Then a gentle hand lifts my chin. So gentle I can barely feel it. “Oh, Clo.My special girl. You have no idea how happy I am to see you.”
Suddenly, strong arms wrap around me, holding me tight. I can’t remember the last time I got a hug from my dad. Heavens, I’ve missed his hugs.
And the rest of the tears I’ve been keeping at bay over the past several decades escape.
“You’re finally here. I’ve been waiting a long time, honey. I'm sorry I didn't visit you sooner—I knew you needed time.” Then, he says something I could’ve never anticipated. “There isnothingto forgive.Nothing.”
I break away from his grasp and nod slowly in understanding. The only person who needs to forgive me is myself.
I won’t harbor these feelings any longer. Idoforgive myself.
I back away and sneak a look at Kai, who’s nonchalantly wiping one of his eyes. I quirk an eyebrow at him.
Just allergies. Nothing to see here, baby.He winks.
This man and his relentless winks will be the death of me.
“Dad, I’d like you to meet the love of my life… or afterlife. Kai.” I gesture toward him.
“Oh, I’ve heard all about you, Kai.” He gives him a knowing look, then shakes his hand. “The angels up here couldn’t get enough of your mischief.”
“Heavens, don’t tell him that. It’ll get to his head.” I pinch the bridge of my nose.
“No, no, please. Do tell me more, sir. I’mdyingto know what the angels have been saying.”
My dad chuckles at his corny joke and begins sharing all the hot gossip. Apparently, news flies fast between the realms, and the Golden Realm knows all.
Kai joins my left side, holding me close, while my dad walks to my right. We stride toward the entrance of the Golden Realm—together.
For once, I don’t know what lies ahead. I don’t know what I’ve been missing. I don’t know where I’ll be eons from now.
As someone who thrives on consistent routines, this is uncharted territory for me.
Yet, I’m undeniably the lightest—and most well-rested—I’ve ever been.
The ray of sunshine holding my hand is undoubtedly to blame for this unprecedented outcome. He brought me back to life.
Epilogue
Kai
Several Years Later
Where do I begin?
Well, for starters, I received special permission to attend my sister's wedding on Earth.Thatwas exciting. Cleo tagged along, too, and stood at the back of the venue throughout—she couldn’t get over how pretty Irie's dress was. Meanwhile, Jasper may or may not have spotted me, not that I was hiding. He deserved to know everything worked out.
As his eyes landed on my wings, his brows raised slightly and his smile grew even brighter. I was hoping that I’d get the chance to chat with him, but alas. I wasn’t granted permission to do that, and I’m trying my best to follow the rules these days. Watching them tie the knot was enough for me.
In other exciting events, you can call meUncle Kainow, and I’m definitely the cool uncle. Granted, I’m theonlyuncle and I haven’t gotten to meet the kid yet, but still. Cool Uncle Kai has entered the chat. Their little girl has Jasper wrapped around her finger. Speaking of fingers, Cleo’s finger gained a new sparkling accessory.
A bejeweled ring made just for her to symbolize our infinite union. I have one, too, and interestingly enough, it’s the same ring that was used to hold me hostage in the Middle Realm. I liked the idea of changing its meaning to be something more intimate. Not to mention, this ring has a special place in my heart—watching her kiss it so I could escape the Middle Realm won me over.
Ah, Cleo.My angel.I get to wake up to her ethereal face every morning.
Thisisparadise.
You know, you’d love the library up here. It’s like five times the size of the Middle Realm’s library. No exaggeration. Crazy, right?
