Rory sat by the window in the old Gilmore mansion, the golden afternoon sun casting long shadows across the room. It had been six months since she and Logan made the decision to leave The Magna, stepping away from the chaos and pressure that once consumed their lives. Now, the quiet hum of the Hartford streets outside was a world away from their hectic past.
Logan walked into the room, holding two cups of coffee, a knowing smile on his face. "You're thinking again," he said, placing a cup in front of her before sitting beside her on the couch.
Rory gave a small laugh, her eyes still tracing the pattern of the trees outside. "I can't help it. This place… It's so different now, isn't it?"
"It is," Logan agreed, glancing around the familiar walls. The mansion had been part of their lives for so long, but it was only now, living in it day-to-day, that it felt like home. The bookshelves were filled with Rory's favorite novels, Leia's toys were scattered in the corner, and the twins' art projects hung proudly on the walls. It was a far cry from the sterile, impersonal space it used to be.
"And yet," Rory continued, "it feels like we've always been here. I mean, how did we ever survive all those years without this… peace?"
Logan chuckled, shaking his head. "I have no idea. But now, I wouldn't trade this for anything."
Rory leaned her head on his shoulder, sipping her coffee as they shared the quiet moment. In the next room, they could hear Leia singing softly to herself, and the twins' laughter floated in from the backyard. It was the life they had built together, and it felt like everything had fallen into place.
"I still can't believe Finn's actually going to propose," Rory said after a moment, breaking the comfortable silence. "I mean, it's Finn. Proposing. That's… wild."
Logan grinned. "I know. But if anyone could handle his insanity, it's April. She keeps him grounded."
Rory nodded, her thoughts already drifting toward the upcoming event. Finn had planned something big, of course, full of all the flair and drama that only he could pull off. She could already imagine the chaos and laughter, the kind that came with every Life and Death Brigade gathering.
"Tomorrow's going to be… interesting," Logan said with a sly smile.
"Interesting," Rory repeated, laughing softly. "That's one way to put it."
They sat in contented silence again, letting the weight of the last six months settle around them. Life had changed, but for the first time in a long time, everything felt right. Rory placed her hand on Logan's, squeezing it gently.
"Ready for tomorrow?" Logan asked, his tone light but knowing.
"Ready for anything" Rory winked, a sense of excitement bubbling beneath her calm exterior.
The calm before the storm.
The streets of New York City glittered under the late summer sunset, a warm golden haze draping the city in magic. The entrance to the MET stood like a grand gateway, its stone steps glowing in the fading light as guests arrived, each dressed to the nines but unaware of the adventure Finn had set into motion.
Rory stood next to Logan, her fingers brushing against his arm as they took in the scene. Her eyes squinted slightly in the brilliance of the sun, catching the shimmer of everything around them—the golden hues of the setting sun, the energy of the city at dusk, and the soft, almost whimsical glow of the moment. She tilted her head slightly, a bemused smile on her lips as she examined the ornate scroll in her hand, delivered with a flourish by a man dressed in full 19th-century regalia—top hat, tails, and all.
"Are we at a wedding or a Jane Austen reenactment?" Rory murmured, her voice laced with amusement. She glanced at Logan, her lips quirking into a playful smile.
Logan chuckled, his arm slipping around her waist as he pulled her a little closer, leaning in so his breath teased her ear. "This is Finn we're talking about. Anything's possible. Remember when he brought an elephant to Honor's birthday party?"
"Of course," Rory laughed softly, pressing herself against Logan for warmth as a slight breeze ruffled the air. "He does have a way of making everything feel… theatrical."
Logan's eyes softened as he glanced down at her. "And you love it."
She laughed again, the sound light and bright. "I do. Against my better judgment." She tapped the scroll against his chest. "But what do you think? Does this feel like a proposal? Or maybe we've wandered into Finn's secret audition for Downton Abbey."
Before Logan could respond, April—who had clearly already fallen under the spell of the evening—darted off toward the first clue, her excitement palpable. Her eyes shone with the thrill of the unknown, and Rory couldn't help but smile.
"He really knows her, doesn't he?" Rory whispered, more to herself than anyone else, watching as April eagerly searched for the next piece of Finn's elaborate puzzle.
"He does," Logan replied, his gaze following April, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You should have heard him planning this for weeks. The details, Rory, you wouldn't believe how much thought went into this."
Rory raised an eyebrow, her smile broadening. "Details? Finn? Surely you're mistaken."
Logan shook his head, clearly impressed. "I'm not. He wanted everything to be perfect for her—something unforgettable."
"And it will be," Rory said, a warm feeling settling in her chest. She glanced up at Logan, the glow of the sunset catching in his golden hair. "This is kind of… beautiful, isn't it?"
Logan met her gaze, his expression softening as he leaned down, brushing a kiss against her temple. "Yeah. It really is."
They followed the group into the museum, the grand halls lit only for them, as if Finn had ordered the MET itself to bend to his whim. In every corner, art and history whispered their secrets, yet all of it paled in comparison to the journey Finn had designed. Rory felt like she was walking through a dream—one filled with romance, whimsy, and just a touch of ridiculousness. It was exactly the kind of evening that only Finn could pull off.
At the first stop—a towering Egyptian statue that seemed to loom over them like a silent guardian—April discovered a clue hidden within a gold-encrusted replica of an ancient scroll. Her fingers trembled slightly as she pulled it free, her eyes dancing with curiosity. "'Look not for treasure where gold lies still, but where memories live, bright and full. Your heart will know the way, love will guide you,'" she read aloud, her voice barely above a whisper.
Rory watched as April's face softened, a quiet realization flickering in her eyes. The thrill of the treasure hunt was still there, but now something deeper lingered in her gaze—something more intimate. Rory glanced at Finn, who was standing just behind April, his usual rakish grin replaced by an expression so tender, it made Rory's chest ache.
"What does it mean?" April asked, turning to Finn, her voice laced with awe.
Finn, ever the enigma, merely shrugged, a playful gleam returning to his eyes. "Love, I can't tell you everything. What fun would that be?"
April shook her head, her smile widening as she tucked the scroll into her bag. "Of course you can't."
As they moved through the museum, each stop more breathtaking than the last, Rory couldn't help but steal glances at Logan. There was something about being in this magical space—this curated adventure of love and mystery—that made her feel like she was falling in love with him all over again. His hand remained on the small of her back, a steady presence as they wandered through centuries of art and history, the quiet pulse of the city outside a distant memory.
By the time they reached the rooftop, the sun had fully set, leaving the sky awash in deep blues and purples, with the first stars twinkling faintly above the skyline. The city stretched out before them like a sea of lights, each one flickering with life and possibility. Rory's breath caught in her throat as she took it all in. The rooftop itself was a vision—strands of delicate fairy lights hung above them, casting a soft, golden glow over everything. In one corner, a small string quartet played, their music floating through the air like something from a dream.
But it was Finn who stood at the center of it all, his usual swagger tempered by a rare moment of vulnerability. As he knelt down on one knee, Rory felt the air still, the city quieting in deference to the moment.
April's hand flew to her mouth, her eyes wide with shock, as Finn produced a small velvet box from his jacket. "April Nardini," he began, his voice softer than Rory had ever heard it, "you are the only woman who has ever made me want to be the man who deserves you. You challenge me, you ground me, and you make every day an adventure. So I figured, why not make this day an adventure too?"
Rory's eyes welled with tears as she watched the scene unfold. Finn's words were raw, honest, and entirely him, yet there was something new in his voice—something that spoke of love so deep, it transcended the chaos and charm of his usual antics. She glanced at Logan, who was watching the proposal with a soft smile, his hand brushing against hers.
April's voice trembled as she spoke, her eyes glistening. "Yes," she whispered, the word barely audible as she threw her arms around Finn. "Yes."
The world seemed to explode in that moment—applause, laughter, the clinking of champagne glasses—but for Rory, time slowed. She felt Logan's hand slip into hers, his fingers lacing through hers with a gentle squeeze. He leaned down, his lips brushing against her ear, and in that brief, quiet moment, it felt like the whole world had disappeared, leaving just the two of them in their own bubble of warmth and love.
Rory's heart fluttered as Logan's lips grazed her cheek, the faint scent of his cologne wrapping around her. "You know," he whispered, his voice a low murmur, "watching this makes me realize something…"
"What's that?" Rory asked, her voice just as soft, her eyes closing as she savored the intimacy of the moment.
Logan's lips brushed against hers, a kiss so gentle it sent shivers down her spine. "We have a pretty damn good adventure of our own."
The group erupted into applause, champagne flutes magically appearing as if summoned by Finn's sheer will. The sound of laughter filled the rooftop, bright and carefree under the fairy lights. It was a moment of joy, of friendship, and of love, as Finn and April embraced their future together. Rory watched them, feeling warmth rise in her chest, her heart swelling with happiness for her friends. Yet, as she raised her glass to join in the celebration, a sudden, unexpected wave of nausea swept over her.
It hit her like a punch to the gut—sharp, then lingering. She swayed slightly, instinctively reaching out to Logan for support. His arm was around her in an instant, steadying her.
"Hey, you okay?" Logan's voice was soft but edged with concern. His hand brushed a strand of hair away from her face, his eyes narrowing as he studied her pale expression.
Rory swallowed, pressing her hand to her stomach. "I… I don't know," she muttered, her brow furrowing in confusion. "I've just been feeling off all day. I thought it was nerves, or maybe I ate something weird earlier, but this…"
Logan's gaze sharpened, a flicker of realization crossing his face. "You don't think…?"
"No," Rory said quickly, shaking her head. "Logan, we weren't even trying. I mean, the twins were—" She paused, catching her breath. "A miracle. I'm 38. This… this can't be happening."
But Logan didn't look convinced. His eyes softened, filled with an affectionate concern that made her heart flip. "Rory, come on. You know it's possible. Let's just be sure, okay? We'll take a test. You'll feel better knowing."
Rory groaned, her fingers tightening slightly on his arm. She hated how calm he was, how practical, when her mind was already spinning. But Logan had that look—the one that meant there was no arguing with him when he had already decided to take action. He guided her gently toward a quieter corner of the rooftop, away from the celebrations, his hand warm and steady on her lower back.
"You're really not going to let this go, are you?" she muttered under her breath, half-exasperated, half-amused.
Logan grinned, though the concern in his eyes didn't fade. "Not a chance, Ace. Better safe than sorry."
With a sigh of resignation, Rory followed him into the building, feeling her heart race with every step they took. A quick pit stop in the women's restroom later, Rory found herself staring at a small plastic stick in disbelief, her hands trembling slightly as the results became clear.
"Well," Rory said, her voice unnervingly calm despite the storm of emotions swirling inside her. "That's definitely a plus sign."
Logan blinked, his jaw slack with surprise, as if his brain needed a moment to catch up with what his eyes were seeing. "Holy—"
"I know," Rory interrupted, looking equally stunned, though a small smile played on her lips. "I know."
They stood there, staring at each other for a long, heavy moment, letting the reality sink in. Rory's mind raced through a whirlwind of thoughts—how was this even possible? They hadn't planned for this. She was already juggling enough with Leia and the twins. But beneath the shock and disbelief, there was a growing sense of wonder, of joy, rising up inside her.
Logan was the first to break the silence, his expression softening, transforming from shock to something deeper, more profound. His smile spread slowly, his eyes shining with love, as if he had just stumbled upon the greatest treasure. He stepped toward her, cupping her face in his hands. "Rory… we're having another baby."
Rory felt a rush of emotion welling up inside her—fear, excitement, joy—until it all broke loose in a laugh. She wrapped her arms around Logan, burying her face in his chest as tears pricked at her eyes. "I guess we are."
Logan held her close, his hand running soothing circles along her back as they stood there in the quiet bathroom, the world outside still celebrating, completely oblivious to the life-altering moment happening in their corner. Rory's heart pounded against her ribs, but in Logan's arms, everything felt steady, anchored. Safe.
"I'm terrified," Rory whispered after a moment, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes.
Logan's lips curved into a soft smile, his thumb brushing over her cheek. "Me too. But we've got this. You and me. Like always."
Rory nodded, feeling the weight of his words settle in her heart. "Yeah. Like always."
They stayed like that for a while, wrapped up in each other, their world shrinking down to just the two of them and the tiny life growing inside her. It was scary, unexpected, and yet… it felt right.
When they finally returned to the rooftop, the party was still in full swing. Finn was already in his element, standing on a chair, glass raised high, his voice booming as he toasted April for the tenth time that night.
"To April, the most beautiful Sheila in the world!" Finn grinned widely, his eyes twinkling with pride and affection. "And to the future Mrs. Finn Morgan, who will undoubtedly be the brains of the operation!"
Rory exchanged a quick glance with Logan, her heart still racing from the secret they now shared. He caught her eye, his expression soft, mischievous, and filled with love, and he raised his glass toward her in a private toast.
"To surprises," Logan whispered, clinking his glass gently against hers. His eyes held hers for a long moment, and in that shared gaze, Rory felt the excitement bubbling up inside her again—the same feeling she always got when she was with him, when they faced the unknown together. The thrill of life unfolding in ways they never expected but always managed to embrace.
She smiled, raising her glass. "To surprises."
New Year's Eve 2022/2023
The gentle crunch of snow underfoot echoed through the night as Rory and Logan stepped out of their car, the grand castle looming ahead of them like something from a fairytale. A light dusting of snowflakes fell from the sky, adding an extra layer of magic to the scene. Rory wrapped her arm around Logan's, her breath curling in the cold air as they made their way toward the entrance.
"Finn really went all out, didn't he?" Rory remarked, her eyes wide as she took in the sparkling display of lights that seemed to twinkle in every corner of the castle grounds.
Logan smiled, his hand warm against hers. "When does he not?"
Inside the castle, the ballroom was nothing short of spectacular. Crystal chandeliers cast shimmering reflections across the room, while candles flickered on every table, surrounded by lush garlands of greenery and white roses. The entire scene felt like stepping into another world—a place where time slowed down and everything was touched by magic.
"It's like a winter wonderland threw up all over this place," Rory whispered with a grin.
"Is that a complaint?" Logan teased, leaning down to kiss her on the temple. "Or are you secretly impressed?"
"Maybe a little of both." Rory laughed, though the smile on her face betrayed her awe. "I just don't know how April agreed to this. It's so… Finn."
As if on cue, Finn appeared, his signature grin lighting up his face as he approached them, dressed in a custom-tailored tuxedo that practically screamed "extravagant." A subtle sparkle gleamed from the lapels, and Rory could've sworn his shoes were made of velvet.
"Logan, Rory!" Finn greeted, sweeping into a dramatic bow. "Welcome to the grandest night of the century. I trust you've prepared yourselves for a night of impossible decadence?"
Rory raised an eyebrow, amused. "You mean we've stepped into one of your fever dreams?"
"Exactly," Finn replied, his eyes twinkling. "And you haven't even seen the best part yet."
They exchanged a few more pleasantries before Finn whisked himself away, playing the perfect host. The air was electric with excitement, and Rory felt the hum of it thrumming beneath her skin as they found their table, joining Honor, Colin, Steph, and the rest of the group. Logan took Rory's hand beneath the table, squeezing it gently, as they waited for the ceremony to begin.
The ceremony itself was held in a chapel connected to the castle, adorned in twinkling lights and draped in white silk. It was understated but elegant—April's touch balancing Finn's flair for drama. She stood at the altar, radiant in a simple yet stunning gown, her hair pulled back in soft waves. Finn's eyes were locked on her as she made her way down the aisle, his usual playful expression replaced by one of deep affection.
As they exchanged vows, there was a noticeable shift in the air. Finn, normally the joker, spoke with such sincerity it caught everyone off guard. His voice, usually light and mischievous, carried an emotional weight as he told April how she had changed his life, grounded him in ways he never thought possible, and made every day feel like an adventure.
"April Nardini," Finn began, his voice soft but clear. "You are the one person who sees me—all of me—and somehow you still love me. You've taught me what it means to truly love someone, not just with grand gestures or adventures, but in the quiet moments too. You're my anchor, my constant, and my greatest adventure. Marrying you is the easiest decision I've ever made."
April smiled through her tears, her hands shaking slightly as she took his. "Finn, you bring a joy into my life that I didn't even know I needed. You've shown me that life is meant to be lived fully, with laughter, with spontaneity, and with love. You make every day an adventure, and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you, wherever it takes us."
When Finn slipped the ring onto her finger, there wasn't a dry eye in the room. The two of them—eccentric, wild Finn and the grounded, serene April—were perfect together. The kiss that sealed their vows was met with a thunderous applause, the kind that comes from the pure, unrestrained joy of friends and family.
If the ceremony had been intimate, the reception was anything but. Finn's love for spectacle was on full display as they re-entered the ballroom for the grand party. Performers on stilts, live music, and a dance floor that seemed to stretch on forever greeted the guests. The champagne flowed, and the laughter echoed in every corner.
Rory found herself swept up in the magic of it all, dancing with Logan beneath the glittering chandeliers, her heart light and full. "I think this might be the most over-the-top wedding I've ever seen," she said breathlessly, leaning into Logan as they swayed to the music.
"And yet, somehow, it fits them perfectly," Logan replied, his arms wrapped around her waist.
"I hope they're as happy as we are," Rory murmured, resting her head on Logan's chest.
Logan pressed a kiss to the top of her head. "They will be. Finn's crazy about her."
As the night wound down, Rory watched as Finn and April shared their first dance, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the chandeliers. It was a beautiful sight—the way Finn, normally larger-than-life, softened in her presence. The room, full of their closest friends and family, seemed to disappear as they danced, lost in each other.
Rory glanced at Logan, who caught her gaze and smiled. She reached for his hand, squeezing it gently as they watched the newlyweds.
"To love," she whispered, leaning in to kiss him softly. "And all the crazy, wonderful adventures it brings."
The world outside the hospital window was bathed in the soft light of early spring. The trees, still bare from winter, swayed gently in the breeze, their branches silhouetted against the pale blue sky. Inside, the atmosphere was calm but electric, the sterile air carrying with it the quiet anticipation that always accompanies the birth of new life.
Rory lay in the hospital bed, her hand gripping Logan's tightly as she exhaled through another contraction. Her hair was damp against her forehead, her face flushed, but despite the exhaustion, her eyes were bright with determination. She had done this before—twice, in fact—but this time felt different. There was a quiet intimacy to the moment, as if the world had paused, holding its breath alongside them.
Logan sat beside her, his free hand brushing the hair back from her face, his expression a mixture of awe and concern. "You're doing great, Ace," he whispered, his voice low and steady, though she could hear the tremor of emotion underneath. "Almost there."
Rory managed a smile, her fingers squeezing his hand as another wave of pain rolled through her. "Easy for you to say," she muttered, her voice hoarse but playful. "You're not the one doing the hard part."
Logan chuckled softly, leaning down to press a kiss to her forehead. "No, but I'm here with you. Always."
Those words—*always*—wrapped around her like a warm embrace, steadying her as she pushed through the final moments of labor. And then, with a soft, startled cry, the room filled with the sound of new life.
The nurse lifted their daughter, her tiny body wriggling in her professional hands, and placed her gently on Rory's chest. Rory's breath caught as she stared down at the newborn, her heart swelling with an overwhelming rush of love. Tears pricked her eyes as she stroked her daughter's soft cheek, feeling the warmth of her skin, the steady rise and fall of her breath.
"She's here," Rory whispered, her voice breaking as she looked up at Logan. "Our baby girl."
Logan's eyes were wide with wonder, his usual calm exterior shattered by the raw emotion of the moment. He reached out, his hand trembling slightly as he gently touched their daughter's tiny hand, her fingers curling instinctively around his.
"Emily," he breathed, the name rolling off his tongue with reverence. "She's perfect, Rory."
Rory smiled through her tears, nodding as she held Emily close, feeling her tiny heartbeat against her chest. "She is," she whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of her baby's head. "She's perfect."
For a long moment, the world outside ceased to exist. It was just the three of them—Rory, Logan, and Emily—wrapped in the cocoon of their own little universe. The sounds of the hospital faded into the background, replaced by the soft, rhythmic breathing of their newborn daughter and the steady thrum of love that pulsed between them.
Logan leaned down, his forehead resting gently against Rory's as they both stared in awe at their baby girl. "I can't believe it," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "We have another daughter."
Rory let out a soft laugh, her heart full to bursting as she gazed at him. "We do. And she's already got you wrapped around her little finger."
Logan grinned, his eyes shining with love as he looked between Rory and Emily. "How could she not? Look at her."
The nurse came over after a few minutes, gently taking Emily to clean and weigh her. Logan followed, his gaze never leaving his newborn daughter as he watched the nurse carefully measure her, his heart swelling with every small movement she made. Rory leaned back against the pillows, exhaustion finally settling into her bones, but the joy of the moment made the tiredness feel distant.
When Logan returned, holding their freshly swaddled daughter in his arms, Rory felt tears spring to her eyes again. The sight of him, so tall and strong, cradling their tiny, delicate daughter—it was a moment she wanted to freeze in time.
"Here's our girl," Logan murmured as he gently handed Emily back to Rory, his fingers brushing against hers as they passed the baby between them.
Rory held Emily close again, her heart soaring. "She's going to have you wrapped around her finger in no time," she teased, though her voice was soft, full of affection.
Logan chuckled, sitting beside them on the bed and wrapping his arm around Rory's shoulders. "I'm okay with that."
They sat there together, wrapped in the peaceful quiet of the hospital room, their little family now complete. Rory rested her head against Logan's shoulder, her fingers tracing the soft fabric of Emily's blanket as she marveled at how far they had come.
It wasn't the life they had planned, not exactly. But sitting there, with Logan at her side and their newborn daughter in her arms, Rory knew it was the life they were meant to have.
The crisp autumn air brushed against Rory's skin as she stepped out onto the back porch of her home, a soft breeze rustling the golden leaves that covered the ground. The early October sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the backyard, where a small group of friends had gathered for an intimate birthday celebration. Laughter and chatter filled the air, the scent of grilled food wafting from the barbecue as Logan flipped burgers with a practiced ease.
Rory leaned against the railing, taking in the scene. It was simple, laid-back—exactly how she had wanted to spend her 39th birthday. No grand gestures, no extravagant parties—just her closest friends, her family, and the people who had been there through every twist and turn of her life.
Nearby, Leia chased the twins through the yard, their laughter echoing across the space as they dodged between the trees. Rory smiled, her heart swelling with love as she watched them. It was hard to believe how much her life had changed in the past few years—how full and rich it had become.
"Happy birthday, Ace," Logan's voice broke through her thoughts as he stepped up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. His lips brushed against her cheek, soft and warm. "You good?"
Rory nodded, leaning back against him as she let out a contented sigh. "I am. This is perfect."
"Well, don't get too comfortable," Logan teased, resting his chin on her shoulder. "I've got a few surprises up my sleeve."
Rory groaned, half-amused, half-dreading what Logan might have in store. "Logan, please. I'm 39. I don't need surprises. I need cake and maybe a nap."
Logan chuckled, pressing another kiss to her temple. "Too late for that. Besides, you know Finn would never forgive me if I didn't do something special."
Before Rory could respond, a loud voice boomed from across the yard. "To the birthday girl!" Finn's unmistakable voice rang out, cutting through the laughter. He stood on one of the garden chairs, a glass of champagne in hand, his arm draped around April, who was sitting calmly beside him, her very pregnant belly gently cradled in her lap.
"To Rory," Finn continued, raising his glass, "who, despite being far too intelligent for the rest of us, still tolerates our ridiculousness on a regular basis. May your 39th year be filled with adventure, with love, and with an ungodly amount of caffeine."
The group erupted in laughter, clinking their glasses together as Rory blushed, shaking her head at Finn's dramatic toast. "Thank you, Finn," she called out, her voice dripping with fond sarcasm. "I'll make sure to keep the caffeine levels dangerously high."
Logan squeezed her waist gently, his voice soft in her ear. "You deserve every bit of this."
As Rory turned to kiss him, a sudden sound from across the yard drew everyone's attention. April gasped, her eyes wide with shock as she doubled over slightly, her hand pressed to her belly. "Oh no," she muttered, looking up at Finn with wide eyes. "I think my water just broke."
There was a brief moment of stunned silence before the yard erupted into a flurry of activity. Finn nearly fell off the chair in his rush to get to April, while Colin and Steph scrambled to grab their phones, calling the hospital. Rory watched the chaos unfold, her heart pounding with both excitement and concern as they helped April into the car.
"I guess Lizzy didn't want to miss the party," Rory murmured to Logan, her lips quirking into a smile as she watched Finn panic his way into the driver's seat.
Logan chuckled, pulling her close. "Another surprise for the day, huh?"
"Definitely one for the books," Rory agreed, shaking her head with a fond smile. "I'll never forget this birthday."
Hours later, as the last of the guests trickled out and the house grew quiet, Rory and Logan found themselves sitting together in the living room, a fire crackling softly in the hearth. The kids were asleep upstairs, and the air was thick with the warmth of the day's memories. It had been a beautiful, chaotic, love-filled day—exactly what Rory had needed.
As they sat in peaceful silence, Logan's phone buzzed on the coffee table. He glanced at it, his eyes lighting up as he read the message. "Lizzy's here," he said, a grin spreading across his face. "April and Finn just had their baby girl."
Rory's heart swelled with joy, and she reached for Logan's hand, squeezing it. "That's wonderful," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "I'm so happy for them."
Logan leaned back, pulling Rory into his arms as they both stared into the fire. "It's been a good day," he murmured, his lips brushing against her hair. "A damn good day."
Rory closed her eyes, letting herself sink into the warmth of his embrace. "Yeah," she whispered. "It really has."