One of Six (Den Hollows #1)

Epilogue

EPILOGUE

BEATRICE

ONE WEEK LATER

I smile as I see my father propped up in the hospital bed with a pile of pillows that a certain nurse keeps checking, much to my delight and David's discomfort. He looks at me as she leaves. I chuckle. "One word from you and she'll be jumping into bed with you."

Two red spots appear on his cheeks. I can't help but laugh at his reaction, knowing how much he hates being the center of attention. But in that moment, as I watch him blush and look away, I feel a surge of love and gratitude for the man who is my father. A wave of affection washes over me, and I rejoice in his presence in my life. I reach out and squeeze his hand. "I don't think I've ever told you that I love you." His eyes fill with tears, so I continue, "But I do, you know. You've always tried to protect me. I see it now."

David closes his eyes and concentrates on his breathing before finally looking at me. "I asked Elisabeth to take you and run away with me. So many times. I would have done anything to protect both of you. I hope you understand that." I nod. He continues, "There were times when I had to prove to Judge that I was on his side. That's why I hurt you in the dining room after the incident with the patrol car. I was sick to my stomach. They were suspicious of me for a while."

I kiss his hand. "I don't blame you. I understand. I really do." I wince and say, "Tell me about Evelyn, please. She's up and gone. She's fine, right?"

David sighs and says, "She's been with Richard for a long time. I suspect he would have married her if Judge hadn't intervened a long time ago."

I'm shocked. "How could I not see this? I didn't suspect anything."

“If I have to guess, Evelyn will be with him."

"Do you know where?"

"Ed asked me, and I have no idea. I told him every place I could think of, but if he's running, he's already out of the country. He'll be hiding out with someone higher up the food chain. Maybe the man and woman who have copies of the plans.” His eyes drift, as if he is struggling to keep them open. "I'm tired, Bea. I'm so tired."

I stand and kiss his cheek. "Your body needs to rest. It will take time." I smile tiredly. "When you get out of here, Essex and I will take care of you. Don't worry about anything."

“Love you too, daughter,” he mumbles as he drifts off to sleep.

I grab a paper towel and wipe my tears away while I stay with him a few moments longer.

Wrapped in the arms of Essex, we stand on a sand dune, looking out over the sea to the horizon. It’s a magnificent sight. The beautiful sound of breaking waves soothes our souls as we breathe in the salty sea air. The sun begins to set, sending warmth over the water and turning the sky pink and orange.

I am more in love than ever with the man who holds me in his arms. I'm looking forward to growing with him. I smile as I turn into his arms and nestle my face in the crook of his neck. He runs his fingers through my hair and grips the back of my head while his other hand presses down on my lower back to make sure I'm as close as possible in this position. I always feel protected in his embrace. His scent soothes me like nothing else can.

His family has been nothing but kind. Maggie treats me like a daughter, but the five Redd brothers treat me like a sister. For the first time, I feel like I belong, and I can't wait for David to get out of the hospital and join us. Well, he's not moving in, but he is my father and I want to spend time with him knowing that.

I've passed Jason in town several times this week and he's ignored me, which is fine with me. An apology would have been nice, but I know that will never happen. The man is an arrogant ass.

Looking at the house, I smile as I notice three motorcycles parked outside. Jesus, Joker and Pretzel paid a visit. I hadn't heard the engines of the massive bikes they ride, but we have the crashing surf in our ears.

I look above the house and can just make out the roof of Redd WoodArt, where I will be working in the office next week. I have also signed up for sketching classes. We also have Violet's eighteenth birthday party in a few days. She's made Essex and I promise to bring the Redds with us—one in particular who seems to have distanced himself from her after the Richard situation. A busy time.

I lift my face to Essex and meet his stunning emerald green eyes. He gently brushes my hair away from my face. "I love you, Mermaid Girl." He leans in and brushes his lips against mine. I feel a surge of warmth and happiness as I wrap my arms around him, grateful for his presence in my life. With everything that is going on, his love and support means a lot to me.

"I love you too, Essex Drake Redd." I offer him a mischievous smile.

"Let's find a quiet place so you can show me how much you love me." He waggles his eyebrows.

We laugh and leave the sand dune.

Who would have thought that licking Popsicles at the grocery store would have such a positive impact on my life?

THE END

I hope you enjoyed Essex and Beatrice, and look forward to Ridge Redds story in book two, Two of Six coming in 2025!