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It wasn’t a hard decision to take his last name, but I kept my pen name. I still write, but more often than not, I love working with Connor as a script supervisor. He’s directed three more movies; a romantic comedy, a period gay love story, which was my favorite, and the one set to release next year, a comedy action movie where Connor directs Kaid, Spencer, and himself.

Linus apprenticed under a costume designer as he worked on his degree in fashion design, and Connor has hired him for every one of our productions, and he’s thrived in the role.

Landon enrolled in law school after finishing his B.A. in under three years, as he fast-tracked his education by also taking classes in the summer. Maisie mentored him whenever hestruggled with a point of law he didn’t understand, and he plans to be a defense attorney after school.

Lyric became a graphic designer and social media consultant. He creates all my book and audiobook covers, website, promo, and social media. To immerse him in the book world, he accompanied me to several romance conventions and networked with several other romance authors. Of course, they loved him and he had plenty of work in the publishing world. The best part, all three of them still lived at home.

The rest of the siblings all thrived in their lives. Sam stuck with emergency medicine, but Thomas helped him achieve a better work/life balance so he’s not exhausted all the time. They married within a month of Connor and I exchanging our vows by the same judge in the same courtroom, with the same guests in attendance.

Omi choreographs several award shows and has contracted with studios for her services.

And despite Emilia’s law practice thriving, it hasn’t soured her on love. Addie moved in with her and while they haven’t spoken about marriage, I think it’s a matter of time.

We are all still close, having family dinners most nights of the week. But rather than limit them to family, they include Spencer, Lee, Kaid, and Lewis, usually followed by movie marathons or game nights. It’s nice to have siblings and close friends I love so integral to our happiness.

Valentina and Lewis, although they started as competitors, have become the best of friends. They have combined their efforts and researched new recipes, which we all benefitted from.

My phone buzzed, so I shook myself out of my thoughts, and paused in shaking my leg enough to get the cell out of my pocket. I let out a laugh when I noticed it was Connor.

Connor: Anything?

Ollie: No. Beautiful, don’t you think I would have called you if I had any news?

Connor: Yeah, but… it doesn’t take this long, does it?

Ollie: No clue. Did you find coffee?

Connor: Should we ask the nurse?

Ollie: They’re a little busy. Where are you?

The phone went silent, and after a few minutes, the elevator dinged on the quiet floor. Not expecting anyone but my husband, I giggled when our entire group of friends and family piled out of the elevators, followed by Connor, looking triumphant with a large cup of coffee in his hand.

I stood and walked into mama’s arms.

“How are you holding up?” Mama asked.

Connor moved behind me and wrapped an arm around my chest and pulling me closer to him when mama let me go. I let out every thought in my head.

“I’m nervous… but excited. Then terrified, and wondering why it’s taking so long. I want to pace, but forced myself to sit down because I don’t want to drive people crazy. But, yeah, excited. And nervous, anxious. Jeez, why can’t I catch my breath? Is it hot in here?”

Soon, I was sitting with my head between my knees as Connor directed my breaths in and out.

“Are you okay, honey?” Emilia asked.

“Pretty sure. I might be. What’s with all the questions?”

Addie laughed and rubbed my back.

Landon said, “I think she asked because you are hyperventilating, brother of mine.”

“The glare won’t help you get more oxygen,” Lyric added.

“When did you become such a smart ass?” I asked.

“Yesterday,” he replied, blinking.

Spencer, Lee, Kaid, and Lewis laughed, and I glared at them, pointing. “Don’t encourage him.” Of course, I’m about as intimidating as a fluffy bunny.