Page 135 of The Things That Hold Us

Epilogue

3 months later

Sage Valley has been my home for 3 months now. And I wouldn't change a single thing. Charlie's Antiques has become the number one antique shop in the town, which isn't too hard considering there’s only one other, but still. It feels like a huge accomplishment.

Mr. Reeves orders his clowns once a week, and I hand deliver them to him, just like I promised.

I was nervous, at first, about such a huge change. Mainly because I was worried I wouldn't be able to feel Sam's presence anymore if I left the town where everything happened.

The town where we found love, and found loss.

But I do, feel him. Especially in my field of marigolds.

It still amazes me how the field just maintains itself. I don't have to water or fertilize any of them.

Today is the anniversary of Sam's death, and I decided I’d finally go see him. I know it's long overdue, I just haven't been able to make myself.

But now I have Logan at my side; and that’s all I need to be able to stay strong.

I’m walking through the field, looking for the perfect batch of flowers to take to him. Finally, I spot them.

I grab my scissors out of my pocket, and cut the bundle full of rich oranges, and beautiful green leaves.

As I walk back up to the house, I see Logan outside playing with Pudding.

The house still isn't perfect, but we've been working on it as we go. There’s power finally, and the toilets work, so that's all I’m worried about.

I looked at some apartments, but after I thought about it, I didn't want to live somewhere Logan wasn't.

“I got the flowers.” I announce as Pudding comes running over to me.

“Perfect, I’ll get them tied and then we’ll go.” Logan says as he kisses my temple.

I smile at him, then go sit on the steps that lead to the porch.

Looking out over the town, I don't understand how this all happened.

I never thought I’d lose my shop to a fire.

I never thought I’d move towns.

And most importantly: I never thought I’d find a love like I had with Sam again.

But every day Logan makes sure he reminds me how much he loves me. Whether it's simple gestures like massaging my feet after a long day, running a hot bath, or letting me cry in his lap.

Logan never fails me.

He comes out of the house, flowers tied with a ribbon, and smiles.

“You ready?”

“I think so.” I let out a breath, and he grabs my hand, squeezing gently.

“You’ve got this. And I’ll be right by your side.”

“Promise?” I ask, and smile up at him.

He smiles, sending butterflies to my stomach once again.

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