Page 66 of Return to Me

“THAT WAS A BEAUTIFULwedding,” Elijah said as he curled into my side. “I’ve loved seeing the generations of my family over the years, but that boy has always been my favorite.”

“He’s a lot like you.” I told him. Noah had always been how I pictured Elijah through the years – smart, beautiful, and devoted to those he loved.

“He sure is tenacious,” Elijah said with a chuckle. I imagined he was remembering the séances, Ouija board, and all the other stunts Noah and Maverick attempted over the years to free Elijah from the house.

“Times sure have changed haven’t they?” I asked. “Not only can they love each other openly, but people came to celebrate their nuptials with them. I would have loved that for us, Eli.”

“I would’ve loved it too, Tave. I have no regrets though, except that I wasn’t on that ship with you when it went down. As much as I loved the family and caring for the beautiful home you built for us, I’d rather not have been separated for so long. I missed you every single day of my life and for many decades after.”

“I’m glad you didn’t die with me, my love, even though it hurt me to see you so sad at times. I knew you’d be strong enough to survive without me, even if you didn’t know it. Look at the beautiful family you got to know, the babies you got to hold, and the legacy you left behind.” I rocked him in my arms, so grateful to have him back again. “I bet Maverick and Noah have a son and name him Elijah.”

“You think?”

“I know…”

Eighteen months later, Elijah Octavius McKinney came kicking and screaming into the world and was placed in the loving arms of his fathers.

The End!