Samuel lay on his back. His eyes were closed, his expression peaceful. A white blanket was drawn over his still body, leaving only the head bare. They had combed his black hair until it lay smoothly around his head.

He looked more like a young child now than the hate-filled creature he had been.

Figures surrounded the grave. Vampires, his mortal enemies, bidding him his final farewell. They had no ill feelings towards the black wolf, who had turned back human after his death. He had fought bravely for them and by sacrificing himself saved Sara, the only family he had left, although he had insisted that it meant nothing to him.

„May you be at peace, Samuel Black. Rest now for you have fought bravely," Carlisle ended his speech.

Sara was standing between her father and Edward. Edward had one arm slung around her shoulder while she clutched the hand of her father.

Bella hadn't come, she was looking after Charlie and Billy.

Sara was surprised how deeply Samuel's death hurt her. She hadn't really known the other wolf. But he had fought for them although it went against every belief he had. And in the end, he had died so she could live.

When Carlisle had finished speaking, Sara stepped forward. Kneeling in front of the open grave, she carefully put the white rose she had brought on his unmoving chest. A single tear rolled down her face. „Thank you," she whispered.

Then she stood up and retreated. Emmet and Jasper began shovelling earth on Samuel and soon his body was covered completely.

Sara looked at the tombstone. It read:

Samuel Black

Grandson of Ephraim Black

May you find peace

Wiping away her tears, she managed a small smile when she was pulled in a hug by her mate. She nestled in Edward's strong arms, feeling secure and protected. She lay a hand on his chest where his heart would have beaten. Then she looked up.

Edward smiled down at her, his eyes full of love. „Ready to go home?"

Sara nodded. „Always."

Hand in hand they made their way away from the grave and the past and on to their home where their future awaited.

There was still a wedding to plan, after all.

And after that?

Well, who knew. Life could be pretty unpredictable sometimes.

The only thing Sara and Edward knew for certain was that, as long as they were together and had their son by their side, nothing and no one would ever stop them.

And so, they lived happily forever after.

—The End—-