His Demands: EPILOGUE I

Almost seven months later…

Sitting across from Barb at a cozy lunch spot, I can’t help but chuckle at her exaggerated eye roll. ‘I told you, Julie, stop reading those articles. They’re just going to freak you out more,’ she says, sipping her tea.

I rest a hand on my significantly rounded belly, feeling a little kick from one of the twins. ‘I know, I know,’ I reply, trying to find a comfortable position in my chair for the hundredth time. ‘But it’s hard not to worry. Especially with two of them in there.’

Barb shakes her head, smiling. ‘You’re doing great, sweetie. You’ve only got three weeks left. You’re almost at the finish line.’

I nod, taking a bite of my salad. ‘It’s just… everything feels so real now. It’s not just me anymore; it’s these two little lives as well.’ I pause, feeling another kick, stronger this time. ‘They’re quite the soccer players already.’

Barb laughs, her eyes twinkling with affection. ‘They’re going to keep you on your toes, that’s for sure.’

Barb’s expression turns more serious and the conversation shifts. ‘How have you been doing, really? I know it’s been a while, but still. That was serious trauma you went through.’

I meet her gaze, appreciating her concern. ‘Honestly, I’m okay. It was terrifying, and there were moments I wasn’t sure I’d make it out. But I did. And I think it’s made me stronger.’ I pause, my hand instinctively moving to my belly again. ‘I had to be strong, for them.’

Barb reaches across the table, covering my hand with hers. ‘You’re one of the toughest people I know. I’m just glad you’re safe, and these little ones, too.’

Barb smiles but a concerned expression still shadows her face. ‘And your father? Please tell me he’s staying away from you.”

I pause for a moment, the memory of my father’s betrayal still raw. ‘He’s recovered from the gunshot wound, as far as I know,’ I say, trying to keep my tone neutral. ‘But thankfully, he hasn’t tried to contact me since. I hope he finally gets it that he needs to stay out of my life for good, that he cannot be a part of it.

Barb reaches across the table again, giving my hand a reassuring squeeze. ‘I’m glad he’s leaving you alone. You don’t need that kind of drama in your life, especially with two little ones on the way.’

I smile, feeling a warmth spread through me. It’s not just the pregnancy glow; it’s the love and support I’ve received from the people closest to me, especially Barb. She’s been a rock through all the ups and downs.

‘I couldn’t have done it without you, Aunt Barb. You’ve been there for me through everything. I don’t know what I’d do without you,’ I say, my voice thick with emotion.

Barb gives my hand another gentle squeeze. ‘You’re family, Julie. And family sticks together, no matter what. Now, let’s talk about something happier. Have you and Ivan decided on names yet?’

I laugh, glad for the change in topic. ‘Oh, you know Ivan. He’s got a list of names a mile long. I think we’re down to the final ten though.’

Barb raises an eyebrow. ‘Only ten? You’re going to have to start making some decisions soon, mama.’

I nod, my heart full of excitement and love for the lives growing inside me, and the future that awaits us. ‘We will. This is going to be one hell of an adventure.’

Waddling back to the office, I can’t help but smile at the beautiful Manhattan day unfolding around me. Ivan always insists on having the driver take me everywhere, but I’m stubborn, always have been. I enjoy these short walks, the independence they offer, and let’s be honest, at this point, I need all the exercise I can get.

The city is bustling, the sounds and sights a familiar comfort. People rush past, absorbed in their own worlds, and I feel a sense of contentment as I take my time, moving at my own pace. The sun is warm on my face, a gentle breeze plays with my hair, and I feel so grateful for this moment.

As I slowly make my way, I think about everything that’s happened. The kidnapping seems like a lifetime ago, a dark chapter that’s been closed, allowing Ivan and me to focus on the brighter future ahead. I rub my belly, smiling at the thought of meeting our twins. Life is going to change dramatically, but I’m ready for it—more than ready.

I think about Ivan, how much he’s changed since we first met. He’s more open, more vulnerable, and in turn, our relationship has deepened in ways I never expected. He’s going to be an amazing father, and I can’t wait to see him with our twins.

I pass by a small park and watch the children play, their laughter ringing through the air. It’s a sound I’m looking forward to hearing in my own home soon. I imagine Ivan and me taking our twins here, pushing them on the swings, watching them explore the world with wide, curious eyes.

My phone buzzes in my bag, and I pull it out to see a message from Ivan. It’s a simple I love you, but it brings a wide smile to my face. I quickly type back a response, telling him I love him too, and that I’m on my way back to the office.

I continue to take in the hustle and bustle of the city, feeling a profound sense of belonging. This city, with all its chaos and beauty, is where I’ve found love, where I’ve built my life, and where I’m about to start my family.

I reach the office building, a little out of breath but feeling good. The doorman greets me with a friendly smile, and I return it, feeling a surge of happiness.

Stepping into the Goodacre Cares office, nestled on the fourth floor of Ivan’s building, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride. It’s still a small operation—just me and a few dedicated employees—but it’s mine, and it’s making a difference.

As I waddle through the office, I’m greeted by the familiar faces of my team. There’s Shannon, our outreach coordinator, always buzzing with energy and ideas. ‘Morning, Julie! The new pamphlets came in. They look fantastic!’ she exclaims, waving a colorful brochure at me.

‘That’s great, Shannon! Let’s make sure they get distributed to all the local shelters by the end of the week,’ I reply, thrilled at the progress we’re making.

Then there’s Alex, the quiet but brilliant finance guy who’s been a godsend for keeping our accounts and grants in order. ‘Hey, Julie, did you see the email about the grant approval? We got it!’ he says, a rare smile spreading across his face.

I clap my hands together in excitement. ‘That’s amazing news! That grant will help fund our next workshop series. Great work on that application!’

As I continue toward my office, I pass by Mia, our volunteer coordinator, who’s deep in conversation on the phone. She gives me a thumbs up, signaling that the volunteer training session is all set.

Finally reaching my office, I settle into my chair with a little effort, courtesy of my expanding belly. I gaze out the window at the sprawling city below, my hand resting on my stomach, feeling the gentle kicks of our twins. It’s moments like these that I take a second to reflect on how far I’ve come.

Starting Goodacre Cares has been a dream come true. It’s my way of giving back, of using my experiences to help others find their way out of darkness. And with each day, each small victory, I feel like we’re making a real difference.

I smile, a deep sense of contentment washing over me. Despite everything we’ve been through, the challenges and the fears, I know this is where I’m meant to be. Building a better future, not just for myself and my family, but for all those who come through the doors of Goodacre Cares, seeking help and hope.

With a deep breath, I turn back to my desk, ready to dive into the day’s work. There’s a stack of papers in my inbox filled with future marketing ideas and potential workshops as well as plenty of emails to respond to. The work never stops, but neither does the passion and drive that fuels it.

Settling into my office chair, I’m ready to dive into the afternoon workload. Just as I open my laptop, a sudden sensation stops me in my tracks. It’s subtle at first, a mere whisper of discomfort. But then it comes again, unmistakable this time. My water has broken. My heart leaps with a mix of excitement and nerves. This is it. It’s happening. The twins are coming.

Trying to stay calm, I pick up my phone and text Ivan.

Hey, it’s time.

Ivan’s reaction is instant. In what feels like mere seconds, he bursts into my office, his face a picture of excitement and concern. ‘We need to get you to the hospital,’ he says, pulling me to my feet.

‘Ivan! Slow down,’ I protest playfully, even though I secretly love his protective nature.

He rushes me to the elevator, practically vibrating with excitement, his eyes shining with the thrill of the moment. But beneath that excitement, I can sense his worry. ‘They’re a bit early,’ he murmurs, more to himself than to me.

I squeeze his hand reassuringly. ‘Remember the doctor said twins usually do come early. And it’s only three weeks,’ I say, smiling through another contraction.

He looks at me, a mixture of awe and love in his eyes. ‘You’re incredible,’ he says, his voice filled with emotion.

After we get into the elevator, I lean against Ivan, drawing comfort from his presence. This is a moment we’ve been waiting for, the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. The journey hasn’t been easy, but here we are, together, about to welcome our twins into the world.

The contraction passes, and I take a deep breath, bracing myself for the next one. Ivan holds me close, his warmth and strength a constant reassurance. I can’t help but think about how much our lives are about to change, how these two little beings are going to bring so much joy along with chaos into our world.

As the elevator glides upward, a sense of confusion washes over me. ‘Ivan, aren’t we going to the hospital? Why are we going up?’ I ask, my brows furrowing in puzzlement.

Ivan’s eyes twinkle with that sly, mischievous look I’ve come to adore. ‘You really think I’m going to let you sit through Manhattan traffic while you’re in labor?’ he says, his voice filled with a mix of humor and seriousness.

I’m about to protest but my words are cut off as the elevator doors slide open, revealing the rooftop. My eyes widen in shock and disbelief. There, right in front of us, is a private helicopter, its blades slowly spinning, ready for takeoff.

Ivan helps me out of the elevator, a proud smile playing on his lips. ‘I’ve had this helicopter on standby for the past couple of weeks, just in case,’ he explains, his voice filled with eagerness.

I can’t help but laugh, a sound that’s half disbelief, half sheer joy. ‘You’re insane,’ I say, still giggling. ‘This is so incredibly over the top.’

He grins back at me as he helps me into the helicopter. ‘Maybe so, but I want the best for you and our babies. Plus, I couldn’t resist making a grand entrance to parenthood.’

The pilot greets us warmly, and within moments, we’re strapped in and lifting into the sky. The city spreads out below us, a vast tapestry of buildings and streets, shrinking as we rise higher and higher.

Looking out the window, I’m struck by the beauty of the city from this vantage point. It’s a view I’ve never seen before, and it takes my breath away. The contractions are coming stronger now, but the excitement of the moment makes them more bearable.

Ivan takes my hand, squeezing it gently. ‘You’re doing great,’ he says as I concentrate on my breathing, his voice reassuring. ‘We’ll be at the hospital in no time.’

I turn to him, my heart swelling with love. ‘This is so crazy. You and your surprises,’ I say, my voice soft with affection.

He leans over and kisses me, a gentle, loving kiss that speaks volumes. ‘I’ll always do whatever it takes for you and our children,’ he whispers against my lips. ‘You’re my world, Julie.’

As we fly over the city, heading toward the hospital, I lean back in my seat. Oddly, I am feeling a sense of peace and contentment, despite the fact that I am in labor about to give birth to twins. Ivan’s love and dedication are evident in every action he takes, every word he speaks. I know, without a doubt, that he’ll be an incredible father, just as he’s been an incredible husband.