His Lips

Epilogue

*6 years later*

I chewed on my nails anxiously, scanning the house for anything left unclean. It was spotless but I still couldn't help but worry. I had never been a nail biter before but after the chaotic past two years I'd had, I began to be.

I turned to Carter, "Everything's ready, right? You hid the liquor?"

Carter rolled his eyes as he marched over to me, wrapping an arm around my waist, "Yes, Phoenix, everything is perfect, I promise."

I nodded as Carter leaned in to give me a peck on the cheek.

We stood like that for a moment; my back to his front, his head resting on my shoulder. I asked timidly, "Are we ready for this, Carter?"

Carter scoffed, spinning me around to look at him. After 6 years of knowing this man, he could still make my heart flutter like a teenage girl on her first date. He stared at me with his beautiful, warm brown eyes that began making an appearance full-time 4 years ago when he finally took out his fake contacts.

Other than his eye color, Carter hadn't changed much. Perhaps, his shoulders were a bit broader and a few new wrinkles had appeared on his face (but I wouldn't dare ever tell him that.) We had been through so much together, it wasn't a surprise that he had aged a bit faster. He was only 27 years old though and had the ability to swoon any woman in his building.

Yes, his building. Carter had taken over his dad's company shortly after he graduated college 5 years ago. The company has flourished at his arrival and was simply, better than ever. He had to work long hours sometimes but I couldn't say I hated his job, for it brought in an insanely large sum of money that I was eternally thankful for.

Carter gave my shoulders a light squeeze, speaking to me gently, "We're ready for this, Phoenix. Hell, we've been ready for this for a long time now and it's finally happening! I know you're scared, I'm equally just as scared but I know for sure, this is the best decision we've ever made. It's all going to be okay now."

I licked my lips and nodded, "Yeah...yeah, you're right."

I couldn't help but to have my doubts; this was truly the biggest decision I (well, Carter and I) had ever made. It was life-changing, nothing would ever be the same after this. On one hand, I was thrilled out of my mind but on the other hand I was so petrified that I just wanted to pack up and leave the country right this second. But I knew I couldn't do that; I couldn't do that to Carter, my family, my friends...them. It was still a passing thought though.

Suddenly, the door bell sounded announcing the arrival of our first guests. I turned toward Carter with a smile, as we walked toward our front door.

I swung it open to see Kylie, Samuel and their two adorable kids-- Micah and Lily. Kylie and Samuel had married 5 years ago. Soon after, Micah whom was now 3 years old popped out and then Lily whom was a year and a half years old now.

I squealed, "Oh my god, you made it!"

Kylie gave a light laugh, "Well, of course, I wouldn't miss this for the world."

I wrapped her up in a tight hug as Carter and Samuel shook hands. I pulled out of the hug to lean down to Micah's level and smile at him, "Hi, Micah." Micah just stared at me as he hid behind Kylie; he was extremely shy, it was adorable.

I ruffled his dark brown hair and moved on to Lily whom was clung to her daddy's side. She could walk but not very well, so they carried her a lot. I wrapped my index finger around her tiny hand and exclaimed, "Hi, baby. You're so cute, yes you are." She was dressed in a light pink dress and had a purple bow in her hair. I couldn't wait to dress up my kids as adorably as they did.