Page 78 of Madness

I nod, too choked up to speak. Instead, I pull them all into a group hug, my cap going askew in the process.

We head to the car, Roman chattering excitedly about his ice cream plans, and Shannon and Dakota discuss dinner options. As we walk, Dakota leans in close to me.

"I have a surprise for you later," he whispers. "Let's just say, I think it's time we made this family official. If you'll have me, that is."

My heart skips a beat as I realize what he's implying. I squeeze his hand, a silent yes.

Our story isn't over. In many ways, it feels like it's just beginning. But whatever comes next, I know we'll face it together - me, Dakota, Roman, and Shannon supporting us from wherever she is. Our little family, stronger than ever.

Standing here, with my nursing degree in hand and my favorite people by my side, I know one thing for certain: This is our happily ever after. It's not perfect, but it's real, it's ours, and it's better than anything I could have dreamed.

EPILOGUE 2

I WAS MADE FOR LOVIN’ YOU

Dakota

The house is quiet as I slip out of bed, careful not to wake Lauren. She's exhausted from the excitement of graduation, but I can't sleep. My heart is racing with anticipation.

In the kitchen, I pull out the small velvet box I've been hiding for weeks. The ring inside catches the moonlight, and I can't help but smile. It's time.

My mind drifts back to earlier today, before the graduation ceremony...

"So, what do you think?" I asked, showing the ring to Shannon.

Her eyes widened, a grin spreading across her face. "Dakota, it's beautiful. She's going to love it."

"You think she'll say yes?"

Shannon laughed, punching my arm lightly. "Are you kidding? Of course, she will. You two are perfect for each other."

I nodded, trying to quell the butterflies in my stomach. "There's one more person I need to ask."

We found Roman in the living room, engrossed in a video. I knelt beside him, my heart pounding.

"Hey, buddy. Can I ask you something important?"

Roman paused his video, looking at me curiously. "What is it?"

I took a deep breath. "Roman, you know I love you and your mom very much, right?"

He nodded.

"Well, I was wondering... how would you feel if I asked your mom to marry me? If I became your dad officially?"

Roman's eyes widened. For a moment, he was quiet, and I felt my heart stop. Then, he launched himself at me, wrapping his arms around my neck.

"Really? You want to be my dad?"

I hugged him back, feeling tears well in my eyes. "More than anything, buddy."

"Then yes!" Roman exclaimed. "You have to ask her, Dad!"

Dad. The word filled me with joy every time I heard it.

Now, as I stand in the moonlit kitchen, those moments give me strength. I head back to the bedroom, ring in hand, ready to start the next chapter of our lives.

Lauren is just stirring as I enter. She blinks sleepily, a soft smile on her face. "Dakota? What's going on?"

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