Page 69 of The Arrangement

It's a feeling so rare and precious, especially in our tumultuous world, that I commit every detail to memory. The weight of Kira in my arms earlier, the sound of Adelina's laughter, the way Tory's eyes meet mine with a love so profound it anchors me—this is what it's all about. This is the life I'm fighting for, the future I'll shape not just for me, but for all of us.

In this room, with my family gathered around, I'm reminded that no matter what challenges lie ahead, we have each other. And with that knowledge, I feel a strength and a resolve settle deep within me, ready for whatever comes our way, knowing we'll face it together, as a family.

Epilogue II

Tory

Three years later…

Settled in my home office, the laptop screen flickers with the faces of Ty, Cassie, and a few other key members of our Paws and Play team. I lean in, feeling every bit the boss lady as we dive into our mid-year review, dissecting the progress and challenges of our three locations.

"Okay, team, let's talk numbers and narratives," I begin, flipping through the tabs on my screen to pull up our performance metrics. "We've seen impressive growth in our Lincoln Park and Wicker Park spots, but I think it's time we consider expanding further north, maybe into Rogers Park. Thoughts?"

Ty jumps in, his humor never far behind. "As long as we don't start offering cat yoga, I'm in. I can't handle any more 'purrrfect balance' puns, Tory."

Cassie rolls her eyes but smiles. "I think it's a great idea, Tory. There's a real demand up north. But are we stretching too thin, too fast?"

The screen lights up with nods and thoughtful expressions, everyone considering the balance between growth and sustainability.

"I want us to mull it over for the rest of the year," I say, determined to make a calculated move rather than a rushed decision. "No cat yoga, Ty, I promise. But maybe doga?"

Ty's laugh is infectious, even through the digital divide. "Doga? Dogs doing yoga? Now, that I've got to see. Count me in for the demonstration."

The back-and-forth continues, ideas bouncing around, the team's dynamics vibrant and full of potential. We discuss staffing needs, potential locations, and marketing strategies, all while Ty's sass keeps the mood light and engaging.

As the call winds down, I feel a rush of gratitude for this team, for their dedication and spirit. "Thanks, everyone. Your hard work and creativity are what make Paws and Play such a success. Let's keep pushing, keep innovating, and we'll make this expansion a reality."

Closing the laptop, I lean back in my chair, a sense of contentment washing over me. This business, our team, it's more than just a job—it's a passion, a community. And as I gaze out the window, thinking about the future of Paws and Play, I'm filled with excitement for what's to come.

The tranquility of our garden stretches out before me and a moment of reflection washes over. It's almost surreal, this life I'm living now. Paws and Play is thriving beyond my wildest dreams, a testament to the hard work, love, and maybe a bit of luck we've poured into it.

I've reached a point where I've been able to delegate the bulk of the daily operations to Ty and our incredible team of managers. They're the backbone of our success, allowing me the space to still be involved without being overwhelmed by the minutiae.

Each day, I make it a point to visit our shops, not just to ensure things are running smoothly, but also because Adelina and Kira have fallen in love with the pups. Their laughter and joy when we're there, amidst the wagging tails and playful barks, remind me why I started the business in the first place.

Stepping back from the day-to-day grind has also opened up a new world for me—one where family takes center stage. The ability to spend quality time with Maksim, Adelina, and little Kira is something I cherish deeply. Watching Kira grow, seeing her and Adelina play in the garden, and sharing quiet moments with Maksim are the highlights of my day. This balance between passion for my work and love for my family is more fulfilling than I could have ever imagined.

As I pull away from the window, a smile finds its way onto my face. This life, with its blend of business success and family bliss, is more than I ever hoped for. I'm grateful for every chaotic, messy, beautiful moment of it. It's a reminder that dreams don't have to be just dreams—they can be your reality, if you're willing to chase them with all your heart.

The sound of laughter, pure and joyful, draws me away from my reflections and down the stairs, curiosity and a familiar warmth guiding my steps. In the heart of our home, is a scene that captures the essence of happiness: Adelina and Kira, engrossed in the simple pleasure of building a tower with blocks. Their concentration and teamwork, punctuated by bursts of giggles, fill the room with life.

Maksim is there too, a gentle giant among his girls, throwing in his playful suggestions that spark more laughter. Watching him with our daughters, so involved and loving, reinforces everything I feel about this man, about our family.

I am mesmerized by Kira, watching her little hands pick up blocks with determination. She's growing so fast, each day bringing new discoveries, new joys. The love I have for these girls is overwhelming, grounding, and exhilarating all at once. Being a mom has unlocked a part of my heart I didn't even know existed, and every moment with Kira and Adelina feels like a gift.

Catching Maksim's eye, we share a look that says everything without words. It's a shared understanding, a mutual gratitude for this life we're building, for the love that surrounds us. Standing there, watching our girls play, I'm struck by the sheer rightness of it all, by the sense of belonging and purpose that fills me.

As Maksim effortlessly closes the distance between us, his arm finds its familiar place around my waist, pulling me in for a kiss that still manages to make my heart flutter, despite the playful interruption from Adelina.

"Ew, gross," she protests, but her voice is full of mirth, joining in our laughter.

Breaking away, Maksim shares his plans for the evening. "It's date night," he announces with that look in his eyes that promises more than just dinner and a movie. "Father and Tiffany will be here soon to watch the girls."

His hand sneaks a playful squeeze, and I can't help but smile at the insinuation. The conversation shifts as I remember a piece of gossip that's been circulating. "Speaking of Tiffany, is it true? She and Igor are trying for another baby?"

Maksim nods, a mix of pride and confidentiality in his expression. "Trying? You should see the bill for the IVF treatments. It was a success last month." The joy in his voice is unmistakable.

My reaction must have been more visible than I thought because Maksim quickly hushes me with a finger to his lips. "They'll be sharing the news soon," he whispers, a shared secret between us now.

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