Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem novel Chapter 1253

“Life hasn’t always been easy for me,” Elysia said softly, running her fingers through Elijah’s hair. “I’ve had my share of tough breaks. But these years in the mountains with you, Elliot, Evan, and Emmett? I’ve been really happy.”

Elijah looked troubled, his lips moving like he wanted to say something, but no sound came out.

“I know the cabin isn’t exactly a five-star hotel,” Elysia continued, smiling, “but we have each other. That’s what matters most. So, Elijah, don’t get all sad thinking your mom’s had it rough, okay?”

She cupped his cheek, her touch gentle. “But I have to say, it means the world to me that you care so much. It makes me feel even luckier.”

Elijah was always the quietest of her boys, a little more reserved than Elliot, Evan, or Emmett. Still, he leaned into her touch, almost like he was soaking up her warmth.

Elysia pulled him in for a hug. “I love you, Elijah.”

He hugged her back, patting her shoulder like a tiny grown-up. “Love you too, Mom.”

Her heart swelled, and it took her a moment to steady herself before she smiled again. “We’ve got another early morning hike tomorrow, so let’s get some sleep, alright?”

Elijah nodded, climbed into bed, and snuggled under the patchwork quilt. “Goodnight, Mom.”

“Goodnight, sweetheart.”

She tucked the blanket around him, making sure he was warm, then left for her own room.

Tarquin was already lying in bed, the lamp casting a soft glow over the room. Their baby daughter was asleep in her crib, cheeks rosy and peaceful.

Tarquin lifted the covers in invitation. “You took your time.”

She grinned, tears sparkling in her eyes. “But I got lucky. The boys are sweet, loving—total angels. Every time I look at them, I know I made the right choice. We’ve been through so much, and somehow, we ended up together. My life feels complete.”

Tarquin tightened his embrace, resting his chin on her head. “I know I let you down back then. The pain you’ve gone through, the tough times—it was all because of me.”

Elysia didn’t argue. Instead, she looked up at him, her voice steady. “But this happiness? It’s because of you, too. I’m telling you this to share my gratitude, not to make you feel guilty.”

He understood, pressing a kiss to her hair. “We’re going to keep being happy. Happier every single day.”

She smiled, snuggling closer. “Yeah. We will. I know it.”

Wrapped in each other’s arms, listening to the steady rhythm of their hearts, they drifted off to sleep.