He places his cup down, bends to one knee, and removes a box from his pocket.
“We men of the Clan have lived a thousand lives,” he says, his voice husky with emotion. “And I’d like to ask you, Maeve. To live my next… as my wife.”
She covers her mouth with her hands, and her eyes go straight to Keenan. She’s maybe worried about his reaction, but I know my husband. He’ll give them his blessing. He grins.
“Go on, then,” Keenan says. “He’s already asked and I’ve already said yes. Now it’s your turn.”
Everyone laughs, then the room goes quiet as she whispers, “Yes. I’d be honored to.”
Cheers erupt around us. The children dance and sing. Keenan turns to me and hugs me, holding me to him. And as the fire burns in the hearth, I watch Malachy slip the ring on Maeve’s finger, and I give thanks. For this beautiful moment. My family, every one of them, safe under this roof. For a family that grows and flourishes.
I look to the candles flickering on the mantle, my heart filled with hope.
We’re on the verge of a new year of infinite possibilities.
New dreams.
New beginnings.