Chapter 15 - THE HAPPY ENDING
Five years later.
The Grimaldi mansion was bathed in the warm, steady glow of Christmas lights once again.
Outside, a gentle snow drifted down through the pines, dusting the driveways in white.
Inside the grand entrance hall, a four-year-old boy with dark hair and bright, curious eyes chased a golden retriever across the polished marble floor, his joyful laughter echoing off the mahogany walls.
I stood on the third stair, winding silver garland through the banister just as I had on that cold night five years ago.
Strong arms wrapped around my waist from behind.
A familiar chin rested gently on my shoulder, and the scent of cedarwood and rain filled my senses.
"You're going to make yourself late for your own anniversary party," Nicholas murmured against my ear.
I leaned back into his embrace, turning my head to kiss his cheek.
"I have everything right here," I whispered.
May you like
Nicholas smiled, pulling me flush against his chest as the distant chime of the grandfather clock rang out into the evening air, marking the beginning of another peaceful, perfect winter night.
THE END
