Page 114 of Hero Mine

“Not a single one.”

They stood together as the last light faded, watching their community—theirfamily—celebrate around the symbol of second chances and new beginnings. The obstacle course rose against the darkening sky, a testament to what could be built from broken pieces when people chose to believe in possibility rather than punishment.

“So,” Bear said, pressing a kiss to her temple, “when do you want to get married?”

Joy laughed. “Well, we’ll need to wait until Sloane has the baby so she can be my matron of honor.”

“And Aaron will insist on building some sort of architectural marvel for the ceremony.”

“And Mrs. Fuller will want to organize the entire town...”

Bear grinned. “So, next spring?”

“Perfect.” Joy turned to kiss him properly. “Just enough time to plan the wedding Oak Creek will talk about for generations.”

As if on cue, a cheer went up from the course where the small boy, Jackson, had just completed his first successful run through the advanced section. The boy pumped his fists in triumph while Aaron and the others applauded his achievement.

Joy leaned into Bear’s solid warmth, her ring catching the firelight from the celebration bonfire someone had started. This was what happiness felt like—not the absence of struggle, but the presence of love strong enough to transform struggle into strength.

“I love you,” she whispered.

“I love you too, Bug. Always have, always will.”

And as the stars emerged overhead and their community celebrated around them, Joy knew that everything—every fear faced, every challenge overcome, every chance taken—had been worth it for this moment, this man, this future they would build together.

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