, her curls bouncing as she turned to run back toward the garden, her little voice filling the backyard with laughter.

Bella stepped out onto the patio, her belly swollen with the life of our third child. Our daughter. I could hardly believe it sometimes, looking at her—how far we'd come, how much we'd overcome. The cancer hadn't returned, and every day felt like a gift. Bella was healthier than ever, and she was checked regularly, just in case. We didn't take anything for granted. Not anymore.

She clapped her hands, calling out to the kids. "Dinner's ready!"

I watched her as she stood there, glowing in the evening light, her hand resting on her stomach as she waited for the kids to come in. She was my everything. My heart swelled with love and pride as I stood, making my way over to her.

When I reached her, I couldn't help but pull her in for a kiss, my hand resting gently on her waist. It was soft but deep, full of everything I felt for her.

She blinked up at me, a teasing smile playing at her lips. "What was that for?"

I shrugged, brushing a lock of hair from her face. "I just love my wife."

Her eyes softened as she gazed up at me, and I couldn't help but let my hand fall to her stomach, feeling the gentle kick of our baby girl. The sensation brought a smile to my face every time. "I have everything I've ever wanted."

Bella shook her head, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Not true."

I raised an eyebrow, confused. "Oh? What am I missing?"

Bella's smile widened as she leaned in close, her lips brushing my ear. "You don't have dessert yet."

I chuckled, pulling back to meet her gaze. "Is that so?"

She nodded, her eyes twinkling. "Mhmm. I made your favourite—apple pie."

"Is apple pie code?" I asked, pressing a kiss to her forehead.

Bella laughed, swatting my arm playfully. "No, you goof. It's actual apple pie. Though..." She trailed off, her eyes darkening slightly as she looked up at me through her lashes. "Maybe we can have a different kind of dessert later."

I growled low in my throat, pulling her closer. "I like the sound of that."

Her smile softened as she rested her head against my chest, her hand resting on our baby bump. "I can't wait to grow old with you."

I kissed the top of her head, holding her close as the sounds of our kids playing filled the air around us. "Neither can I."

In that moment, standing on the patio of the home we'd built, with our children running around and our baby on the way, I realized that no matter what life had in store for us, we would face it together. I had everything I'd ever dreamed of—and more.

And for the first time in my life, I was truly at peace.

"Mommy! Daddy!" Lucy's voice called out, interrupting our moment. "We're hungry!"

Bella giggled, stepping back. "Duty calls."

I nodded, following her into the house. The smell of roast chicken and vegetables filled the air, making my stomach rumble. Kane was already at the table, practically vibrating with excitement as he recounted every play of the game to Rosalie and Emmett.

As we sat down to eat, I couldn't help but marvel at the scene. Everyone I love here. Rosalie laughing as Emmett rests his hand on her own swollen stomach, teasing my son with his own hockey expertise. Bella helping Lucy scoop vegetables onto her plate with the promise of dessert if she eats them.

I watched as Bella settled into her chair, wincing slightly as she adjusted her position. She caught my concerned glance and gave me a reassuring smile. I knew the pregnancy was taking its toll, but she was as radiant as ever.

"So, Kane," I said, turning to my son. "What was your favourite part of the game?"

His eyes lit up, fork pausing midway to his mouth. "Uncle Jasper's team scored in the last minute! It was so cool, Dad! The forward did this awesome spin move and then—"

"Whoa there, buddy," I chuckled, holding up a hand. "Save some excitement for your vegetables."

Kane wrinkled his nose but dutifully took a bite of broccoli. Lucy, not to be outdone, dramatically chomped on a carrot, earning a laugh from everyone at the table.

As dinner progressed, Bella made another face I didn't like the look of.

"You okay baby?" I ask her.

"Your daughter is just.. ahh!" she gasps clutching her stomach.

I immediately tensed, my hand reaching for Bella's. "Bella? What's wrong?"

She took a deep breath, her face contorting in pain. "I think... I think it might be time."

The table fell silent for a moment before erupting into a flurry of activity. Rosalie was on her feet in an instant, already reaching for her phone to call the hospital. Emmett stood up, his usual jovial demeanor replaced with a look of determination.

"Alright, game time," he said, clapping his hands together. "Kane, Lucy, you're coming with Aunt Rose and me. We'll meet your parents at the hospital."

I nodded gratefully at my brother and sister-in-law as I helped Bella to her feet. She leaned heavily against me, her breath coming in short gasps.

"But I want to see the baby!" Lucy pouted.

"You will," I kneel down to her level, "we have to go get her. You'll get to see her soon, I promise."

Lucy's eyes widened with understanding, and she nodded solemnly. "Okay, Daddy. I'll be a good helper for Aunt Rose."

I smiled, quickly kissing her forehead before turning back to Bella. Her face was pale, a thin sheen of sweat already forming on her brow.

"Edward," she whispered, gripping my arm tightly. "It's happening so fast."

I tried to keep my voice calm as I guided her towards the door. "It's okay, love. We've done this before, remember? We've got this."

As we made our way to the car, I could hear Rosalie behind us, efficiently organising the kids and Emmett. I silently thanked whatever higher power was listening for our family's support.

The drive to the hospital was a blur of red lights, Bella's laboured breathing, and my own racing thoughts.

Out of our three children, Daisy came the quickest. Cocooned in love I watch Bella snuggle the baby on the hospital bed with a warm sense of disbelief. From how we started to here… unbelievable.

"You did amazing," I kiss her head, "she has the same nose as Lucy."

Bella smiled tiredly, her eyes never leaving our newborn daughter's face. "She's perfect, Edward. Just perfect."

I couldn't argue with that. Daisy was a miracle, just like her siblings. Her tiny fist was curled against Bella's chest, her rosebud mouth working in her sleep. I gently stroked her downy head, marveling at how something so small could make my heart feel so full.

"Want to hold her?" Bella asked, already shifting to pass Daisy to me.

I nodded, carefully cradling our daughter in my arms. She stirred slightly, her eyes fluttering open for a moment. I caught a glimpse of deep blue—eyes that would likely change to match Bella's chocolate brown or my green in the coming months.

"Hey there, little one," I whispered, rocking her gently. "Welcome to the family."

"She's so small in your arms," she smiles tired, "I love watching you hold our babies."

I smiled softly at Bella, feeling a swell of emotion in my chest. "And I love holding them. Each time feels like a miracle."

A gentle knock on the door interrupted our moment. Rosalie peeked her head in, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "There are two very eager siblings out here dying to meet their new sister. Are you up for visitors?"

Bella nodded, adjusting herself on the bed. "Of course. Bring them in."

I carefully passed Daisy back to Bella just as Kane and Lucy burst into the room, their faces alight with wonder. Emmett followed close behind, his usual grin in place.

"Is that her?" Kane asked, his voice hushed as he approached the bed.

Bella nods ushering them onto the bed beside her, giving them each a kiss on the head. Lucy holds a drawing and Kane a stuffed bear.

"Can I see her," Lucy beams up at me, "she's my best friend."

Bella exchanges a look of love with me.

I smile, gently leaning down closer so Lucy can get a closer look from beside Bella on the bed. "Of course you can see her, sweetheart. This is your little sister, Daisy."

Lucy's eyes widen as she peers at the tiny bundle in Bella's arms. "She's so small!" she whispers in awe.

Kane leans in too, his usual boisterous energy tempered by the solemnity of the moment. "Can I touch her?"

"Very gently," I nod, guiding his hand to Daisy's tiny fist.

As Kane's finger brushes against Daisy's hand, her tiny fingers instinctively curl around his. His face lights up with wonder. "She's holding my finger!"

"She knows her big brother," Bella says softly, her eyes glistening with happy tears.

Lucy holds up her drawing proudly. "I made this for you, Daisy."

"It's beautiful," Bella whispers, "did you do this while waiting?"

"Yeah," she nods, "Aunty Rosie let me use her special crayons."

"She looks like an alien," Kane suddenly says, his intrusive thought winning.

I can't help but chuckle at Kane's blunt observation, ruffling his hair affectionately. "She's brand new, buddy. She'll look more like us in a few weeks."

Bella laughs softly, shaking her head. "Kane, remember when we talked about using our inside thoughts?"

Kane nods sheepishly. "Sorry, Mom. She's actually kinda cute... for an alien."

Lucy gasps dramatically. "She's not an alien! She's our sister!"

"Alright, alright," I intervene, sensing an impending sibling squabble. "How about we let Mom and Daisy rest for a bit? We can come back later."

Rosalie steps forward, her motherly instincts kicking in. "Come on, you two. Let's go get some lunch. We can bring something back for your parents."

"Will your baby look like an alien too?" Kane points at her.

Rosalie laughs, patting her belly. "Probably, for a little while. But I bet you'll think he's pretty cute too."

As Rosalie ushers the kids out, Emmett lingers behind. He comes over to the bed, his eyes soft as he looks at Daisy. "She's beautiful, you guys. Congratulations."

"Thanks, Em," I say, clapping him on the shoulder.

"You did good, little brother," he grins, then turns to Bella. "And you, superwoman. How are you feeling?"

Bella smiles tiredly. "Exhausted, but happy. So, so happy."

Emmett nods, understanding in his eyes. "Well, we'll let you rest. We'll be back later with some real food. Hospital stuff is terrible."

After Emmett leaves, I settle into the chair beside the bed.

"I love you," Bella says as Daisy rests peacefully in her arms.

I reach out and take Bella's hand, squeezing it gently. "I love you too. More than I could ever express."

We sit in comfortable silence for a few moments, both of us watching Daisy's tiny chest rise and fall with each breath. The quiet beeping of the hospital monitors fades into the background as we bask in the glow of our new addition.

"Can you believe this is our life now?" Bella whispers, her eyes never leaving Daisy's face. "Three beautiful children, a home filled with love... sometimes I feel like I'm dreaming."

I smile, bringing her hand to my lips for a soft kiss. "If it's a dream, I never want to wake up."

Bella's eyes meet mine, filled with so much love it takes my breath away. "Remember when we first met? Did you ever imagine we'd end up here?"

I shake my head.

"Nah I thought you were going to realise I was just some meathead jock and run off with someone smarter," I smirk, "I never thought you'd marry me yet alone make me a dad."

Bella laughs softly, careful not to disturb Daisy. "You were never just some meathead jock to me, Edward. You were always so much more."

I feel a warmth spread through my chest at her words. Even after all these years, Bella still has the power to make me feel like that awestruck young man who first fell in love with her.

"I'm glad you saw past the hockey player exterior," I say, stroking her cheek gently. "You've given me more than I ever thought possible."

Bella leans into my touch, her eyes heavy with exhaustion but still shining with love. "We gave each other this life, Edward. Together."

As if on cue, Daisy stirs in Bella's arms, letting out a tiny whimper. Bella instinctively shifts, ready to nurse her. I stand to help in awe of my world as she feeds our daughter.

"Your boobs are huge," I whisper out loud.

"Guess we know where Kane gets it from," she scoffs.

I chuckle softly, shaking my head. "Sorry, love. I couldn't help myself."

Bella rolls her eyes playfully, but there's a hint of a smile on her lips. "You're incorrigible, you know that?"

"And yet, you love me anyway," I tease back, leaning in to kiss her forehead.

"God help me, I do," she sighs dramatically, but her eyes are twinkling with mirth.

We fall into a comfortable silence as Daisy continues to nurse. I watch in awe, marvelling at the bond between mother and child. It's a sight I've seen before with Kane and Lucy, but it never fails to leave me breathless.

She never fails to leave me breathless.

BPOV

The room was quiet, the hum of machines the only sound breaking the stillness. I sat in the old, familiar armchair by the window, my body weak and frail, worn out from the years. My son, Kane, sat beside me, his hand in mine, his presence a comfort. I could feel the end nearing, but I wasn't afraid.

Not anymore.

It had been a year since Edward passed, and it was still the worst year of my life. Every day since he'd been gone had felt like a struggle, a fight to stay tethered to the world when my heart wasn't in it anymore. I missed him—God, I missed him with everything I had. But the cancer, which had returned in my fifties, had been fought back once again, and I'd held on. I'd held on because Edward had always been my strength, my reason. But now?

Now I was ready to join him.

I smiled softly, looking out the window, my mind drifting back through the years, to the life we had lived together. The house we had made our home, the love that had filled every corner of it. The laughter, the tears, the fights, the passion.

I could still remember the feel of his hands on me, the way he'd hold me close, like he'd never let go. I could hear his laughter, the way it rumbled through him whenever he'd tease me. The way his eyes would light up when he saw our children running around, their giggles filling the air. I could hear his voice in my ear, soft and loving, telling me I was his everything. And I believed him, because he had been mine, too.

Even now, as the days grew shorter, I could still feel his presence around me. In the echoes of our shared memories, in the faces of our children, our grandchildren. He was still with me, and I knew he always would be.

But God, how I wanted to be with him again. To hold him, to hear his voice, to feel his arms wrapped around me one last time.

I closed my eyes, my fingers tightening around Kane's hand. My sweet boy. He had Edward's heart and my stubbornness, and I knew he would be okay, even after I was gone.

"Mumma?" Kane's voice was soft, his grip on my hand gentle but strong.

I opened my eyes, smiling up at him. His face was so familiar, so much like Edward's, it brought a lump to my throat. I didn't have much time left, but that was okay. I was ready.

"I'm okay," I whispered, my voice weak but filled with love. "I'm ready."

Kane nodded, his eyes glistening with tears. "I know. I love you."

I squeezed his hand, my heart full. "I love you too, sweetheart. Always. Please… take care of my girls."

Kane nodded, his voice thick with emotion. "Of course, Mom. Lucy and Daisy will be okay. We'll take care of each other, just like you and Dad taught us."

I smiled, feeling a wave of peace wash over me. My children were grown now, with families of their own. They would carry on, keeping our legacy of love alive.

"Your father..." I began, my voice barely above a whisper. "He's waiting for me, you know."

Kane's eyes softened, a small smile tugging at his lips despite the tears. "I bet he is. He never could stand to be away from you for too long."

I chuckled softly, the sound turning into a weak cough. Kane quickly reached for the glass of water on the nightstand, helping me take a small sip.

"Thank you, sweetheart," I murmured, settling back against the pillows - exhausted.

"I hope he's watching the hockey 24/7," he says through his tears, "and that… that he'll…"

He can't finish the words.

I reached out, cupping Kane's cheek with my trembling hand. "He'll be there to greet you too, someday. But not for a long time, you hear me? You've got so much life left to live, my sweet boy."

Kane nodded, leaning into my touch. "I know, Mom. I just... I'm going to miss you so much."

"I'll always be with you," I whispered, feeling my strength beginning to fade. "In your heart, in your memories. Just like your father has been with me this past year."

I could feel it now, the pull of something beyond this world. It was gentle, warm, inviting. Like coming home after a long journey.

"Kane," I said, my voice barely audible now. "Raise your babies. Be good to your gorgeous wife."

He nodded, tears flowing freely now. "I will, Mom. I promise."

I smiled, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. My vision was starting to blur, but I could swear I saw a familiar silhouette in the corner of the room. Tall, broad-shouldered, with that unmistakable messy hair.

"Edward," I whispered, my heart swelling with joy.

Kane looked confused for a moment, then understanding dawned on his face. He squeezed my hand, his voice choked with emotion. "Go to him, Mumma. It's okay."

I felt a warmth envelop me, like strong arms wrapping around my body. The scent of Edward—pine and mint and something uniquely him—filled my senses.

I closed my eyes, I let my mind drift back to Edward—back to the life we had lived, the love we had shared. The house, the kids, the laughter, the tears, the joy. The way he had made me feel alive, even on the hardest days.

He was waiting for me. I could feel it.

I took a deep breath, my body relaxing, my mind growing quiet. The last thing I felt was Kane's hand in mine, and the last thing I thought was of Edward's smile, his laugh, his love.

And then, I was with him again.

Finally.

Welcoming me to the tune of Taylor Swift.