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A quiet ache tugs at my heart as I kneel outside, the summer breeze warm against my skin, the cemetery’s soft grass cushioning my knees. It’s been a long few months, fruitful but interesting as I navigate this new world without Jonah’s ghost clinging to me. I run my hand across my belly, the fullness straining my dress. Victoria mentioned that I should pop any day now, bringing our twin girls into the world and I can’t wait to step into another part of our future.

I blow out a heavy breath as I lay a single white lily across the top of Felix’s gravestone, his favorite flower and his first from me. It’s taken me forever to gather up the courage to stray this far from the house and even with the tendril of fear lurking in the background, I wasn’t going to miss this moment.

Tears prick my eyes as a smile curves my lips, love and loss tangling as I trace the letters of his headstone. “I miss you, Felix, so much.” I lean back on my calves, caressing my belly as I talk to my brother. “I wish you could see me now. I found a family, the very Alphas you sent me. It’s like you knew how much we needed each other and they’ve given me everything, even these girls.”

A small purr comes from me as my Omega preens at how far we’ve come. I can imagine how happy Felix would be, hanging off Callum like he used to, maybe even with his own Omega in tow. We’d be best friends, I just know it, the idea bringing on a wave of fresh tears.

“Felix, I made it. They helped me become Seraphina again. I’m not scared to go outside and I can finally go on all those dates with Ambrose, ride to the station, shop for food. I know you’re watching and you’re proud of me.”

A soft hand slips into my hair, grounding me from losing myself out here in public. I lean against Callum’s thigh, still staring at the headstone, wanting to leave him with one last thing.

“Your picture’s up over the TV, now. I’m going to make sure our girls know all about their uncle and how amazing he was. How your presence is still here and how you’ll always be with us. I love you so much, Felix.” A sob lodges in my throat as I twist around, fingers curling for the present I brought for him because this wasn’t just a visit but a special one. Ambrose kneels beside me, placing a small cupcake at the foot of his grave, one lone candle along the top—the number 29. “I didn’t get to celebrate your birthday with you but I’m here now.”

Lyle moves up behind me, handing me a lighter and I lean down to light the candle, staring at the flickering flame. I used to hate it, terrified that it would take more from me. And now I’m embracing it. I throw Felix one last wish before blowing his candle out for him, a slight breeze rustling through my hair almost as if he’s right here with us in this moment, finally able to say goodbye.