Healing the Disguised Heir – Extended Epilogue


OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!

Grab my new series, "Western Hearts United", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!




Five Years Later

The early morning sun cast a warm glow over the sprawling ranch, painting the fields in shades of gold and green. The air was filled with the scent of fresh hay and wildflowers, a reminder of the rich, fertile land they now called home. Deacon stood at the edge of the barn, leaning on the fence as he watched his son, little Chauncey, toddle after a flock of chickens, his laughter echoing through the crisp morning air.

“Pa! Pa, look!” Chauncey called out, waving a tiny wooden horse his father had whittled for him. Deacon grinned, his heart swelling with pride and contentment. He felt a soft hand slip into his, and he turned to see Ella standing beside him, her eyes sparkling with love and happiness.

“He’s getting faster every day,” Ella said, her voice filled with a mix of amusement and wonder. “I can hardly keep up with him.”

Deacon chuckled. “He’s got your spirit, that’s for sure. And your determination.” He squeezed her hand, drawing her closer. “How’s Ivy this morning?”

Ella smiled, glancing back toward the house. “She’s still in bed, but not for long. She was up late last night reading by candlelight again.”

Deacon shook his head, a fond smile playing on his lips. “That girl and her books. She’s going to be a scholar one day, mark my words.”

They stood together in comfortable silence, watching as Chauncey continued his playful chase. The ranch had become a place of joy and peace, a haven where their dreams had taken root and flourished. It was hard to believe that just five years ago, they had been living in a dilapidated shack, their future uncertain and fraught with challenges.

“Have you seen Jonah and Clara’s new baby yet?” Ella asked, breaking the silence. “I hear she’s the spitting image of Clara.”

“Not yet,” Deacon replied, a hint of excitement in his voice. “Jonah stopped by yesterday to invite us over. Said they’re naming her Hope.”

Ella’s face softened at the mention of their friends. “Hope. It’s a beautiful name. Perfect for their little miracle.”

As if on cue, the distant sound of approaching hooves reached their ears. Deacon turned to see a rider galloping toward the ranch, dust rising in the horse’s wake. His heart skipped a beat, but as the rider came into view, he recognized the familiar figure of Jonah, his wide-brimmed hat tilted against the sun.

“Speak of the devil,” Deacon murmured, a grin spreading across his face. “Looks like Jonah’s come to visit.”

Jonah pulled his horse to a stop at the fence, dismounting with ease. His eyes sparkled with the same energy and enthusiasm that had always defined him. “Morning, Deacon! Ella!” he called out, tipping his hat. “Mind if I come in?”

“Not at all,” Deacon replied, opening the gate to let him through. “We were just talking about you.”

Jonah’s grin widened. “All good things, I hope.”

Ella laughed, the sound like music to Deacon’s ears. “Always,” she said. “How’s Clara and the baby?”

Jonah’s face softened with pride and affection. “They’re both doing wonderfully. Clara’s as strong as ever, and little Hope is already a handful. Just like her mother.”

Ella and Deacon exchanged a knowing glance. They had all come a long way, their lives intertwined in ways they had never imagined. As they stood together, the sun climbing higher in the sky, it was clear that their journey was far from over. But for now, in this moment, they were exactly where they were meant to be.

The ranch house bustled with activity as the morning wore on. Ella and Clara were in the kitchen, their laughter and chatter mixing with the sounds of sizzling bacon and the clinking of dishes. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, making the house feel warm and welcoming.

“You’re looking well, Clara,” Ella remarked, pouring coffee into a mug and handing it to her friend. “Motherhood suits you.”

Clara smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Thank you, Ella. It’s been an adventure, that’s for sure. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

“Where’s Hope?” Ella asked, glancing around.

“Jonah has her,” Clara replied. “He’s been taking every opportunity to hold her. Says he wants to be the first face she sees when she opens her eyes.”

Ella chuckled. “He’s going to be a wonderful father.”

Clara’s eyes shone with pride. “He already is.”

In the parlor, Deacon and Jonah were deep in conversation, little Chauncey perched on Deacon’s knee, playing with a carved wooden horse. Jonah cradled Hope in his arms, his gaze tender and protective.

“She’s beautiful, Jonah,” Deacon said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. “You and Clara are blessed.”

Jonah nodded, his eyes never leaving his daughter. “We are. And to think, just a few years ago, I wasn’t sure what the future held. Now, I can’t imagine life any other way.”

Deacon smiled, glancing at his own son. “Funny how things turn out. We went from chasing dreams to building lives. And look at us now.”

Chauncey tugged at his father’s sleeve, his small face curious. “Pa, can I see the horses?”

Deacon ruffled his son’s hair, chuckling. “Sure thing, buddy. Let’s go see the horses.”

They made their way outside, the crisp air invigorating. The ranch was alive with the sounds of animals and the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze. Deacon watched as Chauncey ran ahead, his excitement contagious.

“He’s growing up fast,” Jonah remarked, following beside Deacon.

“Too fast,” Deacon agreed. “Sometimes I wish I could slow down time, just to enjoy these moments a little longer.”

Jonah nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I know what you mean. But we can cherish each moment, make the most of them.”

They reached the stables, where the horses greeted them with gentle nickers. Chauncey approached Daisy, the mare that had been a constant companion since the beginning, and patted her nose with awe.

“Hey there, Daisy,” Deacon said, stroking the horse’s mane. “You’ve been with us through thick and thin, haven’t you, girl?”

Jonah leaned against the stable door, watching the scene with a smile. “You know, Deacon, I think we did alright. Despite everything, we made a life worth living.”

Deacon glanced at his friend, gratitude filling his heart. “We did, Jonah. And it’s only going to get better.”

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, the sounds of laughter and life continued to fill the ranch. Ella and Clara joined them at the stables, Clara holding Hope close while Ella guided Chauncey through brushing Daisy’s coat.

“We’ve come a long way,” Clara said softly, her eyes meeting Ella’s. “And we have so much to look forward to.”

Ella nodded, her heart full. “Yes, we do. Together.”

The future stretched out before them, bright and full of promise. And in that moment, surrounded by their loved ones, they knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them as they always had—together, with love and determination.

The afternoon sun bathed the ranch in a warm, golden light as the group gathered on the wide, wooden porch of the house. Ivy, now a young lady of sixteen, was reading aloud from one of her favorite books, her voice carrying a captivating story to the attentive listeners. Little Chauncey sat at her feet, his eyes wide with wonder, while Ella and Clara listened with serene smiles.

“Ivy, you have such a way with words,” Clara remarked when Ivy paused to turn a page. “You should think about writing your own stories one day.”

Ivy blushed, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Maybe I will. I have a few ideas, but nothing written down yet.”

Deacon, sitting next to Ella with his arm draped around her shoulders, gave Ivy an encouraging nod. “You’ve got the talent, Ivy. Don’t let it go to waste.”

Jonah, who had been entertaining little Hope with a handmade rattle, looked up with a grin. “Maybe one day, we’ll be reading Ivy Trent’s books to our children.”

Ivy laughed, a melodic sound that filled the air with joy. “That’s a nice thought, Jonah. Maybe one day.”

The front door creaked open, and Chauncey Hayes, Deacon’s father, stepped out onto the porch. His presence commanded respect, yet his eyes held a warmth that spoke of his deep affection for his family.

“What’s all this talk about books and stories?” Chauncey asked, his voice rich with curiosity.

“Ivy’s been reading to us, Pa,” Deacon explained. “And we were just saying she might write her own stories one day.”

Chauncey nodded, his eyes twinkling. “I wouldn’t be surprised. This family is full of surprises and talent.”

He took a seat beside Deacon, and for a moment, they all sat in comfortable silence, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the ranch. The rustling leaves, the distant calls of animals, and the soft murmur of the creek created a symphony of nature that was both calming and invigorating.

Ella turned to Chauncey, a thoughtful look on her face. “Mr. Hayes, have you ever thought about staying here with us permanently? There’s plenty of room, and we would love to have you.”

Chauncey smiled, the lines on his face softening. “I’ve thought about it, Ella. And I must say, the idea is more appealing every day. I’ve been traveling for so long, but this place—this family—feels like home.”

Deacon’s heart swelled with gratitude and love. He reached out, placing a hand on his father’s shoulder. “We’d love to have you here, Pa. It would mean the world to us.”

Chauncey nodded, his voice thick with emotion. “Then it’s settled. I’ll stay.”

The decision brought a collective cheer from everyone on the porch, and Ivy jumped up, her book forgotten for the moment. “This calls for a celebration!”

Clara laughed, cradling Hope in her arms. “I agree! Let’s make tonight special. A big family dinner, with all the trimmings.”

Ella stood, her eyes bright with excitement. “I’ll start preparing. Ivy, would you help me?”

“Of course,” Ivy replied, her face glowing with happiness.

As the women bustled into the house, Deacon and Jonah exchanged a look of deep satisfaction. The journey that had brought them all to this point had been filled with trials and triumphs, but in the end, it had led them to a place of peace and joy.

“We’re truly blessed,” Jonah said quietly, his gaze following Clara and Hope.

Deacon nodded, his heart full. “Yes, we are. And I wouldn’t change a thing.”

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the ranch, the promise of a bright future filled their hearts. They had faced the challenges of the past together, and now, they would embrace the future with the same unwavering spirit and love.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting the ranch in a soft, twilight glow. Lanterns flickered to life around the house, their warm light creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The aroma of roasted chicken, fresh bread, and savory vegetables wafted from the kitchen, mingling with the laughter and chatter of the gathered family.

Deacon stood at the head of the long dining table, looking out at the faces of those he loved most. Ella sat to his right, her eyes shining with happiness. Chauncey and Ivy were on his left, deep in conversation about Ivy’s latest literary endeavor. Jonah and Clara, with little Hope in Clara’s arms, sat across from him, their expressions mirroring the contentment that filled the room.

“Alright, everyone,” Deacon began, raising his glass. “I’d like to propose a toast. To family, to love, and to the home we’ve built together. May we continue to find joy in each other’s company and face whatever comes our way with the same strength and unity that brought us here.”

“Hear, hear!” Jonah echoed, lifting his glass.

They clinked their glasses together, the sound ringing out like a bell, signifying the start of the meal. As they began to eat, the conversation flowed easily, filled with stories, jokes, and plans for the future.

Ella leaned in close to Deacon, her voice soft and intimate. “This is perfect, Deacon. Everything I’ve ever dreamed of and more.”

He smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “It’s all because of you, Ella. You made this possible.”

As the meal continued, Ivy shared her plans for her first book, a tale inspired by their own adventures. Chauncey offered his wisdom and encouragement, while Clara and Jonah spoke of their hopes for Hope’s future and the joy she had already brought into their lives.

“She’s a little miracle,” Clara said, gazing down at her daughter. “Every day with her is a blessing.”

“She’s got her mother’s strength,” Jonah added, his eyes full of pride. “And her father’s stubbornness.”

Laughter filled the room, the sound echoing off the walls and creating a symphony of happiness. Deacon looked around, his heart swelling with a sense of fulfillment and peace. This was the life he had always wanted, surrounded by love and the promise of a bright future.

After dinner, they moved to the porch, the cool evening air a refreshing change. Chauncey and Ivy engaged in a spirited debate about her book, while Jonah and Clara walked hand in hand, Hope cradled between them.

Deacon pulled Ella close, wrapping his arm around her shoulders as they gazed out at the stars twinkling in the night sky. “Remember when we used to dream about a night like this?” he murmured.

She nodded, her head resting against his chest. “I remember. And now it’s real. We’ve come so far, Deacon.”

He kissed the top of her head, his heart full. “We have, Ella. And there’s so much more to come.”

As the night grew deeper, they all gathered around a small fire, the crackling flames casting a warm, golden light. Stories of the past mingled with dreams of the future, and the bonds of family grew stronger with each passing moment.

“Here’s to the future,” Chauncey said, lifting his glass one last time. “May it be as bright and beautiful as the love we share tonight.”

They all raised their glasses, their hearts united in hope and gratitude. The future stretched out before them, filled with endless possibilities and the promise of more love, more laughter, and more unforgettable moments.

And as the stars shone brightly above, Deacon and Ella knew that whatever the future held, they would face it together, their hearts forever intertwined in the dance of life and love.

THE END


OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!

Grab my new series, "Western Hearts United", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!




9 thoughts on “Healing the Disguised Heir – Extended Epilogue”

  1. Hello my dear readers! This comment section is dedicated to you, to freely share your thoughts on this Extended Epilogue. Cannot wait to read your comments below! 🌻

  2. Well, I truly enjoyed the book. Some times I wanted to yell at Ella or Deacon to stop interrupting when the other was trying to explain something. Mostly Ella. But also well that ends well. Then in the E E when Deacon’s dad came nothing was even mentioned that he met his grandfather for whom he was named and when everyone was sitting around the table even Hope was mentioned but not little Chauncey. So what happened to him and did his grandfather just ignore his birth???

  3. Well, it seems I left out little Chauncey’s name when talking about the first time Deacon’s dad came to visit and seems he was not there to meet his grandfather for who he was named. Then again at the table. Important part I thought. Sorry I messed up in first comment. Thank you

  4. Enjoyable story! Ella is a remarkable woman. Surprisingly she has a heart of kindness after the cruelty of the orphanage and tyrant Mr Steward. Laughed when reading about the goat rescue.
    Thank you Ms Mia Dunham

  5. Loved this book! Very well written! Loved the friends who always were there for each other! Loved the goats! But they were not mentioned in the epilogue! In five years the herd should have more than doubled!

  6. Loved this book! The characters were real with honest emotions and believable reactions as they fumbled for words to express their feelings. The personalities were a great mix of ages and stages of life. All in all, very satisfying.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *